ROME, Italy—Fondazione Cave Canem and Humane World for Animals, formerly known as Humane Society International, are about to celebrate the fourth anniversary of the “Io non combatto” project, created to combat the criminal phenomenon of dogfighting in Italy. To mark the occasion, they are pleased to present a new website dedicated to the initiative, along with a series of webinars focused on the rehabilitation and adoption of dogs rescued from illegal fights.
The new landing page was developed by Filarete | Digital Agency, a Florence-based communication agency with extensive experience in designing campaigns for the non-profit sector. The site was conceived to combine the identities of both organizations in a single space, especially considering the evolution of Humane World for Animals, whose new name underscores the organization’s global mission. Special attention is given to the project’s multiple areas of intervention, offering users the chance to access multimedia content and download useful materials, stay up to date with the latest news, and register for upcoming events.
Starting today, it is possible to register for the first of four webinars scheduled from June to October, led by Mirko Zuccari, an expert dog trainer:
- 24 June. Molossers and pit bulls, beyond the myths: tools for deeper understanding and more conscious adoption—analysis of common misconceptions and the factors that influence canine behavior, for more informed and objective evaluations.
- 17 July. Genetic traits and experience: understanding the factors that influence canine behavior, with a focus on implications for preventing disorders and supporting behavioral recovery.
- September. Rehabilitation pathways for former fighting dogs: recovery and reintegration strategies—methods and approaches for rehabilitating dogs with difficult pasts, especially those involved in dogfighting.
- October. From fighting to adoption: new opportunities for molossers and bull-type terriers between rehabilitation and integration—success stories and strategies for integrating former fighting dogs into family life.
A dedicated section of the website focuses specifically on the adoption of dogs rescued from fighting rings: Shrek and Michi, who have successfully completed their rehabilitation journey with the veterinarians and dog trainers from the “Io non combatto” team, are still looking for a new family.
One of the main goals of the project, carried out in collaboration with partners such as the Carabinieri Forestali and the University of Naples Federico II, is to train all those involved in the prevention and suppression of dogfighting, which remains widespread in Italy despite being illegal and widely condemned by public opinion. Representatives from Humane World for Animals and Fondazione Cave Canem regularly take part, as instructors, in courses held at training centers of the State Police—especially those aimed at officers from the gaming and betting division. The last session was held on May 22 in Nettuno (Rome).
The two organizations have contributed to the creation of an informational handbook for mobile police units across Italy. They have also produced a guide to help citizens recognize signs of dogfighting, and a video aimed at debunking common myths about breeds that are unfairly associated with innate aggressiveness. Finally, they have developed a brochure that can be distributed in schools, including through interactive workshops in classrooms, to educate and raise awareness among younger generations about critical topics such as animal sentience, legality, and respect for all species.
As part of the “Io non combatto” initiative, an ambitious research project on the phenomenon of animal fighting has also been launched, awarding four scholarships to young graduates and university students, including two individuals incarcerated at the Secondigliano prison. The findings of Carolina Salomoni and Angela Maria Panzini, recipients of one of the four scholarships, were published in the journal “Sicurezza e Giustizia” and will be presented on June 26 at the Italian Senate.
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Download a selection of photos HERE.
