One of the most distressing terms for dog enthusiasts is “bait dog.”
But what exactly is a bait dog, and do they exist in today’s world?
As unsettling as it sounds, a bait dog is a dog utilized in training fighting dogs. These dogs are deliberately mistreated and starved to weaken them, making them vulnerable to attacks from fighting dogs. If a bait dog survives a training session, it is left with severe puncture wounds, particularly around the face, thighs, front legs, and hindquarters.
Regrettably, dog fighting is a prevailing issue in modern society, where some individuals train dogs with the intent to induce harm. Despite the illegality of this practice, it is vital to report any suspicions of such operations in your vicinity to the authorities.
Continue reading to gain more insights into bait dogs and their role.
Exploring the Role of Bait Dogs
To comprehend the concept of a bait dog, one must first grasp the world of fighting dogs.
Fighting dogs are breeds trained and bred to engage in lethal combat. While their aggression is typically not directed towards humans, they are conditioned to fight against other trained dogs in organized matches. These fights can last up to two hours, with spectators placing bets on the dogs. Tragically, the organizers profit unjustly from these cruel events.
Extensive training is provided to fighting dogs to prepare them for such contests. This is where bait dogs enter the picture, assisting in conditioning fighting dogs to ruthlessly attack other dogs during matches.
How the Process Functions
Pitting a weaker dog against a stronger, more aggressive one may seem nonsensical. However, the rationale behind using bait dogs lies in the belief that all dogs are capable of fighting under certain circumstances. By exposing the training dog to a weaker opponent, the aim is to increase their bloodlust.
At times, even the fighting dogs may not show interest in fights initially. Nonetheless, they are egged on, tormented, and subjected to high-stress environments. Through conditioning, they are compelled to fight for their survival. Trainers reinforce their aggressive behavior by offering rewards to reinforce their “killer instincts.”
Which Dog Breeds Are Utilized as Bait Dogs?
Although dog fighting is outlawed in all states, no specific breed of dog is exempt from being used as bait dogs.
There are no strict guidelines for selecting bait dogs. These animals simply need to be naturally docile or conditioned not to retaliate or defend themselves. Trainers achieve this by mistreating and starving otherwise robust and courageous dog breeds.
Preferred breeds commonly used as bait dogs include, but are not limited to, the following:
- American Pit Bull Terrier
- Bull Terrier
- Doberman
- American Bulldog
- Cane Corso
- German Shepherd
- Rottweiler
- English Mastiff
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Acquisition of Bait Dogs by Dog Fighting Organizers
Distressingly, any dog could fall victim to becoming a bait dog. This includes your own pet if it crosses paths with individuals involved in this vile practice. While some trainers purposefully breed bait dogs, others are content with acquiring dogs without spending any money.
Any dog, regardless of its temperament, can be prompted to fight back when challenged. Trainers put dogs through tests and select those that refuse to fight or underperform as bait dogs. Therefore, even a well-behaved Pit Bull could be snatched from your home and used as bait in fighting circles.
Organizers resort to various unethical means to obtain bait dogs, including posing as caring pet owners to adopt animals from shelters or responding quickly to free dog offers on platforms like Craigslist.
Dispelling the Myth: The Existence of Bait Dogs
The concept of bait dogs has sparked debates among dog enthusiasts. Despite the term being misused to evoke sympathy and shed light on mistreated animals, actual bait dogs are not a product of fiction.
While dog fighting events are usually discreet and clandestine, they indisputably transpire. In 2013, a group of individuals was apprehended for partaking in dog fighting, resulting in the rescue of numerous pit bull terriers, including bait and fighting dogs.
Similarly, in 2007, authorities rescued around 70 dogs tied to a dogfighting operation associated with prominent football figure Michael Vick. These incidents are testament to the existence of bait dogs and the gruesome practice of dog fighting.
Aftermath for Bait Dogs
Bait dogs endure physical and emotional torment. Many succumb to their injuries inflicted during training sessions. While some perish immediately due to shock, blood loss, or exhaustion, others endure slow, agonizing deaths from infections.
Surviving bait dogs may recover physically, but psychological healing is not guaranteed. Some are so emotionally scarred that they struggle to trust humans again.
Fortunately, some bait dogs get a second chance at life when adopted by caring individuals. With proper care, attention, and supervision, these animals can regain their zest for life. This also applies to fighting dogs, for they too are victims of this illicit practice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which Dogs Are Vulnerable to Being Used as Bait Dogs?
Organizers of dog fighting have no boundaries. They are willing to use any creature to goad their fighting dogs, including cats as bait. Any animal with flesh, blood, and fur is fair game. While they prefer larger or medium-sized breeds like German Shepherds and Pit Bulls, even small breeds like Chihuahuas are not exempt. In essence, all dogs are at risk of being used as bait dogs.
Can Bait Dogs Be Rescued and Rehabilitated?
Every dog is unique. While dogs with a history of enduring torment as bait dogs can be saved, rehabilitated, and placed in loving homes, a thorough assessment is crucial, especially if they are to be integrated into households with children or other pets. Consulting a qualified professional to evaluate a rescued dog aids in determining if they are emotionally stable enough to be a suitable family companion.
Why is Reporting Dog Fighting Important?
Reporting dog fighting is vital for the well-being of both bait and fighting dogs. The injuries sustained during training and actual fights are often severe, if not fatal. Furthermore, dogs involved in this illicit practice are subjected to abuse and mistreatment from an early age to condition them to behave a certain way. Those that survive often bear deep puncture wounds, broken bones, and severe bruising.
Concluding Remarks
Bait dogs are the primary victims of dog fighting, enduring various forms of abuse, both physical and emotional. Ultimately, they either succumb to their injuries or are disposed of once deemed dispensable.
Owning, keeping, or training dogs for dog fighting is a criminal offense. Additionally, being a spectator at a dog fight or allowing such activities on your premises is punishable by law, with penalties including fines and imprisonment.
Despite their adversities, bait dogs can bounce back with love and care. Timely rescue significantly improves their chances of complete physical and emotional healing.
Sources:
- https://www.humanesociety.org/dogfighting
- https://aldf.org/article/animal-fighting-facts/animal-fighting-state-laws/
- https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdal/pr/high-stakes-dog-fighters-and-gamblers-arrested-367-fighting-pit-bulls-seized
Featured Image Credit: Alexas_Fotos, Pixabay
