New Bill Introduced to Help Animal Fighting Victims

According to the ASPCA (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®), a new bill was introduced to help stop animal fighting. Reps Judy Chu (D-CA) and John Katko (R-NY) reintroduced the Help Extract Animals from Red Tape (HEART) Act into the House on March 19.

This bill would help reduce the red tape that leaves animal-fighting victims in limbo. The reintroduced bill includes legal language to extend federal efforts to combat animal fighting and helps provides costs for those affected.

“I’m proud to be reintroducing the HEART Act with Rep. John Katko to ensure that victims of animal fighting are able to receive the care and rehabilitation that they deserve,” said Rep. Chu. “When terrible dog fighting rings are broken up, trials and legal proceedings can take months or years, during which rescued dogs must be cared for by the government.”

Right now, when animals are seized in dogfighting busts, they sit in shelters for long periods of time as cases make their way through the court systems. Animal welfare agencies provide care for these animals but the long-term effects can include behavioral issues and extreme stress. Because of prolonged stays in shelters and associated behaviors, these animals are often overlooked for adoption.

“Animal fighting is a horrific ‘blood-sport’ in which innocent victims are forced to train, fight and suffer for the debased entertainment and profit of spectators,” said Richard Patch, vice president of federal affairs for the ASPCA in a statement. “Animals rescued in federal animal fighting cases have suffered enough at the hands of their abusers, and the red tape of the forfeiture system should not be a barrier to their eventual adoption. The ASPCA is grateful to Representatives Chu and Katko for their continued leadership in championing the HEART Act to streamline the process to give these victims of cruelty the chance they deserve to find safe and loving homes.”

Read more about animal legislation in the United States, including the ban on fur in Massachusetts and the Big Cat Public Safety Act.

Sign this petition to encourage Congress to pass the HEART Act!

Related Content:

• 10 Amazing Stories of Dogs Rescued from Dog Fighting Rings
• Saved From a Dog Fighting Ring, Cadence the Pit Bull Gets a Second Chance at Life
• Cat Rescued After Escaping from Dogfighting Ring
• This Sweet Dog Was Used as ‘Bait’ to Train Fighting Dogs – But He Never Gave Up Loving People
• 10 Ways You Can Help End Dog Fighting
• This Little Puppy Might Have Been Used for Dog Fighting, But Now She’s Got a Whole New Life

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