In the past several months, we have experienced an epidemic of breed bans in West Tennessee. The most recent ban passed in Selmer, Tennessee on May 13, 2008. It is significant to note that Selmer's ban was proposed and passed primarily due to the dog fighting problem within the city limits. Even more disturbing, we have heard through various contacts that dog fighting is rampant in West Tennessee.

Do not be decieved, however, dog fighting IS NOT isolated to West Tennessee.  Dog fighting is a crime that is taking place all across the United States...from the backwoods to the big city.  It is much more prevalent than you suspect, and in many cases, it is going on right under our noses. 

THIS MUST STOP NOW.

Good owners, innocent dogs and entire communities are at risk because there are "human beings" among us who not only take pleasure in watching two animals tear each other apart, but who also PROFIT from it. Let's not forget that individuals who participate in dog fighting are typically participating in illegal gambling, and have been linked to drug and firearms crimes. Moreover, the proclivity of participants to engage in animal cruelty and abuse is a reflection into their ability to inflict the same type of cruelty and abuse on people.

This can no longer be tolerated. Dog fighting is a crime that hurts us all. Its time to take back our communities. Its time to save the lives of innocent animals, make our communities safer and put the criminals behind bars where they belong.

Bless the Bullys and Casa Del Toro Pit Bull Rescue have collaborated in an effort to help bring attention to and stop dog fighting. But we need YOUR help. We are calling out to the law abiding citizens to help make a change for the better in their communities.

We know you want to stop dog fighting, but please remember, we are talking about a crime that can generate a great deal of money.  If you suspect someone is involved in dog fighting, inform the appropriate authorities.  PLEASE, for your own safety, do not try to take on a dog fighting ring alone.

NO FIGHT ZONE is a poster campaign designed to let you be proactive in your mission while maintaining your safety.  The goal of the campaign is to plaster every single lightpost, bulletin board, street sign, etc., in a particular area with the NO FIGHT ZONE posters which ask people to report dog fighting. The posters list a telephone number and advertise $5,000 rewards for information that lead to an arrest for dog fighting.

Imagine a community waking up, going to work and being out and about on their daily routine and seeing anti-dog fighting posters on every single corner. Imagine the impact that could have!

PLEASE NOTE - many communities having zoning ordinances with respect to hanging "advertisements."  Some don't allow them and some have specific height and placement restrictions.  Please check your local ordinances to be sure that you are following the law of your community.  If your community does prohibit the hanging of "advertisements," you can still get the word out!  Ask local business owners if you can hang the signs in their windows, tack them up on the bulletin board at your vet's office, the local pet store, grocery store, Wal-Mart, etc...

If you are intersted in organizing an anti-dog fighting effort in your community, please contact me at rescue@blessthebullys.com. We will send you the link to download the NO FIGHT ZONE flyer.  If you like, we will also spread the word so others may join you in your efforts.  

This is a really, really simple way to make a difference in your community. A couple hours of your time could change the lives of many dogs and bring about a better, safer community for animals and people alike!

Thank you to MySpace friend Laramie for her wonderful work on the poster!