The Los Angeles Department of Animal Care and Control reminds residents that dog fighters can be charged with a felony in the state of California, carrying stiff prison terms and large fines. Their property can be seized and spectators at an organized fight can be hauled off to jail as well.

Anyone who has seen the results of a dog made to fight knows all too well the scarring, both inside and out, that becomes a permanent part of the dog’s body and soul.  Often times, there will be only one dog that walks, or limps, away from a fight.

Don’t miss a thing. Get breaking news alerts delivered right to your inbox

The County maintains a Dog Fighting Tip Line provided by the County of Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office, with funding provided by the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) and Found Animals Foundation (www.foundanimals.org). The Tip Line phone number is (877) NO2FITE or (877) 662-3483.

“The tip line is available 24/7 and reports can be made anonymously,” said Marcia Mayeda, Director for the County of Los Angeles Department of Animal Care and Control. “It is important for the public to understand that, in addition to the barbaric activity of dog fighting, weapons, drugs, gambling and alcohol consumption are often associated with dog fighting. Please use the Tip Line to report this activity and refrain from getting involved,” said Mayeda