We frequently encounter bait dogs after they have been rescued or adopted. These are some of my favorite stories to tell and share. However, I believe this video is very important since it demonstrates how these dogs are discovered.

Sharing this video can help bring to light the horrible existence these dogs lead prior to being rescued, as well as why it is critical that we advocate for stronger sanctions for dog fighting worldwide.

Tom McPhee, Executive Director of the World Animal Awareness Society (WA2S) and Producer & Director of the American Strays series, accompanies Michigan Humane Society Officers as they discover fresh canines being used to “bait” fighting dogs. Follow their cameras as they document the horrible conditions these canines are forced to suffer.

Bait dogs frequently suffer from broken bones, untreated wounds, tied lips, maggots, and malnutrition.

“We react to dog fights all year,” says Jenny Jackson, one of the Michigan Humane Society Officers.

“The street combatants are youngsters, you know,” she adds. “They’re taking pit bulls and tying them up in abandoned yards and battling them in parks, and they’re just young kids fighting dogs – whatever dogs they can get.” And they are unlikely to receive adequate medical care, as well as adequate food, drink, and shelter. A lot of the time, they’ll just be forgotten.”

Fortunately for these two pit bulls, The Michigan Humane Society and WA2S were on there to help. However, there are thousands of other canines who need to be rescued.

Warning: This video has graphic content. But we promise that the story has a happy ending.