Dogfighting rings, as we report in this story, rely on a sophisticated, interstate network of breeders, just like you’d find for any other breed.

Several pit bull advocates I spoke to for this story said that NFL quarterback Michael Vick’s 2007 arrest and conviction for dogfighting was the best thing that has ever happened for dogs bred to fight. Not only did the practice get widespread attention and condemnation, but the public also saw that, when it comes to pit bulls, DNA is not destiny.

Dogfighting rings, as we report in this story, rely on a sophisticated, interstate network of breeders, just like you’d find for any other breed. “They’re creating a sub population, almost a new breed,” said Beth Wictum, who directs the Forensic Lab at UC Davis’ School of Veterinary Medicine.

Wictum’s lab is housing the nation’s first criminal dogfighting DNA database, developed along with the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the Humane Society of Missouri and the Louisiana SPCA. She says it will help law enforcement track down people who breed dogs specifically to fight, which is illegal.

You only have to look at Vick’s former dogs to see how many can be rehabilitated to lead happy, peaceful lives — a fact that’s received a great deal of media attention over the years since Vick’s arrest – despite the fact that they have been specifically bred for violence and aggression.

[ad fullwidth]

This Washington Post article describes how a US District Court judge gave Vick’s dogs a second chance by ordering them to be treated as individuals, rather than condemned as a group.

And here’s an update on some of the Vick dogs, produced by a Bay Area group called Bad Rap.

In 2009, law enforcement agents, along with the ASPCA, conducted the largest dogfighting raid in US History. The ring spanned seven states, and led to the arrests of 26 people. 500 dogs were seized, most from deplorable living conditions. These photos were taken at one of the sites, in Northwest Missouri.

Listen to Using DNA to Stop Dogfighting radio story online.

37.7667851 -122.4125425

News Daily Newsletter

The Bay

Emma’s Must-Sees

Videos from KQED Live

Donor-Advised Funds

ASPCAASPCA

Reporter's Notes: How the Michael Vick Case Was Good PR for Fighting Dogs