Virginia Dogfighting
What YOU can do about dogfighting in Virginia
You can’t be a pet lover and not be repulsed and angered by the Michael Vick / Surry County Dogfighting Case.
We’ve received several emails from fellow-pet lovers commenting on the Vick Dogfighting indictment—asking what they can do to see that justice is served and how to help put an end to dogfighting in Virginia.
We’ve compiled a list of suggestions on how you can help:
1. Educate yourself
Read the indictment (CAUTION: Graphic content).
Learn more about dogfighting from the Humane Society of the United States and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
Review the State of Virginia Dogfighting Statue and compare it with other states.
Keep up with the latest news.
2. Thank the Virginia Animal Control Association, VACA.
The VACA has been instrumental in this case. Send them an email and thank them for their hard work.
Kevin
Kilgore, President, VACA
Kathy Strouse, VP, VACA
3. Contact your local representatives
Write Governor Tim Kaine, your State Senator and Delegate. Tell them what you think. Find out what their plans are for combating this blood-sport and ask them to support an increase in penalties. Tell them what you'd like to see changed and ask them for their help.
If you're not sure who your local legislators are, you can find their names and contact info here.
4. Contact your local law enforcement officials
Write your local law enforcement officials and urge them to bring felony charges in this case.
Robert F. McDonnell, Attorney General
State of Virginia
Gerald Poindexter, Surry County Commonwealth
Attorney
Harold D. Brown, Surry County Sheriff
5. Write letters to the editors of local newspapers
Write a letter to the editor of of your local newspaper. Let readers know what you want to see happen in Surry County and what your concerns are about dogfighting in all areas of Virginia.
Sussez-Surry Dispatch
Richmond Times-Dispatch
Write to newspapers in your area. Call the paper and ask the email address for “Letters to the Editor”.
6. Contact your local Dog Pound and Animal Control Office
Contact the public pound and Animal Control Office in your area. Ask them to photograph and identify all animals showing signs of being involved in fighting.
7. Contact the NFL
Email Roger Goodell, NFL Commissioner.
8. Contact NIKE®
Mark G. Parker, President NIKE
503-671-6453
#1 Bowerman Drive
Beaverton, OR 97005-6453
9. Make a statement
Show up and make a statement at the U.S. Courthouse in Richmond at the arraignment (Thursday, July 26th) and preceding court dates.
10. Get more involved!
Contact Pet & Animal Advocacy & Welfare Groups and ask what you can do to help!
