In some hopeful news, 47 dogs and puppies were saved from three properties suspected of dogfighting in Chester and Lancaster counties, South Carolina. Humane World for Animals assisted the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) in the operation, alongside the Chester County Sheriff’s Office, Chester County Animal Control, and the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities executed search and seizure warrants early on November 5, uncovering scenes of unimaginable cruelty. Responders found scarred, injured, and emaciated dogs, many wagging their tails despite their suffering. Most were chained to heavy metal links, with plastic barrels or makeshift boxes serving as their only shelter.
Veterinarians confirmed that multiple dogs had infected puncture wounds consistent with dogfighting injuries. Many were severely underweight, flea-infested, and suffering from painful dental disease. On the properties, officials discovered treadmills, heavy chains, and what appeared to be a dismantled dog fighting pit, grim evidence of the abuse these animals endured.
One especially heartbreaking scene involved a starving mother dog and her three nursing puppies, who were confined in a filthy, feces-caked hutch. Though initially fearful, she quickly warmed up to the rescuers, seeking chin scratches and affection. Nearby, a limping dog strained against his chain, his swollen leg marked by recent bite wounds. Despite his pain, he still wagged his tail as he greeted his rescuers with trust.
“It’s haunting to see so many dogs—injured, covered in scars and clearly in need of veterinary attention—just stuck on the end of a heavy chain. They looked hurt and alone,” said Janell Gregory, South Carolina state director of Humane World for Animals. “It’s rewarding to see them start to wiggle and give kisses as we got them to safety. We are deeply grateful to SLED for initiating this rescue operation.”
Dogfighting is one of the most brutal forms of animal cruelty imaginable. The dogs suffer deep puncture wounds, broken bones, and severe bruising, often dying from blood loss, infection, or shock. Those who survive are forced to fight again, trapped in a cycle of violence and neglect. These operations are not just acts of animal cruelty but are often tied to other crimes involving weapons, drugs, and illegal gambling.
Dogfighting is a felony offense in the U.S., punishable by up to five years in prison for fighting, training, or transporting dogs for fighting purposes. Humane World for Animals has worked with SLED on multiple investigations this year alone, rescuing nearly 90 dogs from seven South Carolina properties since June.
These efforts are supported by South Carolina’s 2024 cost-of-care law, which requires owners of seized animals to either pay for their care or relinquish them for adoption. This law allows abused animals to begin new lives without being held in limbo for months or years as cases move through the courts. Humane World for Animals continues to champion such legislation nationwide to strengthen animal protection laws and enforcement.…