Summary
A BBC investigation uncovered a major dog fighting network in Europe due to an online mistake made by a dog fighting participant. The investigation, supported by animal welfare groups, revealed hidden kennels across the UK and Europe, exposing the extensive cruelty involved in the illegal activity.
Key Facts
- A mistake by a dog fighter online led the BBC to discover a large dog fighting network in Europe.
- The BBC spent six months investigating the network, which covers the UK and Europe.
- The League Against Cruel Sports (LACS) and the Ulster Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (USPCA) helped gather evidence.
- The network includes secretive dog fighting kennels in surprising places like busy housing estates and a stately home’s grounds.
- Since 2024, LACS received over 600 dog fighting reports, with a 50% increase in the last two years.
- The investigation exposed illegal activities like owning, training, and fighting dogs, as well as trading fighting animals.
