2 more fighting ring dogs saved

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) - The Humane Society of Kent County will get full custody of two additional dogs linked to a dogfighting ring on the east side of the state.

About 50 dogs were seized June 17, 2009 in Bad Axe when authorities filed dogfighting charges against three men. The dogs, mostly pit bulls, were temporarily placed at kennels in Kent, Ingham and Lenawee counties. Some died.

The Humane Society of Kent County was given ownership of 11 dogs in March.

A U.S. district court entered an order Thursday giving the shelter two more dogs -- named Violet and Pacino. These two dogs were believed to be "champion fighting dogs." However, officials were unable to provide documentation that showed they had been used or trained for fighting.

"We believe it was a case of mistaken identity," Karen Terpstra, executive director at the Humane Society of Kent County, said in a news release. "We don't think the two dogs in question were ever fought, let alone 'champion fighting dogs.' Both were less than 6 months old when we got them and they did not have any scarring or aggression issues.

"We are so happy with the outcome of this case," continued Terpstra. "We are especially thankful to Varnum LLP for their skillful representation of us on behalf of the dogs and to Judge Lawson for his fairness. We also appreciate the USDA and U.S. Attorney working with us to resolve this issue favorably."

The Humane Society is accepting adoption applications for all of the dogs. They will be spayed and neutered, and potential adopters and foster families will be made aware of the dogs' history. The humane society will also conduct extensive interview and background checks to ensure proper placement.

"We continue to work with the dogs to ensure they are ready for adoption and are working to find the perfect match for both dog and owner," explained Terpstra. "We will not place a dog in the community that we feel is unsafe."

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Humane Society of Kent County:

(616) 453-8900

3077 Wilson NW in Grand Rapids

www.hskc.org