Dogfighting isn’t a sport or a hobby — it’s violence. It’s torture. And in too many places across the U.S., it’s still treated like a lesser crime.

Earlier this month, Massachusetts secured its first-ever federal dogfighting conviction. John D. Murphy was caught after years of abusing animals for profit. He trained dogs to kill, used live bait in conditioning videos, and bragged about his involvement online. Authorities found scarred dogs, fighting gear, and proof of long-term cruelty. But in the end, Murphy received just over a year in prison and a fine.

That’s not enough. Not for the animals who suffered. Not for the public who expects real consequences.

Dogfighting is organized cruelty — often tied to illegal gambling, trafficking, and violent crime. Yet people like Murphy continue to walk free or serve short sentences because federal laws are still too weak and inconsistent. That must change.

We’re calling on Congress to pass a national law making dogfighting a felony with mandatory prison time — no fines, no exceptions, no early releases. Offenders must face real consequences, including prison, lifetime bans from owning animals, and classification as violent criminals.

This isn’t about revenge — it’s about prevention. Until the law makes the cost of dogfighting outweigh the profit, the cruelty will continue.

Sign this petition to demand Congress finally act. Dogfighting is a violent felony, and it's time we treat it like one — everywhere, for everyone.