On July 31, 2026, Animal Care of Davis County and Layton City Police raided a residential property in Layton, Utah suspected of running an illegal cockfighting operation. The birds discovered there are victims of a violent crime — kept, conditioned, and forced to fight against their will.

Now, a veterinarian has recommended they all be "humanely euthanized," according to Animal Care of Davis County. These birds suffered enough. Euthanizing them means abusers took their lives, and the system took their future.

Cockfighting is a felony in Utah, a recognition that it inflicts serious suffering on animals. But if the response to rescuing victims of animal cruelty is to end their lives, we have only traded one form of harm for another.

Licensed bird sanctuaries and animal rescue organizations have experience rehabilitating roosters from fighting operations. Before any bird is euthanized, Animal Care of Davis County should exhaust every alternative — working with avian specialists and sanctuaries experienced with fighting birds to assess whether these animals can be safely rehomed.

These birds didn't choose this life. They deserve a chance at one.

Sign this petition to urge Animal Care of Davis County Director Michelle Hicks to pause euthanization and work with licensed sanctuaries before making any final decision on the fate of these birds.