NEW YORK (1010 WINS/WCBS 880) – The Monmouth County SPCA found eight dogs with scabs and scars at a New Jersey home, suspected of being used in a dog fighting ring.
On Feb. 3, Neptune Township police got an anonymous call about animals in distress on Embury Avenue.
The MCSPCA Humane Law Enforcement arrived at the scene and found a “concrete path with fresh blood” that led to the backyard with a garage where barking dogs were heard and found inside the locked structure.
There were six dogs locked in the garage, each in its own crate filled with woodchips and covered in their own waste.
Two dogs were also found outside with heavy chains connected to dog houses. The residents of the house were not cooperative and one was arrested, according to the release.
The dogs found had scabs and scarring on their bodies and punctures to their ears and mouth, according to MCSPCA.
“We can only assume that some of the dogs were being used as "bait dogs" in the alleged dog fighting ring,” the MCSPCA said.
The Monmouth County Forensic Unit gathered syringes, IV bags, unknown drugs including what MCSPCA thinks are animal steroids, two dog treadmills, and more items.
"Our Humane Law Enforcement Division, along with Neptune Township Police Department, and the Monmouth County Forensics unit worked late into the night to investigate this horrific scene and get the eight dogs to safety,” MCSPCA Executive Director, Ross Licitra said. “All of the dogs are being cared for by our compassionate staff and can finally be free of fear and pain.”
The MCSPCA is now seeking donations and have set up a link for those who would like to help.
An investigation is ongoing.