DETROIT (WWJ) -- Nearly a dozen dogs are recovering under the care of the Michigan Humane Society after being rescued from a suspected dog fighting operation.
A Humane Society spokesperson says two search warrants were executed at a property on Detroit's east side, near Conant Street and 7 Mile Road, Wednesday afternoon, after a tip from a concerned citizen.
The Humane Society removed 11 dogs and found dog fighting paraphernalia at the location. A combined 60 lbs. of tow chain was used to secure just two of the dogs in place, according to the MHS.
The dogs were taken to shelters to be evaluated and taken care of by the Humane Society.
"Dog fighting is a more common activity than many people realize and takes place not only in urban areas, but rural as well," MHS vice president of field services Andy Seltz said in a statement. "We’re incredibly proud to have been able to remove these dogs from this horrific situation and thankful to the community member who initially called us out of concern for these animals."
Officials did not disclose the health of the dogs. It was unclear if any arrests were made or if police had any suspects.
With the passage of Senate Bill 416 in January of this year and its incorporation into the Michigan Compiled Law (750.49), the dogs will be eligible for evaluation on their own merit following the bond and forfeiture process, according to the MHS.
Seltz and others will speak Thursday at the Mackey Center in Detroit to discuss the case and dog fighting in general. The event will be at 10 a.m. at 7887 Chrysler Drive.
The Michigan Humane Society encourages people to report suspected animal cruelty, abuse or neglect to their field services team by calling (313) 872-3401, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Outside of the service areas of Detroit, Hamtramck and Highland Park, concerned community members can contact their local police department or animal control. They can also contact the MHS Statewide Response team for additional resources at (313) 262-4022.