Tenn. Residents Speak Out Against Animal Fighting

Tennesse is ranked 25^th in The Humane Society of the United States’ list of most animal-friendly states, and many of its residents are aiming to improve its standing. Local activists recently rallied at the state capitol to persuade politicians to pass the Animal Fighting Enforcement Act, which would make the penalties for spectators of animal fights more severe. Currently, Tennesse is one of the few states that does not impose felony charges for cockfighting. “Tennesseans are sending a clear message to their representatives that animal protection issues are important,” says HSUS’ Tennessee State Director, Leighann McCollum. “Animal fighting is gruesome for the animals involved and has a negative impact on the community.”