Hundreds of Roosters Rescued from Cruel Cockfighting Rings in Ohio
In a major operation spanning 48 hours, hundreds of roosters were freed from the brutal world of cockfighting in Huron and Lorain Counties. Humane agents, alongside local animal rescue organizations, worked tirelessly to dismantle three illegal cockfighting rings, bringing an end to the suffering of these exploited birds.
A Massive Operation to Save Lives
On Thursday, the Huron County Humane Society conducted a raid in Wakeman, where they rescued over 100 roosters along with other animals. The next day, the Friendship Animal Protection League in Lorain busted two additional operations—one in Sheffield Township and another in Grafton—resulting in the rescue of nearly 250 more chickens.
One of the key individuals assisting in the rescue efforts was Janine Smalley, founder of Whispering Acres Farm Animal Sanctuary in Medina. Smalley, who has been on the frontlines of similar rescues before, took in several of the roosters and is preparing to take in more as they recover.
The Harsh Reality of Cockfighting
Cockfighting is a cruel and inhumane blood sport where roosters are forced to fight to the death. Smalley described the horrific conditions these birds endure:
"It’s very cruel. It’s very neglectful. They do it for human entertainment and for sport. The roosters have their combs and waddles removed to prevent excessive bleeding, and they’re fitted with sharp metal blades called gaff knives where their spurs would be."
The rescued roosters arrived with cuts, gashes, and severe feather loss, evidence of the brutal fights they were forced into. Rehabilitation for these birds is not easy—it can take up to six months or more for them to recover physically and mentally from the trauma.
The Long Road to Recovery
One such survivor is Cluck Norris, a rooster rescued from a cockfighting ring in Lorain County a year ago. Smalley explained the intensive rehabilitation process, which involves slowly acclimating the birds to a safe and nurturing environment.
"It’s so tough. We put food around the outside of the cage so they see other animals eating without harm. We then gradually introduce them so they realize they are safe and won’t be attacked."
While the birds now have a chance at a better life, their rescuers face another battle—finding safe homes for them. Bird flu is currently a widespread concern, making it difficult for sanctuaries to take in new birds without extensive quarantine protocols.
A Call for Change
Despite the scale of these operations, the penalties for cockfighting remain shockingly low in Ohio. While dog fighting is classified as a felony, cockfighting is only a fourth-degree misdemeanor, punishable by a mere $250 fine or up to 30 days in jail.
Smalley expressed her frustration with the current laws:
"Who would want to sit around and watch an animal kill another animal? I cannot understand the logic of that sport whatsoever. It mortifies me."
How You Can Help
The rescued chickens need homes, and both Huron County Humane Society and Friendship APL are seeking donations to help with their care. While Friendship APL must hold onto their rescued birds as legal proceedings unfold, Huron County is actively looking for adopters.
If you’d like to help, consider donating to these organizations, fostering a rescued rooster, or advocating for stricter laws against cockfighting.
Together, we can take a stand against animal cruelty and ensure these birds have a chance at a peaceful life beyond the ring.
Source: 19 News
