Fort Wayne, United States - July 29, 2025 On July 29, rescuers intervened in a suspected dogfighting ring, rescuing 22 dogs and puppies from two properties in Fort Wayne amid a dangerous heat wave. Law enforcement served search and seizure warrants around 2 p.m. as the heat index neared 110 degrees. At the first location, dogs were found panting inside filthy cages and hutches. Many had no access to water despite the intense heat, and several showed scars consistent with dogfighting. One dog was discovered in a sweltering garage cage with a large old wound on its neck. Investigators also uncovered dogfighting equipment including treadmills and a restraint stand used for breeding. The second property held dogs chained outdoors with inadequate shelter, many suffering from flystrike, a serious condition caused by flies laying eggs on the animals. Others were confined to cramped cages without water. A female dog was found covered in scars and missing part of her lip. Blood spatter was identified on basement walls by veterinarians. Despite their harsh conditions, many dogs greeted rescuers with wagging tails and hopeful eyes. “Between the suffocating heat, filthy conditions and bodies covered in scars—it’s incomprehensible. Yet these dogs still greeted us with wagging tails and hopeful eyes,” said Samantha Chapman, Indiana state director of Humane World for Animals. Dogfighting causes severe injuries including bruises, puncture wounds, and broken bones. Dogs often die from dehydration, infection, blood loss, exhaustion, or shock hours or days after fights. The Fort Wayne Police Department, working with Humane World for Animals, Fort Wayne Animal Care and Control, and the Indiana Gaming Commission, arrested suspects and continues the investigation. Dogfighting is a felony punishable by up to five years in prison. The rescued dogs were transported to a confidential location where they will receive care and treatment.