Last April, the ASPCA announced a partnership with iconic actor, Sir Patrick Stewart, to “raise awareness on the prevalence of dog fighting in the U.S. and encourage animal lovers nationwide to take action against one of the most brutal forms of animal cruelty.”
This past week, in honor of National Dog Fighting Awareness Day, Stewart visited the ASPCA’s Canine Annex for Rehabilitation and Enrichment (CARE) to visit with former fighting dogs, including a special cutie named Orson.
As Sir Patrick says in the video, “Dogs are born to enjoy walks in the park, play with toys and receive belly rubs – but not fight.” He shared a photo of himself with Orson, encouraging fans to #breakthechain against dog fighting and consider adopting a rescue dog.
Ending the cruel practice of dog fighting is not Stewart’s only dog-related crusade. He has also backed a petition demanding the repeal of the UK’s Dangerous Dogs Act. Last year, Stewart and his wife, Sunny Ozell announced that the act prevented them from transporting their foster Pit Bull, Ginger, to their home in the English countryside.
“It is essential that the Dangerous Dogs Act of 1991 be re-examined,” Stewart said. “Caring, good-natured creatures are being denied homes and their owners and potential owners deprived of a healthy and loving partnership.”
The petition against the act, which targets Pit Bull-type dogs and others labeled as potentially “dangerous,” has been signed by more than 200,000 people.
Featured Image via Facebook/Patrick Stewart
(h/t: The Huddersfield Daily Examiner)
via Whisker Therapy