Josephine Co. Public Health: No evidence of dog fighting ring

Grants Pass, Ore.- NBC5 has confirmed through multiple sources an email was sent out this week stating there’s no evidence of a dog fighting ring in Josephine County.

The email was sent by Diane Hoover, the public health director in Josephine County.

The email was in response to reports of an increase in dog thefts. Those reports were made unofficially on social media.

NBC5 spoke with the Rogue Valley Humane Society in Grants Pass earlier this week. Margaret Varner, the director, wasn’t surprised about those reports, saying dogs being stolen and used for fighting is nothing new to her, and she’s glad the community is taking a stand against it.

“It saddens my heart to think that there are still things like that going on in our community. Just looking out for one another, unfortunately there are gonna be unkind people everywhere so it’s up to us to make sure our four legged friends are protected, and safe and loved.”

Whether there’s an increase in thefts or not, Varner said she wants to make sure everyone is educated when it comes to caring for pets.

“Keeping your dog licensed, tagged, if they do get out as strays that way we can get them back to your home safely. But just being aware of your environment, making sure your pets are safe, but that should just be a normal part of your every day life.”