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News13’s Stephen Gunter is committed to giving you stories of the Panhandle’s top athletes, intriguing match-ups and unusual sports you may not even know exist.
sgunter@wmbb.com

Friday, August 03, 2007

Dog Fighting is Close to Home

LYNN HAVEN - In light of the Michael Vick dog fighting case, endorsements are taking their name away from the NFL super star.

But, dog fighting is not just something associated prolific sports icons.  It’s even happening here in the panhandle.

According to Chief David Messer of Lynn Haven, dog fighting has been going on here for years and years.

And it’s a lot closer to home than you would think.

Nine pit bulls and one German shepherd are victims of animal cruelty.  They’re now locked up in the Lynn Haven Animal Shelter.

Claude Cook is the man responsible.

On Feb. 8, 2006, police along with animal control were dispatched to 1512 Wisconsin Avenue after receiving complaints from neighbors about the smell and barking.

“The first dog we saw was all chewed up,” Lynn Haven Animal Control Supervisor Romona Bibbs said.  “His face was full of puss. He was obviously a victim of brutal attack of another dog.”

The officers heard more noise behind the privacy fence.  After further investigation, they found a hidden fence where cook was training and keeping dogs.

“We found collars but no dogs,” Chief Messer said.  “That means some were killed.”

Chief Messer said that these dogs that Cook trained were sent to both Atlanta and Tallahassee to fight.  They’re still dangerous when around other dogs.  But with humans, they’re still man’s best friend.

Officers confronted Cook about several medical items on scene that are commonly used in dog fighting; such as a breaking stick, steroids and syringes.

In an official police document, Cook said that “I know it looks like I’m fighting dogs, but I’m not.  I train game dogs, I don’t fight them here.”

“He was a trainer and a breeder,” Chief Messer said.  “Of course to train them, you have to fight them.”

The case will go to the bay county court house in two about weeks.

“From there we’re going to have to determine if they’re going to have to be euthanized or safe to the public or not,” Bibbs said.

The dogs have been held in the animal shelter for well over 500 days.  That cost adds up.  Care for the animals is up to $36,000.

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