DogBoston’s Dog Blog

According to the Washington Post, dogfighting is a felony in 48 states and the District and a misdemeanor in Idaho and Wyoming. Possessing a fighting dog is legal in Georgia, Idaho and Nevada, a misdemeanor in New York, Texas, West Virginia and Wyoming, and a felony everywhere else. Being a spectator at a dogfight is legal in Georgia and Idaho, a felony in 22 states and a misdemeanor in 26 states and the District. Now, with the celebrity support of Willie Nelson performing the song “Georgia on my Mind,” the state is hoping to put a stricter law in place.

ATLANTA, Georgia (AP) — Willie Nelson is looking to become dog’s best friend.  The country music star has filmed a television spot supporting an anti-dogfighting bill that is moving through the Georgia Legislature.

In the ad, Nelson looks into the camera while “Georgia on My Mind” plays in the background.

“Dogfighting is against the law in Georgia, but the laws are so weak, the beautiful state of Georgia has become a haven for dogfighters from around the country,” he says.

The bill would make it a felony for anyone to sell, trade or transport dogs for the purpose of dogfighting.

Utah-based Best Friends Animal Society, a national animal welfare organization, produced the piece and asked Nelson to participate.

State Sen. Chip Rogers, the bill’s author, hopes to get the spot on TV and radio around the time of the December 10 sentencing for suspended Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick, who pleaded guilty to a federal dogfighting conspiracy charge.

The bill has passed the state Senate and will go before a House committee in January.