Dog fighting remains rife in the region with almost 100 reports in the last four years, the RSPCA has warned.

The charity has released the figures to raise awareness of the illegal practice, which it says continues largely driven by underworld organised criminal gangs often linked to illegal gambling rings.

In Norfolk 16 reports of dog fighting have been received by the RSPCA since 2019, and 14 in Suffolk.

Essex is the worst county in the region for it, with 29 of the incidents occurring there.

READ MORE: 'Alarming increase' in reports of animal cruelty in Norfolk

The figures are less than in the previous four years though this is probably due to Covid lockdowns rather than a genuine reduction in the barbaric practice which sees fighting dogs trained and pitted against each other. 

Eastern Daily Press: The barbaric practice sees fighting dogs trained and pitted against each otherThe barbaric practice sees fighting dogs trained and pitted against each other (Image: RSPCA)

RSPCA dog-fighting expert and Special Operations Unit (SOU) chief inspector Ian Muttitt said: “It’s staggering that something which has been illegal for almost 200 years, which most people would consider consigned to history, is still so rife.”

In total the RSPCA has investigated 1,156 incidents across England and Wales since 2019.

Chief Insp Muttitt added: “The dog fighting world is a dark and secretive place. It could be happening in an inner-city warehouse next door to your office or on a rural farm in your quiet village.

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“Signs of dog fighting can vary but if you notice a dog with lots of scars on its face, front legs, hind legs and thighs, or with puncture wounds and mangled ears - this could be a sign of dog fighting and should be reported to the RSPCA or the police. 

Eastern Daily Press: Dogs rescued from fighting often cannot be rehomed as they are banned breedsDogs rescued from fighting often cannot be rehomed as they are banned breeds (Image: PA)

“Dogs who win fights are prized and are often treated like Kings. But those who refuse to fight or lose are often abandoned or barbarically killed.”

Many of the dogs used to fight are never found and some rescued are often banned breeds that cannot legally be rehomed.

Anyone concerned about the welfare of an animal or suspects dog fighting may be taking place should call the RSPCA animal cruelty line on 0300 1234999.