It is obviously desirable in our society to avoid the infliction of painful mistreatment of animals. We have reasonable laws on the subject. But amazingly, there still arise cases from time to time about illegal cockfighting.
Some people seem to be thrilled to see roosters equipped with sharp steel spurs fight to the death — while viewers gamble on which will win.
The subject is in the news now because of a raid at a cockfight near Ducktown, Tenn., that led to many citations.
Being involved in cockfighting is just a misdemeanor. In the past, it was a felony in Tennessee. While cockfighting is not an “everyday” offense, it is regrettable that such things sometimes occur. But because they do, some are inspired to call for tougher laws against such abuse of animals.
“Blood sports” have no proper place in a civilized society.