Three dogs seized in a large dog fighting ring near Tilbury have been euthanized.
Officials with the Ontario SPCA say the dogs were put down due to medical reasons, "after two veterinarians deemed that euthanasia was the most humane option."
Last week the agency made a request to euthanize an additional 21 dogs.
A total of 31 dogs were found, and the remaining 28 are in the care of the OSPCA.
In October Chatham-Kent police responded to a home in Tilbury East Township where three people were arrested on animal cruelty charges.
Although the OSPCA is caring for the dogs, they do not own them as the matter is before the courts. A judge will make a decision on the future of the dogs.
The OSPCA says euthanasia is a last resort and all other options will be explored to rehabilitate the animals, regardless of breed. The shelter will work with agencies outside the province to place pit bulls because Ontario has a ban on the breed.
