The North Georgia Animal League is offering a reward for any information leading to the return of missing dogs or the conviction of persons responsible.

Dozens of dogs – mostly breeds such as pit bulls, boxers and Chihuahuas – have gone missing from the Rossville and Chickamauga areas in the past 2½ months, often right out of their owners’ backyards. The predominant fear is that the pets are being used in an illegal dog-fighting ring.

“We’re certainly sympathetic to anyone losing an animal or a family pet,” said Virgil Sperry of the North Georgia Animal League. He hopes that the offer of a $500 reward will tempt someone with information to come forward.

“Maybe this will get some information to come out from under the rocks,” he said.