The state Senate recently approved a bill that would ban hog-dogging, where dogs trained to be aggressive are set loose on penned hogs, often boars that have had their tusks removed. While those involved in hog-dogging claim that it is simply a sport as well as a method of training dogs to hunt feral hogs, betting often is involved, indicating this is simply a bloody spectacle, not a real sport of any kind.

A number of states, most of them Southern states, already have banned hog-dogging and others have legislation pending. In South Carolina, the House still must approve the ban before it becomes law.

We hope lawmakers don't succumb to the argument that hog-dogging is a long-time Southern tradition worth preserving. One of those pressing that argument is Rep. Greg Delleney, R-Chester. He said he fears that a ban would be a foot in the door for animal rights activists who are bent on banning hunting and any sport involving animals.

That, we think, is alarmist thinking. Other states have effectively banned hog-dogging without encroaching on the rights of hunters or other sportsmen.

In fact, the bill passed by the Senate specifically exempts coon, fox or bear hunting from its restrictions, focussing solely on contests involving dogs that harm or kill animals, thereby profiting owners.

Hog-dogging and other activities that clearly are cruel to the animals involved are an unfit practice in civilized society. We hope lawmakers in the House give final approval to this ban.