For more information and to take action, visit: https://koreandogs.org/china-dog/

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Imagine the terror of a beloved family pet, snatched from their home, crammed into a cage, and transported for days without food or water. This is the reality for millions of dogs and cats in China, victims of a brutal and inhumane trade. These animals endure unimaginable suffering, from the moment they are stolen or bred on illegal dog farms to their final, agonizing moments in slaughterhouses.

In 2020, following the COVID-19 outbreak, China’s Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs reclassified dogs as “companion animals,” no longer categorizing them as “livestock.” While this change was significant, a nationwide ban on dog meat consumption has not been implemented. Only a few cities, such as Shenzhen and Zhuhai, have enacted local bans on dog and cat meat consumption.

The dog and cat meat trade is not a cultural tradition; it’s a cycle of cruelty that demands our urgent attention. Furthermore, this industry poses a significant threat to public health. The unsanitary conditions and unregulated nature of the trade create a breeding ground for diseases like rabies, putting both animals and humans at risk. Beyond the health concerns, there’s a fundamental ethical question: can we, as a society, condone the systematic torture and slaughter of sentient beings?

While the dog and cat meat trade persists in China, including the existence of farms specifically breeding dogs for slaughter, there’s a powerful and growing movement of people who want to see it end. Within China and across the globe, voices are rising to condemn the cruelty and demand change. Younger generations, in particular, are leading the charge, recognizing that compassion for animals reflects a progressive and humane society. We can amplify these voices and create real, lasting change. By joining this campaign, you’ll be part of a global effort to pressure the Chinese government to enact stronger animal protection laws and put an end to this barbaric trade. Let’s work together to create a China where dogs and cats are safe from fear and pain and treated with the respect they deserve.

PETITION:

Urgent Appeal to End the Dog and Cat Meat Trade and Strengthen Animal Protection Laws

To: The Government of The People’s Republic of China

We are writing to express our profound concern regarding the persistent and widespread cruelty inflicted upon dogs and cats within China’s meat trade. We respectfully urge the Chinese government to take substantive and decisive action to address this issue.

In 2020, following the COVID-19 outbreak, China’s Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs made a significant step by reclassifying dogs as “companion animals,” removing them from the category of “livestock.” However, despite this progress, a nationwide ban on dog meat consumption has not been implemented. Currently, only a few cities, such as Shenzhen and Zhuhai, have enacted local bans on the consumption of dog and cat meat. This limited scope leaves millions of animals vulnerable to the cruelties of the trade.

Recent legislative developments in countries like South Korea, which have enacted bans on the dog meat trade, highlight a growing global interest in advancing animal welfare. China now has an opportunity to demonstrate its commitment to compassion and the humane treatment of animals.

We respectfully request the Government of China to:

1. Ban the slaughter, trade, and consumption of dogs and cats nationwide.
2. Strengthen animal protection laws to prevent cruelty, abuse, and neglect.
3. Educate the public through awareness campaigns on the cruelty of the dog and cat meat trade.
4. Support alternative livelihoods for those currently involved in the trade.
5. Collaborate with international animal welfare organizations to develop humane animal management programs.
6. Address public health risks, including the spread of rabies and other zoonotic diseases.
7. Stop the brutal practices of this trade, including slaughter, inhumane transport, and holding of animals in cramped, unsanitary conditions.

Taking these actions will not only protect animals but also benefit China’s global image and economy. By committing to animal welfare, China will:

- Enhance its reputation as a compassionate and progressive nation.
- Attract ethical tourism and investment.
- Improve international trade relationships.
- Align with global standards of animal protection.

The dog and cat meat trade in China raises significant concerns regarding animal welfare. We respectfully ask the Chinese government to consider taking meaningful steps to address this matter and strengthen animal protection laws. An online petition has garnered substantial international attention, with over 160,000 advocates worldwide expressing their support, and that number continues to increase. https://chng.it/kQ6scJKFwH

We are committed to following the progress of this issue and fostering constructive dialogue aimed at improving animal welfare in China.