We are demanding the closure of live meat markets. Since China has contained the spread of, and has not reported any new COVID-19 cases - live meat markets have reopened. It is believed COVID-19 started with a bat or pangolin in a live meat market, where it first infected humans through blood transfer.

These markets have no refrigeration or sanitation protocols. Live animals fester in pools of water or in cages, multiplying bacteria and viruses. Due to poor sanitation and no oversight, diseases manifest in food processing areas or on makeshift kill floors.

COVID-19 has wreaked havoc on different countries throughout the world. We have a chance to educate, and to learn from our past mistakes and experiences. This petition is asking the Trump Administration to put pressure on the Chinese Government, demanding these live markets be shut down to ensure safety of all animals, domesticated and wild.

Markets where dogs and cats are tortured and killed. Where frogs, snakes and turtles are kept live in pools of water. Where bats, mink, chickens, civets and pangolins are slaughtered. Though the Chinese government has made the decision to ban wildlife trade, it isn’t enough. All animals including dogs and cats must be included in this ban.