Ten years ago, a dog named Vita was rescued during an undercover investigation by Animal Equality. While the Vita rescue was a shining moment, we must continue the fight to protect animals trafficked and sold during the annual Yulin Dog Meat Festival starting today.
Vita’s rescue was nothing short of a miracle. As our group passed an illegal slaughterhouse in Zhanjiang City, they came across a dog that was about to be killed. She wasn’t alone waiting to be killed, but she quickly caught the attention of our investigators. While the other dogs were sitting in terror in the corners of the abattoir, this dog approached the guests, seemingly begging for his life.
Investigators wasted no time. It was a risky operation, as the abattoir workers could not know about our covert operations or it would threaten the safety of the whole team. But when they looked into the dog’s eyes, it became clear to the investigators that they couldn’t abandon her.
When the butcher was killing other dogs, her eyes begged me to get her out of there. We have earned the trust of the workers…and managed to smuggle [her] out with us.
One of the rescuers
Investigators safely rescued the dog, although it was heartbreaking to leave the others behind. They named her VitaIt means “life” in Italian—a fitting name for a dog that will continue to inspire so many people with his resilience and spirit.
As soon as she arrived in Spain, it became clear why she sought help from our investigators. She is carrying nine puppies that she will give birth to a few days later. Vita and all nine of her puppies will be adopted into shelters. Despite being born into a world full of suffering and cruelty, Vita and her puppies were given a chance at a better life thanks to the quick and brave actions of the investigators.
Vita’s story will continue to be told in my mainstream media around the world, ensuring that the suffering of abandoned dogs is not in vain. Animal Equality has been investigating the dog and cat meat trade for 8 yearskeep telling stories almost 10 million dogs and 4 million cats killed by China’s dog and cat meat and fur trade every year.
The Truth About China’s Dog Meat Industry
The dog and cat meat trade is a global problem affecting China and other countries such as South Korea and parts of Asia. It is not only a cultural practice, but is also “celebrated” during festivals such as the Yulin Dog Meat Festival.
The Yulin dog meat festival has been criticized by animal rights organizations and the public around the world. Since the festival originated in 2009, Yulin, an ancient city in China, celebrates the summer solstice from June 21 to June 29.. During the festival, thousands of dogs are slaughtered in numbers as large as 10,000 dogs are killed every year.
Animals taken illegally, were robbed from their homes or streets and transported thousands of miles to their cruel fate. During the transportation, they were deprived of food and water, locked in cramped cages and forced to endure unimaginable suffering. Some lived through days of illness or injury before being killed, sometimes while still sober.
Footage obtained by Animal Equality during our investigation reveals the true extent of the industry’s cruelty:
Acknowledgment of progress towards a more humane world
According to Humane Society International, there have been some encouraging developments in China when it comes to the consumption of dog and cat meat. In 2020, China’s Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs reclassifies dogs as non-cattle animalsmaking it illegal to raise and slaughter them for meat.
In addition, in the same year, Two major cities in mainland China, Shenzhen and Zhuhai, ban the eating of dogs and cats, with the support of the majority of Chinese citizens. These cities, along with others such as Hong Kong, Taiwan, Thailand, Singapore and the Philippines, as well as some areas in Cambodia and Indonesia, have outlawed the consumption of dog meat.
Not all cultures in Asia participate in these traditions and many people in these regions are also voicing opposition to the practice. Despite this progress, it is estimated that about 30 million dogs are killed for meat in other parts of Asia every year.
The Yulin Dog Meat Festival is just one example of the ongoing dog and cat meat trade in some parts of Asia, and it’s a powerful symbol of the need for continued efforts to protect dogs. and other animals from suffering.
Speak Up For Animals: There’s Still Much To Do
It’s time to make a global change and use our voices and actions to create a better world for animals and the planet. From delicious plant-based recipes to resources and support, Love Veg welcomes everyone who wants to make a positive impact on the world. Join us and be part of a growing community of conscious consumers who are creating a better, healthier and more sustainable future.
RESPECT YOUR FRIENDSHIP
As loyal friends, dogs and cats have been loved by humans for thousands of years. Protect these ancient ties by replacing animal foods with plant-based products.
Vita’s is a symbol that reflects the power of love and compassion. Her rescue from a dog meat farm in South Korea is testament to the tireless efforts of animal rights activists and organizations like Animal Equality. As we celebrate the 10th anniversary of her rescue, we honor her story and the stories of all animals, including cows, pigs and chickens, who suffer and are killed in order to save lives. get meat. We must continue to fight for their rights and support the end of this inhumane industry. Every animal deserves to live a life free of pain, and we must all make that happen.
Vita may have started her life in the dark, but she has shown us that there is always hope for a brighter tomorrow.
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