Dogs escape death after police raid targets traffickers and Animals Asia steps in to find them homes.

When the Chengdu police entered the dog thieves’ den on 23 July, they found 35 dogs cowering in fear.

Many were wearing collars and some were pure-breed, strongly suggesting they had been stolen from homes. All were scared and desperately in need of help.

According to media, in China up to 10 million dogs are slaughtered in the country every year for the meat trade.

A report released by Animals Asia in 2015 has revealed widespread illegality at every stage of the dog meat supply chain including companion animals poisoned to death, and a complete lack of proof of origin and vaccination certificates.

Since seeing the report, the Chengdu authorities have been keen to act to protect both dog owners fearful their companions will be snatched, and consumers at risk of consuming poisoned or unsanitary meat.

Animals Asia met with the Chengdu Public Security Bureau in February this year to discuss tactics to stop the illegal supply of stolen dogs resulting in this month’s dramatic rescue.

Animals Asia’s Cat and Dog Welfare Director Irene Feng said:

“These dogs are alive because the police acted to save them. Few dog thief gangs have been arrested in Chengdu, but since our meeting with the authorities in February, we have found they are very keen to stamp out this illegality.

“Now that they know how the criminals are operating and the cruelty and sadness they are causing to animals and humans, we can expect to see more strong action from the authorities.”

With the gang arrested for stealing dogs and illegally selling them for meat, the police were left with 35 dogs to re-home.

That’s when the local Public Security Bureau called Animals Asia for help.

Soon the dogs were on their way to the Sichuan Qiming Animal Protection Centre (SQAPC), a group supported and mentored by Animals Asia, where they are being treated.

All 35 of the dogs are scared and in need of medical attention. Since the rescue Animals Asia and SQAPC have been able to provide vaccinations, food and medicine to keep them alive.

Animals Asia’s Founder and CEO, Jill Robinson said: 

“Thankfully, these 35 dogs are safe for now. Scared, weak, but safe. The challenge now is to re-unite them with their heartbroken guardians or find them new forever homes.

“That won’t be easy, but we’ll give the group most pressing support and guidance they need to give these dogs the best chance of not just surviving – but thriving.”

Sadly, none of the dogs are microchipped which will greatly complicate efforts to find their grieving families. Once the dogs are healthy, Animals Asia intends to launch a social media campaign in partnership with SQAPC within China to track down lost loved ones.

 

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