For more than a decade, SPCA International has stood alongside rescuers on the front lines fighting one of the cruelest industries in the world: the dog meat trade.
Every year, countless dogs are stolen from homes, bred in terrible conditions, crammed into small cages, and denied even the most basic care. Many suffer from starvation, dehydration, untreated injuries, and fear before being brutally killed. While the cruelty can feel overwhelming, hope continues to grow because compassionate people around the world refuse to stay silent.
Over the last five years alone, we have helped more than 6,000 dogs rescued from the dog meat trade through our partnerships with rescuers in China and South Korea. These partnerships have made it possible for dogs to receive emergency veterinary care, food, shelter, rehabilitation, and, most importantly, a second chance at life.
Thanks to the support of our donors, SPCA International has also provided nearly a quarter of a million dollars in grants to help care for rescued dogs and support advocacy efforts working to end this industry for good. These funds have helped rescuers save animals directly from slaughterhouses and transport trucks while also supporting campaigns pushing for stronger animal protection laws.
And progress is happening.
In January 2024, South Korea passed a landmark law officially banning the breeding, slaughter, and sale of dogs for human consumption. This historic legislation marks the beginning of the end of a centuries-old practice that has faced growing pressure both within the country and around the world. The law will be fully enforced starting in February 2027.
This victory did not happen overnight. It happened because rescuers, advocates, animal lovers, and supporters around the world continued speaking up for dogs who could not speak for themselves.
While the dog meat trade still exists in some parts of the world, this moment shows that change is possible. Every rescue, every grant, every petition signed, and every donation made helps move us closer to a future where no dog suffers in this industry again.
We remain deeply committed to supporting our partners on the ground as they continue this lifesaving work. Their courage and determination inspire us every single day.
We are also incredibly grateful to our supporters. Because of your compassion, thousands of dogs have been rescued from unimaginable cruelty and given the chance to experience safety, love, and kindness for the first time.
Together, we are creating change, saving lives, and proving that compassion can overcome cruelty.