Statement on Chinese Ban on the Consumption of Wild Animals in Response to COVID-19

New York, NY (February 27, 2020) – “China’s temporary ban on the trade and consumption of wild animals is a crucial step for safeguarding the well-being of wildlife and people. We encourage the Chinese government to make this ban permanent, with strict enforcement and penalties for illegal trading. The black-market wildlife trade spurs the uncontrolled spread of zoonotic diseases, and causes immense suffering for millions of animals, preventing them from behaving naturally.  

We also applaud the city of Shenzhen’s proposed ban on the consumption of dog, snake, turtle and frog meat. If passed, this ban would send a much-needed message across the country that the cruel rearing of these animals for food is unacceptable. We urge the city of Shenzhen to pass this ban and hope it will soon be considered nationwide,” said Meredith Ayan, SPCA International, Executive Director.

About SPCA International

SPCA International (https://www.spcai.org/about-spcai/) is a global animal welfare organization with a mission that is simple, but vast: to advance the safety and well-being of animals. Through outreach, rescue and education programs SPCA International spearheads lifesaving initiatives and assists grassroots animal activists worldwide.

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