Zhuhai is Now the Second City in China to Ban Dog and Cat Meat

Just two weeks ago, Shenzhen became the first city in mainland China to make consumption and production of dog and cat meat illegal. Now, another city in mainland China, Zhuhai, has done the same. Just recently, China reclassified dogs as companion animals, not livestock, changing perception of dogs in the country and giving animal activists hope that the end of dog and cat meat in the country is in sight.

Humane Society International (HSI) told One Green Planet that “Other cities in mainland China are believed to be considering bans.” The classification change of companion animals was expected to have a domino effect in China and clearly it is doing just that.

Dr. Peter Li says: “Zhuhai’s ban on dog and cat meat eating is thrilling news for all those in China and around the world who have campaigned for so long to end this brutal trade. Coming so soon after Shenzhen’s ban and the government’s historic statement classifying dogs as pets, we hope this is the start of a domino effect of progressive legislation across China with other cities following suit. With so many millions of dogs and cats falling victim to the meat trade, it’s easy to lose sight of the fact that most people in China don’t eat dogs and cats, and that for years there has been enormous public Support in China for an end to the cruelty. So now it would seem that in the absence of a national ban, cities are taking matters into their own hands and reflecting the mood of the people.”

Every year, thirty million dogs are killed across Asia for meat and an estimated 10 million dogs a year are killed for China’s dog meat trade. Not only has the coronavirus pandemic helped people realize that wildlife markets need to be banned, but it’s making it clear that slaughtering and consuming wildlife and animals like dogs and cats spread diseases. The WHO warns that the dog trade spreads rabies and increases risk of cholera.

Most people in China do not even consume dogs, only 20 percent of the population does. Even in Yulin, known for their cruel dog meat festival, 72 percent of people do not consume dog meat. This is exciting news that is welcomed by those in China who love their pets and want to see the end of their consumption.

Sign this petition to speak up against the Yulin Dog Meat Festival, which will hopefully also come to an end soon.

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