Since its launch in October 2019 one million concerned animal welfare advocates have joined FOUR PAWS in calling for an end to one of the most pressing companion animal welfare concerns of our times.

From Bournemouth to Borneo, and Scarborough to San Diego, animal lovers have pledged their support to end the trade which involves immense cruelty y and the suffering of millions of dogs and cats every year. Joining those speaking out against the trade have been numerous celebrities and over 119,000 UK supporters. Together this support is sending a clear message that an end to the trade is wanted.

But it’s not just those on the other side of the globe wanting change. Indonesia is leading the way in protecting our canine friends, since 2018 they have declared that “dogs should not be considered as food”. In December 2019 the Central Java Governor announced the protection of dogs under the 2012 food law. Thousands of dogs were saved and whilst 2020 has brought little to smile about, it will be remembered as the year in which Siem Reap, a major tourist destination in Cambodia, became the first province in the country to ban the dog meat trade.

Sadly whilst many hoped COVID-19 restrictions would help eradicate demand for the trade, it seems that instead many utilised delivery services and made it available for take-away (both raw meat and cooked dishes). But, in Cambodia at least less than 12% of people regularly consume the meat, according to FOUR PAWS market research.

Since the launch of the petition over 30 dogs have been rescued from the cruel trade. Many of these dogs are now very settled into their new homes with their loving families in the States. Working with rehoming charities in Boston and Los Angeles has allowed the teams to remove the dogs from the clutches of the dog meat trade and offer them a second chance at happiness. One such dog that was saved is Andy. Read more about how after two years in a cage, Andy’s life has changed beyond recognition here.

Your signature and support is still important to #ProtectMillions of cats and dogs and if you haven’t signed the petition yet you still can, by sharing it you can also help raise awareness of our work too.