In a world where the boundless charm of puppies meets the harsh reality of health-threatening parasites, a group of dedicated individuals has embarked on a courageous battle to ensure these lovable companions find their way to a joyous and wholesome existence.
The journey begins with the recognition of the vulnerability of these adorable creatures. Puppies, with their wide-eyed innocence and playful demeanor, often fall prey to a myriad of parasites that threaten their well-being. The guardians, driven by compassion and a deep sense of responsibility, have committed themselves to stand against this invisible menace.
Countless health-threatening parasites lurk in the shadows, ready to compromise the vitality of these innocent beings. From intestinal worms to external pests, the battle encompasses a wide spectrum of challenges. The guardians employ a multi-faceted approach, combining preventive measures, medical interventions, and educational outreach to tackle the issue at its roots.
Preventive measures form a crucial aspect of the guardians’ strategy. They tirelessly work to create awareness among pet owners about the significance of regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and maintaining a clean environment. By empowering the community with knowledge, they aim to build a shield against potential health threats, ensuring that puppies start their lives on a foundation of wellness.
The courageous battle against health-threatening parasites extends beyond awareness. The guardians actively collaborate with veterinary experts, researchers, and pet care professionals to stay ahead of emerging challenges. Through continuous learning and adaptation, they refine their strategies, ensuring the most effective and compassionate care for the puppies under their protection.
Medical interventions play a pivotal role in the guardians’ quest. Each rescued puppy undergoes thorough veterinary assessments, enabling prompt diagnosis and tailored treatment plans. The guardians spare no effort in ensuring that these interventions not only eradicate existing parasites but also prevent future infestations, securing a healthier and happier life for their charges.
Educational outreach emerges as a beacon of hope in the guardians’ mission. They engage with communities, schools, and pet owners, fostering a culture of responsible pet care. By instilling a sense of shared responsibility, they aim to create a ripple effect that extends beyond the immediate rescue efforts, promoting a sustained commitment to the well-being of all puppies.
In the face of adversity, these guardians stand firm, unwavering in their commitment to saving lovable puppies from the clutches of health-threatening parasites. Their journey is not just a battle; it is a testament to the enduring power of compassion and the potential for positive change. Through their collective efforts, a pathway is being forged—a journey towards a joyous and wholesome existence for every puppy, where innocence is preserved, and well-being is paramount.
51 DOGS RESCUED FROM THE DOG MEAT TRADE IN VIETNAM
Dr. Katherine Polak, Head of Stray Animal Care Southeast Asia for FOUR PAWS
The dog meat trade is big business in Vietnam and threatens the lives of millions of dogs every year, many of them pets. Every day, pets are violently snatched off the streets, from yards, and even while out on a walk with their owners. These unlucky dogs make a brutal journey to slaughterhouses, markets, and restaurants, where a gruesome death awaits them. But times are changing, and the brutality and illegality of pet theft is no longer being tolerated by Vietnamese authorities.
In a landmark case, police in Thanh Hoa Province received a tip off regarding a gang of dog thieves believed to have stolen thousands of dogs since the beginning of the year. On September 15, 2019 the police successfully carried out the largest ever bust of a dog theft ring in Vietnam, resulting in the seizure of 51 dogs. According to the police, the gang carried stun guns and other sharp weapons, and rode motorbikes through residential areas late at night shooting dogs roaming outside. Police arrested a total of 16 suspected gang members and questioned more than 40 suspects. The gang not only brutalized neighborhood dogs, but also caused outrage among local people, particularly pet owners.
Following the interception, Police struggled to properly care for the confiscated dogs given their limited capacity for animal care, so the Asia Canine Protection Alliance (ACPA), of which FOUR PAWS is a member, stepped in to offer assistance. There were 13 dogs in need of immediate medical care due to severe wounds sustained during capture. Dogs with painful open wounds were anaesthetised, treated, provided pain medication and antibiotics, and housed in a temporary shelter for ongoing treatment.
The Asia Canine Protection Alliance is an international alliance of four animal protection organizations committed to ending the illegal trade of dogs in Vietnam: FOUR PAWS, Animals Asia, Humane Society International, and Change for Animals Foundation. ACPA is working to build collaborative relationships with the governments throughout Southeast Asia where the dog meat trade is prevalent, and has already secured a moratorium on the trade in dogs between Thailand and Vietnam.
Following the confiscation, the police publicised the bust throughout the province using local media so that stolen dogs could be reunited with their families.
Over the course of 2 weeks, all 51 dogs were successful reunited with their owners, who were devastated by their pets’ disappearance.
This bust pets a major precedent as dog theft is rarely treated as a criminal offense in Vietnam unless the canines are valued at more than VND2 million ($86).
“These arrests will hopefully go a long way in deterring future dog theft in Thanh Hoa Province, and potentially throughout all of Vietnam. While the dog meat trade is often defended as ‘culture’ or ‘tradition’, the reality is that there are significant health and societal impacts associated with the trade and these are becoming of ever-growing concern within Vietnam and internationally.”
Earlier in the week, the Food Safety Management Board of Ho Chi Minh City urged locals to stop eating dog meat in an effort to improve Vietnam’s national image with tourists. They also warned the local community of the health risks posed by consuming the unregulated meat. This followed a similar call by the Hanoi People’s Committee last year.
In addition to membership in ACPA, FOUR PAWS also runs a ‘Cats Matter Too program‘ in Central Vietnam with local charities PAWS for Compassion and Vietnam Cat Welfare to improve veterinary training, animal welfare education, and provide free spay/neuter services.
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