SHANGHAI (CHINA) – Defying a government campaign to improve animal welfare and reduce health risks in the wake of the coronavirus spread, China’s notorious dog-meat festival got under way. However, activists are hopeful its days are numbered.
The annual 10-day festival in the southwestern city of Yulin attracts thousands of visitors, many of whom buy dogs displayed in cramped cages. But campaigners said the numbers have dropped this year.
Beijing is mulling new legislation to prohibit trade of wildlife and protect pets and animal rights activists hope this would be the last time the festival is held..
“I do hope Yulin will change not only for the sake of the animals but also for the health and safety of its people,” said Peter Li, China policy specialist with the Humane Society International, an animal rights group.
“Allowing mass gatherings to trade in and consume dog meat in crowded markets and restaurants in the name of a festival poses a significant public health risk,” he said.
The coronavirus, which is said to have originated in horseshoe bats before infecting humans in a Wuhan market, has forced Beijing to reassess its relationship with animals, and the government has pledged to ban the wildlife trade.
In April, Shenzhen became the first Chinese city to ban the consumption of dogs, with others expected to follow.
The agriculture ministry has also decided to place dogs under the category of pets instead of livestock.
(Photos syndicated via Reuters)
This story has been edited by BH staff and is published from a syndicated field