The Thai Veterinary Medical Association estimate as many as 500,000 Thai dogs per year make the one way trip to Vietnam and Southern China where they are butchered by cruel and barbaric methods.
John Dalley, the founder of Soi Dog Foundation said, “The conditions under which the dogs are transported and slaughtered are horrific and many die from suffocation long before they reach their final destination. In reality these are the lucky ones.”
He added that although there was no concrete evidence, he had reason to suspect that dog-rustling was taking place on the island, “There is no evidence of the rustlers operating in Phuket, though some local people believe that the disappearance of the large number of dogs removed from Patong Beach in May 2011 may have gone there.
“Soi Dog Foundation have plenty of evidence showing that local dogs, particularly black ones, have been snatched by migrant workers for local consumption in labour camps on the island. This is most prevalent around New Year and owners should keep their dogs secure during this period.”
The current law for the illegal export of live animals and carcasses allows up to a 2 year jail sentence and B40,000 fine.
The Trade of Shame Campaign needs the help of everybody to raise awareness and stop this cruel trade before any other dogs are killed.
You can help raise awareness by liking and sharing the Trade of Shame Facebook page: facebook.com/TradeofShame