In a significant move to protect public health and promote ethical practices, the Hanoi Sub-department of Animal Husbandry, Fisheries and Veterinary Services, under the Hanoi Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, has issued a crucial directive aimed at ending the dog and cat meat trade across the city’s districts.
The directive outlines a comprehensive strategy involving strict enforcement and collaboration among multiple government agencies and mobile inspection teams.
Highlighting the severe risk posed by a recent rabies outbreak, which has resulted in 102 outbreaks in 29 provinces and cities causing human fatalities, the directive underscores the urgent need to prevent a similar crisis in Hanoi.
A key aspect of the directive is to boost rabies vaccination rates to over 90 percent among pet dogs and cats through a coordinated effort by veterinary authorities. It also mandates strict monitoring and severe penalties for any illegal trade, transportation, slaughter, or sale of dogs and cats for meat.
Mobile inspection teams will be deployed on major transportation routes to intercept and halt unauthorized movement of live dogs and cats.
The directive also calls for extensive public awareness campaigns using mass media to educate residents about the dangers of rabies, the importance of responsible pet management, and the need to move away from consuming dog and cat meat.
Hanoi aims to foster more compassionate attitudes toward animals. By designating ‘rabies-safe zones’ where the dog and cat meat trade is eradicated, this initiative seeks to transform Hanoi into a civilized, tourist-friendly city that aligns with international standards for animal welfare and food safety.
While this directive challenges long-held culinary traditions, the municipal government hopes that robust enforcement and shifting societal values will position Hanoi among world cities that have banned the consumption of dog and cat meat.
Rahul Sehgal, Director of International Advocacy at the Soi Dog International Foundation, praised the directive, saying, “Soi Dog, as a technical support organization facilitating this pioneering campaign, commends Hanoi’s progressive stance against the dog and cat meat trade. This initiative demonstrates a commitment to aligning Vietnam’s capital with contemporary global standards. We will continue providing various assistance to facilitate this move forward.”
This directive serves as a pivotal catalyst for positive change, providing the momentum to eradicate the dog and cat meat trade and positioning Hanoi as a progressive leader in this area among Vietnamese cities.
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