Rescued Dogs from Illegal Farm Find New Hope in the U.S.

On May 8, officials from Cheongju City, along with representatives from an international animal protection organization and actor Daniel Henney, worked to relocate dogs rescued from an illegal slaughterhouse in Songjeol-dong, Heungdeok-gu. Dozens of Jindo mix dogs were saved from a dire fate at a dog farm where they faced imminent slaughter. Due to a low preference for large breeds in South Korea, these dogs were at risk of euthanasia if not adopted. However, with the assistance of the Humane World for Animals, the rescued dogs are being sent to the United States for adoption.

In February, Cheongju City received reports from animal welfare groups about illegal slaughter activities at a dog farm in Heungdeok-gu. Upon inspection, it was discovered that 68 Jindo mix dogs were living in deplorable conditions, confined in cramped wire cages known as 'teungjang' and suffering from malnutrition and related health issues. Some deceased dogs were also found on the premises, indicating the brutal treatment they endured.

Following the inspection, the city took ownership of the 68 dogs and began their rescue efforts. Due to limited space at the local pet protection center, some dogs were temporarily housed at the farm. During this time, one of the dogs gave birth to several puppies, a few of which were adopted domestically.

Unfortunately, the remaining large dogs faced challenges in finding homes, as potential adopters in South Korea typically prefer smaller breeds. Without adopters, the threat of euthanasia loomed. Fortunately, the Humane World for Animals expressed interest in relocating the rescued dogs to the U.S., alleviating some of the city's concerns. A city official noted, 'It is difficult to find adopters for large dogs raised for consumption. Many have stayed at the shelter for over a year without finding homes, so this news was a relief.'

The city collaborated with animal welfare organizations to prepare the dogs for international adoption, administering vaccinations including rabies and COVID-19. On the same day, 51 of the rescued dogs were sent to the U.S. via Incheon International Airport. The remaining 17, including young puppies and their mother, will be cared for for an additional four months before being sent abroad later this year. These dogs are expected to find new families in the U.S., where adoption rates for pets are significantly higher.

Actor Daniel Henney participated in the relocation efforts, drawing attention to the cause. He has been known to adopt a retriever rescued from another dog farm in South Korea since 2020.

The farm owner has been reported for violating animal protection laws, and the facility has been shut down. Kim Sang-jin, head of the Cheongju City Animal Protection Team, stated, 'We will continue to do our best for animal welfare and encourage people to adopt rather than buy pets.' Currently, the city's pet protection center cares for approximately 1,300 stray animals annually, with about 60% being adopted. Kim also mentioned a temporary foster program that allows families to care for stray animals for two months before deciding to adopt, along with support for veterinary costs for low-income families.