Dogs that are in shelters have usually been through a tough time. But recently Midwest Animal Rescue in Brooklyn Park took in four dogs from South Korea who are suspected survivors of that country’s dog meat trade.
The four suspected survivors are in the care of Midwest Animal Rescue (MARS). MARS says the animals escaped the gruesome conditions a month ago.
“We were all shocked when we got the email,” says Camille Bates with MARS. “I knew that it had been a thing that dogs had been food. I didn’t know that it was current.”
The Humane Society International recently shut down their 14th meat farm in South Korea. The organization needed help placing the animals in the United States, that’s where Midwest Animal Rescue stepped in.
“They have been working on a mission to shut down Korean meat farms,” added Bates. “The organization works with the farmers to give them skills to learn a new trade. They sign a contract so that they can’t breed animals anymore. The contract also states that farmers can’t sell animals for food anymore. They aren’t allowed to sell animals period.”
More than 200 Dogs Brought to the States
The Humane Society International brought the more than 200 dogs to the United States. Those animals are now in shelters all over the country including right here in the northwest metro.
“These animals had now where to go,” says Bates. “No other rescue could or would take them. MARS stepped in and we have these four survivors with us.”
The images from the meat farm are shocking. However, the rescue says they are honored to be a part of the change.
“Dogs are pets. They are not meant to be food,” says Bates. “When the Humane Society reached out to us, our mission fell right alongside them. We knew we had to help.”
All four of the dog are still available for adoption. To learn more about the adoption process call MARS at 763-503-4990. It’s important to keep in mind that if you put an application in for one of the dogs that doesn’t mean you will automatically be adopting the dog. The rescue wants to make sure the dogs are going to a home where they will thrive most efficiently. For more information on the MARS you can visit their website.
Meredith Hackler, reporting
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