Rescued dogs arrive from South Korean meat farm

Humane Society International and the Change for Animals Foundation, in collaboration with local partners, have rescued 57 dogs from a South Korean dog meat farm and brought them to San Francisco for adoption into new homes.

As part of the agreement, Humane Society International got the dog farm’s owner to move into the production of more humane crops by providing assistance to make that transition possible. They also plan to follow the farmer’s progress and ensure compliance with the agreement, according to the humane society.

In January, HSI and the Change for Animals Foundation rescued 23 dogs from a different South Korean dog farm, where the farmer transitioned to growing blueberries, according to the humane society. Fifteen dogs arrived today at the Mission campus of the San Francisco Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

The other 42 dogs began arriving Monday, according to HSI. After the dogs have been evaluated and seen by a veterinarian, HSI will work with the Marin Humane Society and SPCA chapters in Sacramento and the East Bay to put them up for adoption.

There are a variety of dog breeds represented in the rescued animals, including beagles, poodles, Tosas and Korean Jindos, according to HSI. Officials with the humane society said they’re are looking to reduce the size and scope of the dog farming industry in Asia.

The 2018 Winter Olympics will be held in Pyeongchang, South Korea. Adam Parascandola, HSI’s director of animal protection and crisis response, said in a statement that the Olympics marked a “clear opportunity to end the dog meat trade.”