Says Marc Ching from Animal Hope and Wellness:“The owners and association that run one of the

Says Marc Ching from Animal Hope and Wellness:

“The owners and association that run one of the largest and oldest dog meat markets in South Korea, agree to close their slaughterhouses.

Not just the dog meat slaughterhouses, but all of them. The chicken slaughterhouses. The duck slaughterhouses. The rabbit slaughterhouses.

They told me that many local activists and international groups have lobbied and petitioned, asking for the same thing. They told me that when they come, all they do is argue and fight with them.

He said, “This is the first time ever, that someone has come asking how we can work together.”

He said, “You should feel lucky, because today is historic.”

Our first victory…

(Deeply rooted in tradition, Gupo Meat Market has been slaughtering animals for over a century.

Today marks the first time in history that they have agreed to make a change, accepting to work with our foundation.

While the process of emptying the cages still needs to be presented to the government, the hard part is over. Getting the dog meat traders themselves, to want to become something else.

This victory - let it be for the animals.)” 

This post was taken from the Animal Hope and Wellness Facebook page where a short, yet beautiful video of a little dog being rescued from a slaughterhouse+farm which is currently being destroyed can be found. His name is Ari and he is one of 47 that were rescued yesterday. Thanks to this instrumental leap forward of the closing of this large slaughterhouse-chain, so many more Aris will be saved from their suffering.

While far from being the “first victory” for Animal Hope and Wellness on behalf of the animals (they have already saved the lives of hundreds, if not thousands, by dismantling individual slaughterhouses/farms and direct rescues), it is certainly one of the most monumental. And not just for the animals who are being fought for and represented by Marc Ching and Animal Hope and Wellness, but for all animals and the entire animal rights movement!! In addition to those that will be rescued, re-homed, and given a new chance at life, this victory also means that a vast number of chickens, ducks, dogs, and rabbits will now be spared from ever having to experience such sadness and pain.

Endless gratitude to Marc Ching, those who work with him, those who support him, and the “business” owners who are finally letting their true compassion shine!!

*All pictures belong to Animal Hope and Wellness and/or Marc Ching with the exception of the two pictures depicting the beautiful moment when Toronto Chicken Save, with the critical aid of Marc, rescued four chickens.