Introduction to Meat Trade

The meaning behind the meat trade of cats and dogs is to kill and sell these animals for food. In some areas, people eat cat and dog meat for traditional reasons, which makes this a controversial and culturally sensitive issue. The meat trade of cats and dogs has existed for centuries, often due to traditional beliefs or culinary preferences. Nowadays, there is growing opposition to this trade from animal rights organizations, international groups, and local citizens due to the inhumane treatment of cats and dogs.

It is mostly seen in parts of Asia, and although it is more common there, it is still important to discuss the meat trade so that our community in Aotearoa is educated about what is happening around the world. Hopefully, this awareness will inspire action to stop the violence against cats and dogs.

In Aotearoa, the meat trade of cats and dogs is prohibited due to strict animal welfare laws that protect these animals and ensure their safety from cruelty. Although there is no specific date for the introduction of this ban, Aotearoa's animal welfare laws have greatly influenced the prohibition on slaughtering and consuming cats and dogs. This is outlined in the Animal Welfare Act 1999, which states, “The Animal Welfare Act 1999 (The Act) sets out how people should take care of and act towards animals and is jointly enforced by SPCA, the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), and the Police.”