Off the table: The directive seeks to discourage the deeply entrenched consumption of dog and cat meat. — The Straits Times/ANN
In a move to safeguard public health and promote more ethical practices, the Hanoi authorities issued a directive in a move towards eliminating dog and cat meat trade across the city.
The Hanoi Sub-department of Animal Husbandry, Fisheries and Veterinary Services’ directive outlines a multi-pronged strategy. It involves strict enforcement and cooperation across multiple government agencies and mobile inspection teams.
Citing the grave risk posed by the recent rabies outbreak across the country, the directive emphasises the urgent need to prevent such a public health crisis in Hanoi. There have been 102 rabies outbreaks in 29 provinces and cities causing human fatalities.
A core focus of the directive is to enhance rabies vaccination rates to over 90% among the pet dog and cat population through a concerted drive by veterinary authorities.
Strict monitoring and tough penalties have been mandated for any illegal trade, transportation, and slaughter or sale of dogs and cats for meat. Inspection teams will be deployed at key transportation routes to intercept and halt any unauthorised movement of live dogs and cats.
The directive also calls for extensive public awareness campaigns using mass media to educate residents about the dangers of rabies, the need for responsible pet management practices and to discourage the deeply entrenched consumption of dog and cat meat.
By designating ‘rabies-safe zones’ where the dog and cat meat trade is completely eliminated, the directive aims to align Hanoi with international standards for animal welfare and food safety. — Vietnam News/ANN
