Veterinary specialists from the United Kingdom are preparing to travel to China to provide medical care for dogs rescued from the dog meat trade, many of which are suffering from serious injuries.
Two orthopaedic veterinarians, Vanessa Waite and Calum Marshall, from The Vet Station, will fly to Harbin in north-east China on 15 March. They will be working alongside volunteers from the UK animal welfare charity Broken Biscuits.
During the visit, the vets will assist a rescue facility that cares for dogs saved from the meat trade and help treat animals with severe orthopaedic injuries. Many of the rescued dogs suffer from untreated fractures, spinal damage and joint problems caused by years of neglect and harsh treatment, leaving some unable to walk.
The team will collaborate with Harbin SHS Animal Rescue, which is managed by Irish animal rescuer Hayley. The shelter focuses on rescuing dogs that were previously destined for slaughter and providing them with medical care and a safe place to recover.
According to Tim Giles, the mission aims not only to treat injured dogs but also to share medical knowledge with the shelter staff so they can continue helping animals after the UK team leaves.
Some of the dogs rescued from the trade are expected to be transported to Europe for further care. The most severely injured animals will be brought to the UK under the supervision of Broken Biscuits, where they will undergo advanced treatment, rehabilitation and eventually be placed in new homes.
Dr Waite explained that many of the dogs are living with injuries that could normally be treated if specialist veterinary care were available. She added that working closely with the shelter team and teaching orthopaedic techniques could significantly improve recovery outcomes for many of the animals.