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  13. <title>Humane Society International</title>
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  33. <title>Viet Nam must end the dog meat trade if Prime Minister’s Directive to tackle rabies is to succeed, warns Humane Society International</title>
  34. <link>https://www.hsi.org/news-resources/viet-nam-must-end-the-dog-meat-trade-if-prime-ministers-directive-to-tackle-rabies-is-to-succeed-warns-humane-society-international/</link>
  35. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Cassie Bodin-Duval]]></dc:creator>
  36. <pubDate>Thu, 21 Mar 2024 14:08:35 +0000</pubDate>
  37. <category><![CDATA[news-feature]]></category>
  38. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.hsi.org/?p=103775</guid>
  39.  
  40. <description><![CDATA[<p>HANOI—Viet Nam’s Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính has been urged to take decisive action to end the country’s trafficking and...</p>
  41. <p>The post <a href="https://www.hsi.org/news-resources/viet-nam-must-end-the-dog-meat-trade-if-prime-ministers-directive-to-tackle-rabies-is-to-succeed-warns-humane-society-international/">Viet Nam must end the dog meat trade if Prime Minister’s Directive to tackle rabies is to succeed, warns Humane Society International</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.hsi.org">Humane Society International</a>.</p>
  42. ]]></description>
  43. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure id="attachment_103776" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-103776" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" src="https://www.hsi.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/ThaiNguyenVietnam03Novselection_4_621422-1-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-103776" class="wp-caption-text"><span class="section__credit">Chau Doan AP Images for HSI</span></figcaption></figure>
  44. <p>HANOI—Viet Nam’s Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính has been urged to take decisive action to end the country’s trafficking and slaughter of 6 million dogs and cats for meat every year, if his recent <a href="https://vietnamnews.vn/society/1652087/pm-emphasises-strict-rabies-prevention-and-control.html">Directive</a> to tackle deadly rabies is to be successful.</p>
  45. <p>Rabies is endemic in Viet Nam with government statistics reporting an increase in human deaths, including 82 human rabies-related deaths last year across 30 provinces and cities and 27 deaths in the first three months of 2024. Nearly 70,000 people required rabies prophylaxis treatment. Interaction with dogs through bites as well as dog meat butchery and consumption—are responsible for 99% of rabies transmissions to humans. While the Prime Minister’s Directive rightly calls on provincial authorities to increase dog vaccination rates, global animal welfare experts Humane Society International warn that such efforts will forever be undermined as long as the country’s dog and cat meat trades continue unabated.</p>
  46. <p>Phuong Tham, Viet Nam director for Humane Society International, said: “The most effective way of eradicating rabies in humans is to eliminate the disease in dogs. Mass canine vaccination is therefore vital, but so too is ensuring that those vaccinated dogs remain in their localities so that herd immunity is created. It is virtually impossible to achieve that herd immunity while dog traders are stealing and trafficking millions of dogs around the country. Every single month in Viet Nam there are tens of thousands of dogs of unknown disease and vaccination status being stuffed into trucks and driven from once province to another, disrupting any potential benefit from canine vaccination and helping to spread new rabies infections. We must also stop the unregulated importation of unvaccinated, and possibly rabies infected dogs from neighbouring countries including Cambodia and Laos, which threatens provincial rabies control programs.”</p>
  47. <p>Recommendations from leading human and animal health experts―including the World Health Organization, Global Alliance for Rabies Control, World Organisation for Animal Health, Pan American Health Organization and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United States ―stipulate that mass dog vaccination must happen in lockstep with restricting mass dog movements so that a sufficiently high level of rabies vaccination coverage remains in the stable dog population to interrupt rabies transmission.</p>
  48. <p>Dr. Katherine Polak, veterinarian and HSI’s vice president of companion animals, says: “Allowing the dog and cat meat trades to continue essentially unravels all the hard work of vaccination programs and puts humans throughout the supply and demand chain in direct contact with potentially rabies-infected dogs and cats. So while we very much welcome Prime Minister Chính’s Directive, we urge him to go further and bring forward a nationwide ban on the dog and cat meat trades. The recent ban in South Korea on the dog meat industry there demonstrates that where there is political will, we can achieve great strides forward to protect people and animals.”</p>
  49. <p>HSI also calls on the Ministry of Information and Communications to include anti-dog meat trade messaging in its public awareness raising outreach to ensure that the public is aware of how much such activities increase the risk of rabies transmission.</p>
  50. <p>There is considerable evidence spanning decades from throughout Asia of the link between the dog meat trade and rabies transmission. Studies from Viet Nam, China and Indonesia have shown that rabies-positive dogs and carcasses often appear in markets and slaughterhouses. In one study in Viet Nam, 16.4% of samples tested positive. The movement of different strains of the rabies virus in dogs being traded for human consumption has also been tracked. There have been a number of human rabies deaths in Viet Nam directly linked to slaughtering, butchering, handling and consumption of meat from infected dogs. For example, in 2007 in Ba Vi a rabies outbreak saw 30% of human deaths linked to exposure during the slaughter and butchery of dogs, according to the Department of Animal Health.</p>
  51. <p>HSI’s team in Viet Nam has been campaigning to end the dog and cat meat trades since 2020. Most recently, the charity expanded its Models for Change program in South Korea helping dog meat farmers transition out of the industry, to also include dog and cat meat slaughterhouses and restaurants in Viet Nam. The program facilitates the transition of dog and cat meat-related businesses in Dong Hai and Thai Nguyen in addition to which HSI now has a three-year agreement with the government in both provinces to advance an holistic approach to tackling rabies through a rabies vaccination program, humane dog population management, public awareness campaigns to discourage dog and cat meat consumption, and law enforcement of anti-dog and cat trafficking activities.</p>
  52. <h5>Dog meat facts:</h5>
  53. <ul>
  54. <li>On 14 March 2024, the Prime Minister issued Directive No. 22/CD-TTg calling on provincial authorities to establish local taskforces to implement rabies prevention and control measures. Those localities with low dog/cat rabies vaccination rates were advised to expand coverage.</li>
  55. <li>A recent Nielsen opinion poll (Aug – Sept 2023) commissioned by HSI found that around one quarter of the population (24%) had consumed dog meat (thịt chó) in the last year, most notably in north Viet Nam (40%). A significant proportion of respondents support a ban &#8211; 64% and 68% respectively support banning dog meat consumption and trade, while 71% equally support banning cat meat consumption and trade.</li>
  56. <li>HSI research shows that dog meat is not an expensive delicacy, costing from 150,000 – 200,000 VND ($6 &#8211; $8) per dish in Thai Nguyen.</li>
  57. <li>While the sale and consumption of dog meat is not illegal in Viet Nam, both the unregulated trans-provincial movement of dogs and pet theft are punishable offences. Officials in several cities including Hanoi and Hoi An have pledged to end the trade, but law enforcement is rare.</li>
  58. <li><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21937820/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Data</a> from Viet Nam’s National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology shows that a significant proportion of patients become infected with the rabies virus after killing, butchering or eating dogs, as well as from bites.</li>
  59. <li>Studies of brain samples of dogs collected from slaughterhouses in <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33973381/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">northern</a> and <a href="https://www.ijvets.com/pdf-files/23-155.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">southern</a> provinces have also tested positive for the rabies virus.</li>
  60. <li>In 2018 and 2019, the authorities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City respectively urged citizens not to consume dog meat to reduce their risk of disease transmission.</li>
  61. </ul>
  62. <p>Download video and photos of <a href="https://newsroom.humanesociety.org/fetcher/index.php?searchMerlin=1&amp;searchBrightcove=1&amp;submitted=1&amp;mw=d&amp;q=VNModelsforChange1023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HSI closing down a dog slaughterhouse</a>.</p>
  63. <p>ENDS</p>
  64. <ul>
  65. <li>HSI Global: Wendy Higgins, director of international media: <a href="mailto:whiggins@hsi.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">whiggins@hsi.org</a></li>
  66. <li>HSI in Việt Nam: Thẩm Phượng, director: <a href="mailto:phuongth@hsi.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">phuongth@hsi.org</a></li>
  67. </ul>
  68. <p>The post <a href="https://www.hsi.org/news-resources/viet-nam-must-end-the-dog-meat-trade-if-prime-ministers-directive-to-tackle-rabies-is-to-succeed-warns-humane-society-international/">Viet Nam must end the dog meat trade if Prime Minister’s Directive to tackle rabies is to succeed, warns Humane Society International</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.hsi.org">Humane Society International</a>.</p>
  69. ]]></content:encoded>
  70. </item>
  71. <item>
  72. <title>Third &#8216;super tusker&#8217; elephant killed in Tanzania within the past six months</title>
  73. <link>https://www.hsi.org/news-resources/third-super-tusker-elephant-killed-in-tanzania-within-the-past-six-months/</link>
  74. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Cassie Bodin-Duval]]></dc:creator>
  75. <pubDate>Tue, 12 Mar 2024 09:05:56 +0000</pubDate>
  76. <category><![CDATA[Press Release]]></category>
  77. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.hsi.org/?p=103688</guid>
  78.  
  79. <description><![CDATA[<p>CAPE TOWN, South Africa—It has been reported that another “super tusker” elephant bull, from the Amboseli elephant population, has been...</p>
  80. <p>The post <a href="https://www.hsi.org/news-resources/third-super-tusker-elephant-killed-in-tanzania-within-the-past-six-months/">Third &#8216;super tusker&#8217; elephant killed in Tanzania within the past six months</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.hsi.org">Humane Society International</a>.</p>
  81. ]]></description>
  82. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure id="attachment_103689" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-103689" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><img decoding="async" src="https://www.hsi.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/HSI-Makalali-157_414844-300x265.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="265" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-103689" class="wp-caption-text"><span class="section__credit">Waldo Swiegers/AP Images for Humane Society International</span> Not the elephant referenced. This mature elephant bull is<span class="section__caption"> seen during an afternoon game drive on Wednesday, March 21, 2018 at the Makalali Game Reserve, South Africa.</span></figcaption></figure>
  83. <p>CAPE TOWN, South Africa—It has been <a href="https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/super-tuskers-elephants-killed-trophy-hunters-tanzania-t89608w2h" target="_blank" rel="noopener">reported</a> that another “super tusker” elephant bull, from the Amboseli elephant population, has been shot and killed in the Enduimet Wildlife Management Area in Tanzania. The killing took place during a hunting expedition operated by Kilombero North Safaris and allegedly involved a prominent American trophy hunter from Texas. A <a href="https://elephantvoices.org/latest-news-updates/enewsletters/the-amboseli-elephants-an-appeal-to-end-elephant-trophy-hunting-in-the-enduimet-area-of-tanzania.html?fbclid=IwAR1CDOecnKGCIuuf7FmT8npmhCn-ua1F5pkB5FEYvBgZpN_jmkbxTiANDxs" target="_blank" rel="noopener">statement</a> revealed that ”as of 10 March, a further three licenses are said to have been granted raising alarm and putting the integrity of the Amboseli elephant population in jeopardy”.</p>
  84. <p>This is reportedly the third “super tusker” gunned down near the Tanzanian-Kenyan border within the past six months. “Super tuskers,” also known as “hundred-pounder” elephants, are male elephants with at least one tusk weighing 100 pounds (45kg). It is believed that there are as few as <a href="https://africageographic.com/stories/trophy-hunted-two-super-tuskers-in-tanzania/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">50 left</a> in Africa. They are critically important for stability in elephant societies and their habitats and ecosystems.</p>
  85. <p>Dr Audrey Delsink, elephant behaviour expert and wildlife director for Humane Society International/Africa, says, &#8220;It is beyond comprehension that yet another of Africa&#8217;s iconic ‘super tuskers’ has fallen victim to the relentless pursuit of trophy hunters. The intrinsic value that these bulls bring to elephant society through their genetics, as repositories of social knowledge and as keystones of the environment, is irreplaceable. Mature bulls are crucial influencers within the population, holding significant importance for the future of younger males.”</p>
  86. <p>“It is a myth that they are expendable as they approach 40+ years of age. This is not the end of their breeding lives but rather when they are at their highest reproductive success, and they should not be senselessly cut down in their prime. The killing of these iconic animals isn&#8217;t just a biological travesty but a moral tragedy and a stain on humanity&#8217;s conscience,&#8221; Delsink explained.</p>
  87. <p>ElephantVoices, Big Life Foundation and the Amboseli Trust for Elephants, released a <a href="https://elephantvoices.org/latest-news-updates/enewsletters/the-amboseli-elephants-an-appeal-to-end-elephant-trophy-hunting-in-the-enduimet-area-of-tanzania.html?fbclid=IwAR1CDOecnKGCIuuf7FmT8npmhCn-ua1F5pkB5FEYvBgZpN_jmkbxTiANDxs" target="_blank" rel="noopener">statement</a> appealing for “an end to elephant trophy hunting in the Enduimet Area of Tanzania”.  “The Amboseli population includes adult males with some of the largest tusks on the continent due to the particular genetic makeup of these elephants,” the statement reads. “Approximately 30 adult male elephants, over the age of 25 years, use the Enduimet area and beyond in Tanzania as part of their home range. For half a century Enduimet has been a favourite area for a particular set of adult males.”</p>
  88. <p>Elephants are listed under Appendix II of the Convention on Migratory Species, to which both Kenya and Tanzania are parties. The listing encourages collaboration between countries to achieve conservation and management targets for listed species. Since 1995 a moratorium on trophy hunting of this cross-border elephant population between Kenya and Tanzania was agreed between the nations. After nearly 30 years, this moratorium was shattered when two “super tuskers” were killed south of the border in Tanzania, prior to this third killing.</p>
  89. <p><a href="https://besjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/1365-2656.13035" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Studies</a> have found that with age, male elephants dedicate more of their energy toward reproducing. Mature bull elephants like these “super tuskers” will travel <a href="https://www.savetheelephants.org/news/the-older-you-get-the-harder-you-seek-the-mating-secrets-of-africa-s-bull-elephants-2/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">twice as fast and three times as far</a> when they are in musth—the periodic state of intensive testosterone-fuelled sexual activity. Thus, the “conscious selection” of older “surplus” males being targeted by hunters has detrimental effects on the wider elephant society and can lead to a population collapse or long-lasting negative population changes. The biased removal of these older Amboseli bulls through trophy hunting poses a massive threat to these migratory animals.</p>
  90. <p>Mature elephant bulls also act as role models for younger males. The killing of dominant elephant bulls results in the loss of vital social knowledge and experience from which these younger animals learn. Without leadership, the young bulls may navigate into risky environments and become more aggressive, resulting in physical interactions and associated injuries, and even increased human-wildlife conflict.</p>
  91. <p>Dr Joyce Poole, co-founder and Scientific Director of ElephantVoices, says, “Fifty years of research on Amboseli&#8217;s known individuals has shown that males between 35 and 55 years of age are the primary breeders. Hunters who claim that older males are &#8220;dead wood&#8221; are just plain ignorant of the science. Males who are given the chance to live to an old age produce a disproportionate number of offspring, passing their genes to the next generation. By killing large tusked males hunters are damaging elephant society, negatively impacting Amboseli&#8217;s rare gene pool for large tusks and taking a toll on its future tourism potential.&#8221;</p>
  92. <p>After a hunt, it is common for parts of the elephant to be taken and claimed as trophies. It is alleged that in this instance, the elephant’s carcass was intentionally destroyed through burning, to hide the travesty of making this bull yet another statistic in the ever-declining, already fragile “super tusker” elephant population.</p>
  93. <p>ENDS</p>
  94. <p>Media contact: Leozette Roode, HSI/Africa media and communications specialist, +27 (0)71 360 1104</p>
  95. <p>The post <a href="https://www.hsi.org/news-resources/third-super-tusker-elephant-killed-in-tanzania-within-the-past-six-months/">Third &#8216;super tusker&#8217; elephant killed in Tanzania within the past six months</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.hsi.org">Humane Society International</a>.</p>
  96. ]]></content:encoded>
  97. </item>
  98. <item>
  99. <title>‘Huge Victory’ for wildlife celebrated by animal protection, environmental groups as health Canada announces strychnine poisoning ban</title>
  100. <link>https://www.hsi.org/news-resources/health-canada-announces-strychnine-poisoning-ban/</link>
  101. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Megan Mersino]]></dc:creator>
  102. <pubDate>Thu, 07 Mar 2024 19:05:01 +0000</pubDate>
  103. <category><![CDATA[Press Release]]></category>
  104. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.hsi.org/?p=103603</guid>
  105.  
  106. <description><![CDATA[<p>OTTAWA, Ontario—Wolf Awareness, WeHowl, Animal Justice, the International Fund for Animal Welfare, Humane Society International/Canada and Animal Alliance of Canada...</p>
  107. <p>The post <a href="https://www.hsi.org/news-resources/health-canada-announces-strychnine-poisoning-ban/">‘Huge Victory’ for wildlife celebrated by animal protection, environmental groups as health Canada announces strychnine poisoning ban</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.hsi.org">Humane Society International</a>.</p>
  108. ]]></description>
  109. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure id="attachment_40688" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-40688" style="width: 325px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><img decoding="async" src="https://www.hsi.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/wolf-Germany-532253.jpg" alt="Wolf in the snow" width="325" height="169" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-40688" class="wp-caption-text"><span class="section__caption">Marco Arduino/Alamy Stock Photo</span></figcaption></figure>
  110. <p><span data-contrast="auto">OTTAWA, Ontario—Wolf Awareness, WeHowl, Animal Justice, the International Fund for Animal Welfare, Humane Society International/Canada and Animal Alliance of Canada are applauding a </span><a href="https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/consumer-product-safety/reports-publications/pesticides-pest-management/decisions-updates/reevaluation-decision/2024/predacide-uses-strychnine-sodium-monofluoroacetate.html"><span data-contrast="none">decision</span></a><span data-contrast="auto"> by Health Canada&#8217;s Pest Management Regulatory Agency to cease the use of the poison strychnine for killing wild animals, including wolves, coyotes and black bears.</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  111. <p><span data-contrast="auto">The decision to cancel the registration of products containing this dangerous poison follows years of advocacy and campaigning, including a </span><a href="https://animaljustice.ca/media-releases/animal-protection-environmental-groups-urge-canada-to-ban-use-of-poisons-to-kill-wolves-other-wildlife"><span data-contrast="none">request</span></a><span data-contrast="auto"> for special review of strychnine and other predacides filed by a coalition of groups in December 2020. Today’s decision reverses the PMRA’s initial </span><a href="https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/consumer-product-safety/pesticides-pest-management/public/consultations/proposed-re-evaluation-decisions/2022/predacide-uses-strychnine-sodium-monofluoroacetate/document.html"><span data-contrast="none">proposal</span></a><span data-contrast="auto"> in August 2022 to allow the continued use of both strychnine and Compound 1080. That proposed decision was widely condemned by animal protection and conservation groups because of the cruel nature of these indiscriminate poisons and the serious harm that they cause to the environment.  </span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  112. <p><span data-contrast="auto">Strychnine is notorious for causing some of the most agonizing symptoms of any poison, including muscular convulsions that can last up to 24 hours or longer before an animal finally succumbs to exhaustion or suffocation. Due to its gruesome nature, it featured prominently in Agatha Christie murder mystery novels.</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  113. <p><span data-contrast="auto">In addition to the unnecessary pain the poison inflicts on its intended targets, it is known to recklessly kill hundreds of non-target animals each year, including companion dogs, birds of prey and endangered species. These animals suffer and die after consuming poison baits or from consuming the bodies of other poisoned animals.</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  114. <p><span data-contrast="auto">“This decision is a huge victory for wild animals across Canada,” said Kaitlyn Mitchell, director of legal advocacy with Animal Justice. “Strychnine is among the most gruesome poisons in existence. We are thrilled that animals will no longer endure the agony of strychnine poisoning on the Canadian landscape.”   </span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  115. <p><span data-contrast="none">&#8220;Strychnine not only kills the intended wolves, coyotes, black bears and skunks,” said Hannah Barron, conservation director with Wolf Awareness. “It also kills countless other animals unintentionally, including golden eagles, lynx, ravens, grizzly bears and companion dogs, to name a few. Getting rid of this indiscriminate poison gets Canada one step closer to meeting its biodiversity targets under the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.&#8221; </span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  116. <p><span data-contrast="none">&#8220;There is a growing body of scientific evidence showing that lethal removal of large carnivores, including through poisoning, is not an effective way to reduce predation on livestock,” said Sadie Parr,</span><span data-contrast="none"> organizer</span><span data-contrast="none"> of WeHowl. “There are more effective ways to prevent conflicts, which are also more ethical and environmentally responsible. Many Canadians are already using such methods with success.&#8221;</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  117. <p><span data-contrast="auto">“Canada’s use of strychnine to kill wildlife is an issue that attracted the attention of hundreds of thousands of concerned citizens in Canada and beyond. We are thrilled that Health Canada has reversed their previous decision, and finally canceled all uses of strychnine” said Sheryl Fink, director of Canadian wildlife issues with IFAW. </span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  118. <p><span data-contrast="auto">“</span><span data-contrast="none">I want to thank the Minister of Health and the folks at the Pest Management Regulatory Agency for banning the use of strychnine in Canada,” said Liz White, director of Animal Alliance of Canada. “No longer will this predacide be spread on the landscape indiscriminately killing wolves, coyotes and many other wild animals.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  119. <p><span data-contrast="none">&#8220;We are thrilled with Health Canada&#8217;s decision to ban this deplorable poison, which has no place in wildlife management,” said Kelly Butler, wildlife campaign manager at Humane Society International/Canada. “This ban will spare so many animals from horrific, prolonged and needless deaths and we commend the government for taking this step towards improving welfare outcomes for wildlife and removing poisons from Canada&#8217;s ecosystems.&#8221;</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  120. <p><span data-contrast="auto">While the animal protection and environmental groups are relieved following PMRA’s decision to end the use of strychnine by September, it remains urgent for the PMRA to also ban Compound 1080, another poison also used to kill wolves and coyotes. It causes vomiting, convulsions, intense pain and hallucinations to animals who ingest it, and is unacceptably cruel.</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  121. <p><span data-contrast="auto">Similar to strychnine, the effects of Compound 1080 can last hours or even days before an animal dies from cardiac failure or respiratory arrest.</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  122. <p><span data-contrast="auto">According to a national Environics poll commissioned by Wolf Awareness, Animal Alliance and Animal Justice, 69% of Canadians say that the risks posed by strychnine and Compound 1080 used in Canadian wildlife management programs are unacceptable.</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  123. <p><span data-contrast="auto">-30-</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  124. <p><span data-contrast="auto">Media Contacts:</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  125. <p>&nbsp;</p>
  126. <p><span data-contrast="auto">Sadie Parr</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  127. <p><span data-contrast="auto">Wolf researcher/advocate and Organizer of WeHowl</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  128. <p><a href="mailto:sadieparrwolfpact@gmail.com"><span data-contrast="none">sadieparrwolfpact@gmail.com</span></a><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  129. <p><span data-contrast="auto">250-272-4695</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  130. <p><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  131. <p><span data-contrast="auto">Hannah Barron</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  132. <p><span data-contrast="auto">Conservation Director, Wolf Awareness</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  133. <p><a href="mailto:hannah@wolfawareness.org"><span data-contrast="none">hannah@wolfawareness.org</span></a><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  134. <p><span data-contrast="auto">647-567-8337</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  135. <p><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  136. <p><span data-contrast="auto">Kaitlyn Mitchell</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  137. <p><span data-contrast="auto">Director of Legal Advocacy, Animal Justice</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  138. <p><a href="mailto:kmitchell@animaljustice.ca"><span data-contrast="none">kmitchell@animaljustice.ca</span></a><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  139. <p><span data-contrast="auto">647-764-8702</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  140. <p><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  141. <p><span data-contrast="auto">Sheryl Fink</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  142. <p><span data-contrast="auto">Director, Canadian Wildlife Campaigns. IFAW Canada</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  143. <p><a href="mailto:sifnk@ifaw.org"><span data-contrast="none">sifnk@ifaw.org</span></a><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  144. <p><span data-contrast="auto">519-830-0046</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  145. <p><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  146. <p><span data-contrast="auto">Kelly Butler</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  147. <p><span data-contrast="auto">Wildlife Campaign Manager, Humane Society International/Canada</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  148. <p><a href="mailto:kbutler@hsi.org"><span data-contrast="none">kbutler@hsi.org</span></a><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  149. <p><span data-contrast="auto">514 914-7607</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}"> </span></p>
  150. <p>The post <a href="https://www.hsi.org/news-resources/health-canada-announces-strychnine-poisoning-ban/">‘Huge Victory’ for wildlife celebrated by animal protection, environmental groups as health Canada announces strychnine poisoning ban</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.hsi.org">Humane Society International</a>.</p>
  151. ]]></content:encoded>
  152. </item>
  153. <item>
  154. <title>Environmental Crime Directive given more teeth to protect wildlife</title>
  155. <link>https://www.hsi.org/news-resources/environmental-crime-directive-given-more-teeth-to-protect-wildlife/</link>
  156. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Cassie Bodin-Duval]]></dc:creator>
  157. <pubDate>Tue, 27 Feb 2024 09:10:46 +0000</pubDate>
  158. <category><![CDATA[Press Release]]></category>
  159. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.hsi.org/?p=103332</guid>
  160.  
  161. <description><![CDATA[<p>BRUSSELS— Today, the European Parliament approved the revised Environment Crime Directive, strengthening the EU&#8217;s approach to addressing environmental crime. This...</p>
  162. <p>The post <a href="https://www.hsi.org/news-resources/environmental-crime-directive-given-more-teeth-to-protect-wildlife/">Environmental Crime Directive given more teeth to protect wildlife</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.hsi.org">Humane Society International</a>.</p>
  163. ]]></description>
  164. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure id="attachment_14767" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-14767" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.hsi.org/wp-content/uploads/975x-for-press-releases/elephants-and-ivory/HSNYC015_385723_975X_IVORY_CRUSH_3-e1566494581340-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-14767" class="wp-caption-text"><span class="section__credit">Mark Von Holden/AP Images for the HSUS</span></figcaption></figure>
  165. <p>BRUSSELS— Today, the European Parliament approved the revised Environment Crime Directive, strengthening the EU&#8217;s approach to addressing environmental crime. This decision, endorsing the compromise agreement reached between the Council of the European Union and the European Commission in November 2023, marks a significant step towards better protecting wildlife and habitats. The updated legislation equips authorities with enhanced tools to tackle serious environmental offenses and deter criminals, including wildlife traffickers. Humane Society International/Europe welcomes the European Parliament’s adoption of the revised Environment Crime Directive as a positive step to ensure better protection of wildlife and the environment.</p>
  166. <p>Environmental crime stands as the third most lucrative organised criminal activities in the world, growing at a rate of <a href="https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/infographics/eu-fight-environmental-crime-2022/"> </a>. It contributes significantly to biodiversity loss, increases the risk of zoonotic diseases, and has serious negative socio-economic impacts, particularly in countries where animals and wildlife products are sourced. Despite its considerable profitability, detecting, prosecuting and penalizing environmental crime offenses has proven to be  challenging.</p>
  167. <p>A 2019-2020 evaluation revealed that the effectiveness of the initial EU Directive (2008) addressing environmental protection via criminal law was limited. Few cases resulted in sentences, imposed sanctions were too low to deter criminals, and cross-border cooperation was not consistently occurring. Recognising these shortcomings, the European Commission presented in 2021 a proposal aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of the Directive.</p>
  168. <p>Dr Joanna Swabe, senior director of public affairs for Humane Society International/Europe, said:</p>
  169. <p>“The revised Environmental Crime Directive, although not perfect, does respond to societal demands for environmental crime to be taken more seriously. The legislation will now allow more stringent penalties to be imposed on those who commit the most serious criminal offences against the environment, and will hopefully serve as a deterrent to all those considering partaking in crimes against animals, such as wildlife trafficking. We also warmly welcome the fact that underwater noise pollution has been included in the list of criminal offences. This poses a significant threat to the welfare of marine mammals, especially cetaceans, since it disrupts their ability to communicate and navigate properly. We are glad that this threat to marine wildlife has been recognised.”</p>
  170. <p>Over the past few years, HSI/Europe has worked closely with other animal and environmental protection organisations to ensure that the EU legislation on environmental crime, which was originally passed in 2008, was significantly strengthened. Amongst other things, the revised Environmental Crime Directive now:</p>
  171. <ul>
  172. <li>Introduces common sanction levels for both natural and legal persons.</li>
  173. <li>Provides a far more comprehensive list of environmental offences to be criminalised in Member States than in the original legislation, although fails to include one the most lucrative environmental crimes, namely illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing.</li>
  174. <li>Includes Annex C species of the EU Wildlife Trade Regulations, thereby broadening the scope of the Directive to cover, for example, threatened endemic species.</li>
  175. <li>Offers additional tools for national prosecutors through legal guidance and national strategies.</li>
  176. <li>While stopping short of using the term ecocide, it introduces a “qualified offence” for the most serious environmental crimes, which cause widespread and substantial damage to the environment that could be irreversible or long-lasting.</li>
  177. <li>Enables the involvement of civil society organisations and ordinary citizens to help combat environmental offenses, effectively asserting their legitimacy in exposing environmental crimes and marking a first step toward protecting them from intimidation or litigation when reporting such crimes or assisting investigations.</li>
  178. <li>Strengthens data collection provisions to assist Member States&#8217; reporting practices.</li>
  179. <li>Recognises the need for enhanced specialisation, training and resources for competent enforcement and judicial authorities.</li>
  180. </ul>
  181. <p>Media contact: Yavor Gechev, communications director for HSI/Europe, <a href="mailto:ygechev@hsi.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ygechev@hsi.org</a> ; +359889468098 ; +393515266629</p>
  182. <p>The post <a href="https://www.hsi.org/news-resources/environmental-crime-directive-given-more-teeth-to-protect-wildlife/">Environmental Crime Directive given more teeth to protect wildlife</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.hsi.org">Humane Society International</a>.</p>
  183. ]]></content:encoded>
  184. </item>
  185. <item>
  186. <title>Lucknow hits 70% street dog sterilization and vaccination success on World Spay Day</title>
  187. <link>https://www.hsi.org/news-resources/lucknow-hits-70-street-dog-sterilization-and-vaccination-success-on-world-spay-day/</link>
  188. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Cassie Bodin-Duval]]></dc:creator>
  189. <pubDate>Tue, 27 Feb 2024 06:00:43 +0000</pubDate>
  190. <category><![CDATA[Press Release]]></category>
  191. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.hsi.org/?p=103146</guid>
  192.  
  193. <description><![CDATA[<p>LUCKNOW, Uttar Pradesh— On World Spay Day, Humane Society International/India and Lucknow Municipal Corporation celebrate sterilizing and vaccinating 70% of...</p>
  194. <p>The post <a href="https://www.hsi.org/news-resources/lucknow-hits-70-street-dog-sterilization-and-vaccination-success-on-world-spay-day/">Lucknow hits 70% street dog sterilization and vaccination success on World Spay Day</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.hsi.org">Humane Society International</a>.</p>
  195. ]]></description>
  196. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure id="attachment_29666" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-29666" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.hsi.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Dog-closeup-india-Mayur-Waghela-even-smaller-300x168.jpg" alt="Dog in India" width="300" height="168" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-29666" class="wp-caption-text"><span class="section__credit">Mayur Waghela</span></figcaption></figure>
  197. <p>LUCKNOW, Uttar Pradesh— On World Spay Day, Humane Society International/India and Lucknow Municipal Corporation celebrate sterilizing and vaccinating 70% of the street dog population in Lucknow, achieving the goal set forth by the city’s first-ever Animal Birth Control program launched in 2019 by HSI/India. A recent survey conducted by HSI/India reveals that over 73,000 street dogs have been sterilized and vaccinated, effectively curbing street dog population growth and preventing puppies from entering a life of suffering. The sterilization project has succeeded in preventing inhumane population control methods such as culling or relocation.</p>
  198. <p>With the 70% sterilization and vaccination mark achieved, Lucknow is on the path to becoming Uttar Pradesh’s first city that will soon reach 80% sterilization of its street dog population. Vaccinating dogs, supported by effective dog population management, is the <a href="https://www.who.int/southeastasia/health-topics/rabies/rabies-zero-deaths-by-2030" target="_blank" rel="noopener">most cost-effective strategy for preventing rabies in people</a>. On World Spay Day, Lucknow met the 70% vaccination coverage, signaling effective control of canine rabies, as endorsed by the World Health Organization in its <a href="https://www.who.int/southeastasia/health-topics/rabies/rabies-zero-deaths-by-2030" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Rabies &#8211; Zero deaths by 2030 report</a>.</p>
  199. <p>Robust community support has enabled the teams to reach such a high dog sterilization level. “Paving the way for behavioral transformation in societies, community members have played a crucial role”, said Dr. Piyush Patel, Director of Companion Animals and Engagement, HSI/India. “At least 28% of the dogs served by the program, or around 20,000 street dogs, were brought to the Animal Birth Control clinic in Jarhara for spay/neuter services by community members. This indicates that people are now well-aware of the program’s benefits for both humans and dogs. Our next goal is to hit 80%,” he added.</p>
  200. <p>Dr. Patel envisions Lucknow serving as a national model, a &#8220;training and learning&#8221; hub, and an inspiration to other Indian cities. &#8220;Along with high-volume dog sterilization, active community education through workshops on rabies awareness and dog behavior has been the key to achieving this milestone,” said Dr. Arvind Rao, additional commissioner, of Lucknow Municipal Corporation.</p>
  201. <p>HSI/India’s “walk-in Saturdays” made accessible to communities sterilization and vaccination of street dogs by making these services free every Saturday. Dr. Rao added: “Our city will benefit from our proactive actions. I urge every citizen in Lucknow to bring their unsterilized dogs for spaying and vaccination, to improve dog welfare, rabies control and create healthy communities.”</p>
  202. <p>Media contact: Shaili Shah, <a href="mailto:sshah@hsi.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">sshah@hsi.org </a>; 993-059-1005</p>
  203. <p>The post <a href="https://www.hsi.org/news-resources/lucknow-hits-70-street-dog-sterilization-and-vaccination-success-on-world-spay-day/">Lucknow hits 70% street dog sterilization and vaccination success on World Spay Day</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.hsi.org">Humane Society International</a>.</p>
  204. ]]></content:encoded>
  205. </item>
  206. <item>
  207. <title>Wings of progress for better welfare</title>
  208. <link>https://www.hsi.org/news-resources/malaysias-first-cage-free-aviary/</link>
  209. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Kristin Stone]]></dc:creator>
  210. <pubDate>Fri, 23 Feb 2024 15:54:55 +0000</pubDate>
  211. <category><![CDATA[Resource]]></category>
  212. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.hsi.org/?p=103254</guid>
  213.  
  214. <description><![CDATA[<p>Join us as we celebrate Malaysia&#8217;s huge step forward in animal welfare at a signing ceremony for Malaysia&#8217;s first cage-free...</p>
  215. <p>The post <a href="https://www.hsi.org/news-resources/malaysias-first-cage-free-aviary/">Wings of progress for better welfare</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.hsi.org">Humane Society International</a>.</p>
  216. ]]></description>
  217. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure id="attachment_103241" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-103241" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.hsi.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Chickens-Malaysia-S-Kumar-e1709823800768.jpeg" alt="Cage-free chickens in Malaysia" width="300" height="200" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-103241" class="wp-caption-text"><span class="section__credit">HSI</span></figcaption></figure>
  218. <p>Join us as we celebrate Malaysia&#8217;s huge step forward in animal welfare at a signing ceremony for Malaysia&#8217;s first cage-free aviary.</p>
  219. <p><strong>Friday, March 22, 2024</strong></p>
  220. <p><strong>Bunga Room, Seri Pacific Kuala Lumpur</strong></p>
  221. <p><a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/wings-of-progress-for-better-welfare-tickets-853170013477" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Register</a></p>
  222. <p><strong>Schedule:</strong></p>
  223. <p>2.30pm-3.00pm: Registration and welcome coffee</p>
  224. <p>3.00pm-3.05pm: Welcome message by Dr Saravanakumar S. Pillai, Senior Adviser, Farm Animal Welfare, Policy and Engagement, Humane Society International, Farm Animal Welfare and Protection</p>
  225. <p>3.10pm-3.15pm: Opening address by Dr Sara Shields, Director, Farm Animal Welfare Science, Humane Society International, Farm Animal Welfare and Protection</p>
  226. <p>3.20pm-3.25pm: JDE Peet’s Global Animal Welfare Policy by Dr Laurent Sagarra, Vice-President Sustainability, JDE Peet’s</p>
  227. <p>3.30pm-3.35pm: OldTown White Coffee’s Cage-Free Egg Implementation Progress by Dawn Liew, General Manager, Food &amp; Beverage, OldTown White Coffee</p>
  228. <p>3.40pm-3.45pm: Beacon Mart Cage-Free Egg Commitment Announcement by Chew Hsien Loong, CEO Beacon Mart</p>
  229. <p>3.50pm-3.55pm: Internet of Things (IoT) Enabled Cage Free Aviary Systems by Mr Han Hofstede, Head of Region Asia &amp; India, Big Dutchman</p>
  230. <p>4.00pm-4.05pm: The Journey to Better Hen Welfare by Tiew Siew Sien, Managing Director, Teong Choon TC Poultry Farm</p>
  231. <p>4.10pm- 4.30pm: Panel discussion</p>
  232. <p>4:35pm- 4.45pm: Arrival of Deputy Minister of National Unity, Senator Saraswathy Kandasami</p>
  233. <p>5.05pm-5.15pm: Memorandum of Understanding Signings (witnessed by Deputy Minister)</p>
  234. <ul>
  235. <li>Teong Choon Poultry Farm and OldTown White Coffee</li>
  236. <li>Teong Choon Poultry Farm and Beacon Mart</li>
  237. <li>Teong Choon Poultry Farm and Big Dutchman</li>
  238. </ul>
  239. <p>5.20pm -5.30pm: Keynote speech by Deputy Minister Senator, Saraswathy Kandasami, and launching of the first cage-free aviary in Malaysia</p>
  240. <p>5.30pm-5.35pm: Video presentation: Teong Choon Poultry Farm’s cage-free journey</p>
  241. <p>5.40pm-5.45pm Certificate Presentation: Malaysia First Cage-Free Aviary System Egg Producer by Malaysia Book of Record</p>
  242. <p>5.50pm- 6.00pm Press conference by Deputy Minister</p>
  243. <p>5.50pm-6.00pm High tea for attendees</p>
  244. <p>6:00pm: Event end</p>
  245. <p>The post <a href="https://www.hsi.org/news-resources/malaysias-first-cage-free-aviary/">Wings of progress for better welfare</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.hsi.org">Humane Society International</a>.</p>
  246. ]]></content:encoded>
  247. </item>
  248. <item>
  249. <title>Almost 100,000 pets in Ukraine will have received lifesaving aid by end of 2024, thanks to Humane Society International and Ukrainian Red Cross war response</title>
  250. <link>https://www.hsi.org/news-resources/almost-100000-pets-in-ukraine-will-have-received-lifesaving-aid-by-end-of-2024-thanks-to-humane-society-international-and-ukrainian-red-cross-war-response/</link>
  251. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Erica Heffner]]></dc:creator>
  252. <pubDate>Thu, 22 Feb 2024 21:41:10 +0000</pubDate>
  253. <category><![CDATA[Press Release]]></category>
  254. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.hsi.org/?p=103239</guid>
  255.  
  256. <description><![CDATA[<p>BRUSSELS―Animal protection charity Humane Society International and humanitarian agency the Ukrainian Red Cross will reach their goal of having helped...</p>
  257. <p>The post <a href="https://www.hsi.org/news-resources/almost-100000-pets-in-ukraine-will-have-received-lifesaving-aid-by-end-of-2024-thanks-to-humane-society-international-and-ukrainian-red-cross-war-response/">Almost 100,000 pets in Ukraine will have received lifesaving aid by end of 2024, thanks to Humane Society International and Ukrainian Red Cross war response</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.hsi.org">Humane Society International</a>.</p>
  258. ]]></description>
  259. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure id="attachment_103241" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-103241" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.hsi.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/photo_2_2023-05-26_11-59-15_635408-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-103241" class="wp-caption-text"><span class="section__credit">Ukrainian Red Cross</span></figcaption></figure>
  260. <p>BRUSSELS―Animal protection charity Humane Society International and humanitarian agency the Ukrainian Red Cross will reach their goal of having helped 100,000 dogs, cats and other pets and 40,000 pet guardians in war-torn Ukraine by the end of 2024 since their collaboration first began two years ago. The organizations have been working together to provide lifesaving aid such as pet food, veterinary care and supplies for pets and support for their owners internally displaced or otherwise affected by conflict in Ukraine.</p>
  261. <p>So far, the partnership has provided emergency relief in 14 regions across Ukraine, reaching over 19,000 pet guardians and 40,000 pets and delivering over 205 tonnes of pet food. In addition, 48 tonnes of cat litter, 3,530 litter boxes, 2,500 pet carriers and 9,000 packages of flea and tick prevention have been distributed to help dogs and cats in need. To reach their goal, the HSI/URC program will expand its outreach to three more regions, Zakarpattia,  Kharkiv and Sumy, to ensure that aid reaches those in need across Ukraine.</p>
  262. <p>Ruud Tombrock, executive director of Humane Society International/Europe, said: “As the conflict in Ukraine persists, both people and animals are enduring unimaginable hardships side by side. Pets are family, and in such dire circumstances they provide comfort and a sense of normality. We are grateful for the recognition by the Ukrainian Red Cross that the welfare of animals during times of war is intricately linked with the well-being of the people who cherish and depend on them. We are committed to keeping people and pets together.”</p>
  263. <p>In the two years since Russia invaded Ukraine, the war has displaced over 11 million people, including 5 million inside the country, many of whom refuse to evacuate without their pets. To help these people and their animals, the joint efforts of HSI and the URC have provided vital supplies in Kyiv, Khmelnytskyi, Donetsk, Rivne, Zaporizhzhia, Chernihiv, Volyn, Poltava, Zhytomyr, Ternopil, Cherkasy, Chernivtsi, Mykolaiv and Kryvyi Rih. In regions such as Donetsk where congregating in centralized locations poses risks, volunteers from the Red Cross facilitate door-to-door deliveries to ensure the safety of recipients. In select districts, such as the Podil district in Kyiv, additional partnerships enable internally displaced Ukrainians to access complimentary veterinary care.</p>
  264. <p>Maksym Dotsenko, director general of the Ukrainian Red Cross, said: “The Ukrainian Red Cross highly appreciates the support of Humane Society International in providing aid for pets during this difficult time. Being able to stay together with pets is so important for the well-being of our citizens, and this program is helping to make that possible.”</p>
  265. <p>Humane Society International has been helping Ukrainian refugees and their pets since March 2022, providing emergency funding and supplies such as pet food, pet carriers, blankets and <a href="https://www.hsi.org/news-resources/free-veterinary-care-for-pets-of-ukrainian-refugees/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">veterinary care</a>.</p>
  266. <p><a href="https://newsroom.humanesociety.org/fetcher/index.php?searchMerlin=1&amp;searchBrightcove=1&amp;submitted=1&amp;mw=d&amp;q=URCHSI0224" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Download Photos</a></p>
  267. <p>ENDS</p>
  268. <p>Media contact: Wendy Higgins: whiggins@hsi.org</p>
  269. <p>The post <a href="https://www.hsi.org/news-resources/almost-100000-pets-in-ukraine-will-have-received-lifesaving-aid-by-end-of-2024-thanks-to-humane-society-international-and-ukrainian-red-cross-war-response/">Almost 100,000 pets in Ukraine will have received lifesaving aid by end of 2024, thanks to Humane Society International and Ukrainian Red Cross war response</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.hsi.org">Humane Society International</a>.</p>
  270. ]]></content:encoded>
  271. </item>
  272. <item>
  273. <title>UN Convention on the Rights of the Child calls on South African government to ‘protect children against violence of trophy hunting’</title>
  274. <link>https://www.hsi.org/news-resources/un-convention-on-the-rights-of-the-child-calls-on-south-african-government-to-protect-children-against-violence-of-trophy-hunting/</link>
  275. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Cassie Bodin-Duval]]></dc:creator>
  276. <pubDate>Fri, 16 Feb 2024 07:56:59 +0000</pubDate>
  277. <category><![CDATA[Press Release]]></category>
  278. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.hsi.org/?p=103108</guid>
  279.  
  280. <description><![CDATA[<p>CAPE TOWN, South Africa—The United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child has called on the South African government...</p>
  281. <p>The post <a href="https://www.hsi.org/news-resources/un-convention-on-the-rights-of-the-child-calls-on-south-african-government-to-protect-children-against-violence-of-trophy-hunting/">UN Convention on the Rights of the Child calls on South African government to ‘protect children against violence of trophy hunting’</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.hsi.org">Humane Society International</a>.</p>
  282. ]]></description>
  283. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure id="attachment_103109" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-103109" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.hsi.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/man_killed_zebra_FacesBlurred_548616-300x199.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="199" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-103109" class="wp-caption-text"><span class="section__credit">HSUS</span> <span class="section__caption">A hunter posing with a zebra he shot at a captive hunting ranch in South Africa. </span></figcaption></figure>
  284. <p>CAPE TOWN, South Africa—The United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child has called on the South African government to “protect children from the vicarious effects of exposure to violence inflicted on animals such as during Trophy Hunting.” The announcement, on 8 February 2024, follows a <a href="https://tbinternet.ohchr.org/_layouts/15/treatybodyexternal/Download.aspx?symbolno=CRC%2FC%2FZAF%2FCO%2F3-6&amp;Lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">periodic review</a> of children’s rights in South Africa. Humane Society International welcomes the Committee’s recognition of trophy hunting as a violent and harmful activity—not just towards animals but also towards children.</p>
  285. <p>Last year the UN formally <a href="https://docstore.ohchr.org/SelfServices/FilesHandler.ashx?enc=6QkG1d%2FPPRiCAqhKb7yhsqIkirKQZLK2M58RF%2F5F0vHrWghmhzPL092j0u3MJAYhyUPAX9o0tJ4tFwwX4frsfflPka9cgF%2FBur8eYD%2BEeDmuoVnVOpjkzwB9eiDayjZA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">recognised and defined</a> the right of children to freedom from all forms of violence, including <a href="https://www.humanesociety.org/blog/un-recognizes-childrens-right-be-free-exposure-violence-against-animals" target="_blank" rel="noopener">exposure to violence inflicted on animals</a>. On 24 January 2024, during the UNCRC&#8217;s considerations of the periodic reports submitted by the South African Government, Dr Rinchen Chophal, vice chair of the UNCRC commented: “Various psychological studies on violence and animal abuse have shown that witnessing or participating in the violence can severely impact children’s moral and psychological development, besides normalising violence and conditioning life-long negative behavioural patterns. The popular and social acceptance of child participation in animal trophy hunting in the country (South Africa) is horrendous to say the least. Can the State Party enlighten us whether you will, as a matter of urgency, criminalise this practice?”</p>
  286. <p>The UNCRC <a href="https://www.ohchr.org/en/news/2024/01/experts-committee-rights-child-congratulate-south-africa-significant-progress-made" target="_blank" rel="noopener">recorded</a> that: “South Africa took note of the concerns about the effects that trophy hunting could have on children participating in them. South Africa was committed to holding roundtable discussions to address this matter.”</p>
  287. <p><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9679564/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Research</a> shows that witnessing animal abuse is a form of psychological abuse in children. Trophy hunting represents one of many forms of violence towards animals that could cause trauma. Around the world children, especially those from low-income communities, often encounter instances of domestic abuse towards pets, the violent slaughtering of conscious farmed animals, and the cruel extermination of animals considered to be “pests” or that pose a potential health risk to humans, including mice, rats and street dogs. Other activities perpetrating violence against animals include game hunting, culling, poaching, wing shooting and dogfighting, all of which pose harmful exposure to children. With the passage of UN General Comment 26 last year, children now have the right to be protected against witnessing any violence inflicted on any animal, and the South African government has been called on to demonstrate how it will ensure this right.</p>
  288. <p>Dr Matthew Schurch, wildlife specialist for Humane Society International/Africa, stated: “Trophy hunting is cruel and violent to animals and deeply harmful to the children who witness it. The Committee’s statement is a critical starting point to address the wide spectrum of animal cruelty that children in South Africa—and around the world—are exposed to. Promoting compassion and respect towards all animals helps to foster children’s emotional and social skills. Ending exposure to animal cruelty can help prevent the development and normalisation of violent behaviours, towards the animals and also towards people. We look forward to the South African government demonstrating how we will ensure the rights of our children to be protected from all forms of violence towards animals.&#8221;</p>
  289. <p>ENDS</p>
  290. <p>Media contact: Leozette Roode, media specialist, HSI/Africa:+27 71 360 1104; <a href="mailto:LRoode@hsi.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LRoode@hsi.org</a></p>
  291. <p>The post <a href="https://www.hsi.org/news-resources/un-convention-on-the-rights-of-the-child-calls-on-south-african-government-to-protect-children-against-violence-of-trophy-hunting/">UN Convention on the Rights of the Child calls on South African government to ‘protect children against violence of trophy hunting’</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.hsi.org">Humane Society International</a>.</p>
  292. ]]></content:encoded>
  293. </item>
  294. <item>
  295. <title>Dogs and cats are being treated for burns, smoke inhalation and dehydration in aftermath of Chile’s devastating wildfire</title>
  296. <link>https://www.hsi.org/news-resources/dogs-and-cats-are-being-treated-for-burns-smoke-inhalation-and-dehydration-in-aftermath-of-chiles-devastating-wildfire/</link>
  297. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Erica Heffner]]></dc:creator>
  298. <pubDate>Thu, 15 Feb 2024 20:39:48 +0000</pubDate>
  299. <category><![CDATA[Press Release]]></category>
  300. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.hsi.org/?p=103087</guid>
  301.  
  302. <description><![CDATA[<p>VIÑA DEL MAR, Chile—From a makeshift veterinary hospital set up in a local school in the wildfire-impacted city of Viña...</p>
  303. <p>The post <a href="https://www.hsi.org/news-resources/dogs-and-cats-are-being-treated-for-burns-smoke-inhalation-and-dehydration-in-aftermath-of-chiles-devastating-wildfire/">Dogs and cats are being treated for burns, smoke inhalation and dehydration in aftermath of Chile’s devastating wildfire</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.hsi.org">Humane Society International</a>.</p>
  304. ]]></description>
  305. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure id="attachment_103088" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-103088" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.hsi.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/chile-wildlife-rescue_635060-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-103088" class="wp-caption-text"><span class="section__credit">Claudio Ramirez/ For HSI</span></figcaption></figure>
  306. <p>VIÑA DEL MAR, Chile—From a makeshift veterinary hospital set up in a local school in the wildfire-impacted city of Viña del Mar in Chile, the disaster relief team from animal charity <a href="http://www.hsi.org">Humane Society International</a> is helping to treat dogs and cats with distressing injuries.</p>
  307. <p>Animals are brought in with painful burns to their paws and bodies, breathing difficulties from smoke inhalation and infected eyes from falling ash and debris. Animals are also experiencing dehydration and malnutrition from spending days fending for themselves after becoming separated from their families during the fire. Since the hospital was first established after the fire, around 150 animals have received treatment at the hospital, where HSI’s disaster relief team has deployed at the request of the Viña authorities. HSI will also begin search and rescue in more remote areas where they expect to find more animal casualties in need of treatment.</p>
  308. <p>Daniela Sanchez, HSI’s Chile country director, who lives in the local area, said: “The majority of dog and cat casualties are coming into the field hospital with painful skin burns, breathing problems and other issues caused by direct contact with the fires or burning materials. These animals have been through a very frightening ordeal compounded by being separated from the comfort of their families, so we are also treating many of them for shock as well as dehydration and malnutrition. Every day we are seeing desperate locals coming to the hospital searching for their beloved animal companions in the hope of being reunited. We are working hard to make those happy reunions possible so that despite the devastation this fire has caused, at least people and their pets can be together again to help each other get through the trauma.”</p>
  309. <p>Felipe Marquez, HSI Latin America’s disaster response program manager from Mexico, has responded to many disasters and believes that for the sake of both people and animals, there is an increasing need for climate change-related disaster preparedness as such events become more frequent and intense. According to the <a href="https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/press-release/number-wildfires-rise-50-2100-and-governments-are-not-prepared" target="_blank" rel="noopener">United Nations Environment Program</a>, wildfires are likely to increase by up to 14% by 2030 and 50% by 2100 due to climate change and land use change which are leading to “hotter, drier and longer fire seasons.”</p>
  310. <p>HSI’s Marquez says: “Millions of people and animals across the planet, including here in Viña del Mar, are victims of climate change-exacerbated disaster events. This is becoming a more frequent reality for animal rescue teams such as HSI’s which is why we focus a lot on helping communities and local authorities better prepare for the inevitable. For now though, our immediate priority here in Chile is to attend animal casualties, distribute food, water and veterinary supplies, as well as head out on search and rescue to find animals for whom help has not yet come. We know from our field experience responding to earthquakes, wildfires and floods around the world that injured or sick animals can survive for some time by scavenging a little food and water, but without treatment they can succumb to injuries and infections. So, we’re hoping to reach as many as possible and bring them back to the hospital for proper care.”</p>
  311. <p>HSI’s disaster relief team comprise members from Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Mexico and the United States. Between them they have years of experience in animal search and rescue, including during Australia&#8217;s wildfires in 2020 and the earthquakes in Türkiye last year.</p>
  312. <p><a href="https://newsroom.humanesociety.org/fetcher/index.php?searchMerlin=1&amp;searchBrightcove=1&amp;submitted=1&amp;mw=d&amp;q=ChileWildfires0224" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Download Photos/Video </a></p>
  313. <p>ENDS</p>
  314. <p>Media contact: Wendy Higgins, director of international media: <a href="mailto:whiggins@hsi.org">whiggins@hsi.org</a></p>
  315. <p>The post <a href="https://www.hsi.org/news-resources/dogs-and-cats-are-being-treated-for-burns-smoke-inhalation-and-dehydration-in-aftermath-of-chiles-devastating-wildfire/">Dogs and cats are being treated for burns, smoke inhalation and dehydration in aftermath of Chile’s devastating wildfire</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.hsi.org">Humane Society International</a>.</p>
  316. ]]></content:encoded>
  317. </item>
  318. <item>
  319. <title>Global leader in food industry makes progress on commitment to improve animal welfare</title>
  320. <link>https://www.hsi.org/news-resources/global-leader-in-food-industry-makes-progress-on-commitment-to-improve-animal-welfare/</link>
  321. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Erica Heffner]]></dc:creator>
  322. <pubDate>Tue, 13 Feb 2024 19:17:17 +0000</pubDate>
  323. <category><![CDATA[Press Release]]></category>
  324. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.hsi.org/?p=103056</guid>
  325.  
  326. <description><![CDATA[<p>MEXICO CITY—Humane Society International congratulates Grupo Bimbo, a global leader in the food industry, for making meaningful progress toward its...</p>
  327. <p>The post <a href="https://www.hsi.org/news-resources/global-leader-in-food-industry-makes-progress-on-commitment-to-improve-animal-welfare/">Global leader in food industry makes progress on commitment to improve animal welfare</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.hsi.org">Humane Society International</a>.</p>
  328. ]]></description>
  329. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure id="attachment_20087" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-20087" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.hsi.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Cage-free-Chickens-SA-975x-e1580504971364-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-20087" class="wp-caption-text"><span class="section__credit">David Paul Morris</span></figcaption></figure>
  330. <p>MEXICO CITY—Humane Society International congratulates Grupo Bimbo, a global leader in the food industry, for making meaningful progress toward its goal of a 100% cage-free egg supply chain by 2025. The company has also successfully influenced major producers to begin cage-free production in Mexico. For nearly a decade, Grupo Bimbo has actively collaborated with Humane Society International and other non-governmental organizations in Mexico to help facilitate their transition globally.</p>
  331. <p>The market for cage-free eggs in Mexico is rapidly growing, accelerating the shift toward kinder, cage-free systems for raising hens and harvesting their eggs. Over 150 companies in Mexico have committed to stop using eggs from caged hens in their supply chains. This includes major manufacturers such as Grupo Bimbo, restaurants such as Toks and McDonald’s operator Arcos Dorados, hotel operators such as Karisma and Marriott, and many others. Where the market goes, the production follows: the volume of eggs required to fulfill these commitments requires a significant sector shift to cage-free production. Companies like Grupo Bimbo are leading the way by working directly with their suppliers to transition away from using cages to meet their pledge.</p>
  332. <p>Cage-free systems typically offer hens higher levels of welfare by allowing more opportunities for expression of natural behavior such as ground scratching, pecking, dustbathing, nesting, perching and socializing, all of which are not possible in systems that house hens in cages. Hens are sentient, intelligent and sociable animals. <a href="https://www.humanesociety.org/sites/default/files/docs/about-chickens.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Scientific studies</a> have shown that they have a sense of time, can count, learn from their flock mates and anticipate the future, which in turn affects their decision-making. They experience positive emotional states and enjoy social activities.</p>
  333. <p>Grupo Bimbo states, &#8220;It is important to note that we have carried out this process (achieving a 17% progress in our global target) with the support of our allies and various civil society organizations that are experts in the field, including Humane Society International, who have provided us with information and recommendations.&#8221;</p>
  334. <p>Arianna Torres, senior program manager at HSI, said: “The collaborative journey between Grupo Bimbo and HSI underscores the transformative impact that collective efforts can have on shaping a more humane future. HSI has been working with Grupo Bimbo since the beginning, providing trainings to their staff, supporting road map development, bringing companies together to share lessons learned, and helping find suppliers that are willing to transition away from cages globally and throughout Mexico. Grupo Bimbo is demonstrating that companies of all sizes can make significant positive changes for animals.”</p>
  335. <p>Humane Society International is facilitating a successful transition to <a href="https://www.humanesociety.org/sites/default/files/docs/about-chickens.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">higher welfare, cage and crate free housing for farmed animals around the world</a>, by working with corporate buyers, producers and financial institutions.</p>
  336. <p>ENDS</p>
  337. <p>Media Contact: Erica Heffner: eheffner@humanesociety.org</p>
  338. <p>The post <a href="https://www.hsi.org/news-resources/global-leader-in-food-industry-makes-progress-on-commitment-to-improve-animal-welfare/">Global leader in food industry makes progress on commitment to improve animal welfare</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.hsi.org">Humane Society International</a>.</p>
  339. ]]></content:encoded>
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