China
Dog Slaughterhouse Linked To Yulin Trade Closes Permanently
One of the slaughterhouses linked to China’s Yulin dog meat trade has permanently closed after its owners joined a livelihood transition programme supported by animal welfare organisations. Campaigners have described the closure as an important milestone, although they stress that the wider dog meat trade has not ended.
The closure follows years of international campaigning against the Yulin trade, which has become a symbol of the wider dog and cat meat industry in parts of Asia. Organisations involved say helping traders transition to alternative livelihoods can reduce reliance on the trade while improving animal welfare.
While many challenges remain, campaigners believe every permanent closure represents tangible progress towards reducing the number of dogs entering the meat trade.
Australia
Former Chief Vet Calls For Faster End To Tasmania Greyhound Racing
A former Greyhound Racing NSW chief veterinarian has urged Tasmania to accelerate its planned phase out of greyhound racing, arguing that welfare concerns cannot be eliminated through regulation alone.
The comments were made as Parliament continues examining the timetable for ending the industry. Animal welfare organisations have long argued that serious injuries and deaths remain an unavoidable consequence of commercial greyhound racing despite improvements in oversight.
The debate is likely to continue as Tasmania considers whether the existing timetable provides adequate protection for racing dogs.
Australia
Australian Council Approves Overnight Cat Curfew
Boroondara Council has approved an overnight cat curfew due to begin in 2027 as part of efforts to reduce wildlife predation by roaming owned cats.
The decision will require owners to keep their cats indoors between sunset and sunrise, with penalties applying where the rules are breached. Supporters say the measure will protect native wildlife and encourage responsible ownership, while critics argue education and support for owners should remain central to improving both wildlife conservation and cat welfare.
The decision reflects a growing international trend towards encouraging cats to remain indoors for their own safety as well as to protect wildlife.
United Kingdom
Experts Renew Warnings Over Extreme Dog Breeding
Veterinary experts have renewed warnings about breeding dogs for exaggerated physical characteristics, particularly flat-faced breeds that are prone to breathing difficulties, eye disease and other chronic health problems.
Animal welfare organisations continue to encourage prospective owners to prioritise health over appearance when choosing a puppy, warning that demand for extreme features fuels breeding practices that can compromise lifelong welfare.
The issue remains a significant concern across the UK as rescue organisations continue caring for increasing numbers of dogs affected by inherited health conditions.
Ukraine
Ukraine Highlights Penalties For Animal Welfare Offences
Authorities in Ukraine have highlighted the legal penalties available for people responsible for neglect or cruelty towards companion animals.
The reminder reinforces existing legislation allowing fines and, in more serious cases, confiscation of animals where welfare standards have not been met. Officials say responsible ownership remains essential to protecting animal welfare and preventing neglect.
The announcement forms part of wider efforts to improve awareness of animal welfare responsibilities.
Singapore
New Pilot Scheme Expands Support For Cat Fosterers
Singapore will introduce a two year pilot scheme from 3 August allowing approved cat fosterers to keep up to six cats in public housing and up to ten in private homes.
The Animal & Veterinary Service said the scheme recognises the important role fosterers play in caring for sick, injured and abandoned cats while helping reduce the number of free roaming cats awaiting permanent homes. Approved fosterers must meet eligibility requirements, ensure cats are sterilised where appropriate and comply with licensing rules.
End of Bulletin