(WWJ) Five dogs rescued from the meat trade in South Korea have found loving homes in Michigan.
Shelter officials shared photos of them on the Humane Society of Midland County Facebook page Wednesday morning, following their arrival late Tuesday night.
The public was invited to visit the dogs beginning at noon and the response was overwhelming. Within just a couple of hours, all five tail-waggers were adopted into loving Michigan families.
Much of the world views dogs as trusted companions or protectors, but according to Humane Society International, in some parts of Asia they suffer as victims of the trade in dog meat for human consumption.
HSI has been working to end the practice shutting down dog meat farms in South Korea while helping farm owners of the farms learn and new skills so they can support their families without selling dogs for meat. "By drawing the attention of governments and the public to the cruelty involved in this industry, we hope to put a stop to the misery these dogs endure." (Learn more here)
HSoMC calls it "amazing process (making) huge strides for animal welfare around the globe."
Speaking to MLive, HSoMC director Beth Wellman explained that five of the dogs ended up in Michigan after the Humane Society of the U.S. reached out to the Midland shelter, an emergency relief partner. The animals were vaccinated and then quarantined for 30 days before being transported.
“The dogs are all friendly, which is surprising, considering the conditions they’ve lived in,” Wellman told MLive.
While a few people questioned why they shelter would take in dogs from overseas with so many in need in Michigan, overall reaction to the effort has been positve.
"So glad you're able to save these babies," Megan Burns wrote on Facebook. "They deserve so much better then being in bad condition in Korea. They all looking happy and loving. So adorable."
HSoMC said while it focuses on Midland County pets first, they are transfer partners with shelters across Michigan and beyond to assist as many animals as they can to have the lives they deserve, the shelter said.
While these particular pups are no longer available, there are plenty more at the Midland shelter still awaiting some love. ((Browse adoptable dogs and cats HERE))
The shelter is also in need of donated items, including sturdy and thick leashes, blankets, towels, Fabuloso and Odoban for cleaning. All donations can be brought to 4371 E. Ashman St. Midland.