9 reasons the inhuman Yulin festival needs to stop

The annual Yulin Lychee and Dog Meat Festival centers on the mass slaughter and consumption of dogs, drawing global condemnation for its inherent cruelty and lack of humane oversight.

Investigations by animal welfare groups have repeatedly documented stolen pets and unregulated transport linked to the dog meat trade supplying Yulin.

WHO reports show China has historically faced rabies challenges, and the unregulated slaughter and transport of dogs heightens public health risks.

In 2020, China officially reclassified dogs as companion animals rather than livestock, undermining the legitimacy of dog meat markets tied to the festival.

HSI undercover reports have documented inhumane handling, cramped transport cages, and brutal slaughter methods associated with Yulin suppliers.

Numerous reported pet theft cases across China have been traced to the dog meat trade, fueling public outrage and calls for stronger enforcement.

Dog meat sold during the festival often bypasses standard quarantine and inspection protocols, raising serious food safety concerns.

Public figures such as Ricky Gervais and organizations worldwide have amplified awareness, highlighting the festival’s reputational damage to China.

Chinese activists and local residents have increasingly protested the festival, reflecting shifting societal values toward animal welfare.