The World Dog Alliance (WDA) recently celebrated its 10th annual Dog Lovers' Day, marking a decade of significant global advancements in combating the dog and cat meat trade. This period has seen a notable shift in public consciousness, leading to legislative progress and a greater recognition of companion animals as integral members of society.
In the United States, the Dog and Cat Meat Trade Prohibition Act of 2018, now part of the Farm Bill, came into effect on August 7, 2024, outlawing the slaughter, trade, and consumption of dogs and cats for human food. This aligns with the WDA's proposed "International Agreement to Prohibit the Eating of Dogs and Cats," launched in 2019 with the ambitious goal of securing 150 country signatures by 2027. In the United States, the language of this agreement was included in the 2024 US budget bill.
South Korea has achieved a historic milestone with its National Assembly unanimously passing a special act to prohibit the dog meat industry. This law officially took effect on August 7, 2024, following its passage in January 2024, with full enforcement and penalties scheduled for 2027. This legislative success addresses a practice that previously affected an estimated one million dogs annually.
China implemented new guidelines for managing designated animal transport checkpoints on September 1, 2025. These measures are designed to expose illegal dog and cat transport, thereby striking a blow against the black market and reducing instances of theft and abuse. The WDA has actively supported enhanced penalties for dog theft, contributing to a more robust animal protection framework.
Japan saw the official establishment of the Dog and Cat Peace Party on February 12, 2025. As the world's first political party solely dedicated to dog and cat welfare, it aims to influence legislation through parliamentary representation. Meanwhile, Norway has been a key focus for the WDA's advocacy. In February 2025, a WDA representative addressed the Norwegian Parliament regarding the nation's commitment to animal protection and its potential role in adopting the International Agreement. The WDA is actively promoting Norway's engagement with an Animal Welfare White Paper to foster elevated standards.
These collective advancements signify a growing global awareness and a shared commitment to fostering a more compassionate relationship between humans and animals. The past decade has demonstrated the power of unified action and the potential for profound transformation when empathy and respect for all living beings are embraced.