A glimmer of hope and a significant step forward in the fight against the dog meat trade comes from the Indian state of Nagaland. After more than twenty years of supplying dogs for slaughter and human consumption, three historic wholesalers have announced their decision to definitively abandon this sector. A change made possible thanks to the professional retraining program Models for Changesupported by Humane World for Animals India (formerly known as HSI) and implemented by the Indian non-governmental organization Pro Rural.
A historic decision for animal and human welfare
Arpita Baruah / Anaajoree
The three wholesalers played a crucial role in the dog meat trade chain, purchasing large quantities of animals and supplying markets in the Dimapur and Mokokchung districts of Nagaland and the neighboring state of Manipur. Their exit from a network based on traffickers, wholesalers and sellers marks a significant disruption to a trade in which dogs have long been treated as mere commodities. In addition to their decision, they voluntarily gave up the 18 dogs still in their possession, the last ones purchased before embarking on this new path. Many of these animals have already found safe homes, adopted on the spot by citizens of Nagaland. All of the rescued dogs received immediate veterinary care, vaccinations and microchips, preparing them for a life of safety and affection.
The ‘Models for Change’ programme: a model of sustainability
The program Models for Changelaunched in Nagaland in 2025, was created to address the need to offer alternative livelihoods to the many female dog meat sellers in the region. So far, 30 women have successfully completed the transition to new businesses, and 30 more are ready to join. The three former wholesalers, for example, chose to undertake activities such as mushroom cultivation and pickle production, providing them with a stable and sustainable income.
Not just animals: female empowerment at the center
The dog meat trade exploits people in vulnerable socioeconomic situations.”
said Keren Nazareth, Senior Director of Pets and Community Engagement at Humane World for Animals India.
Changing this reality doesn’t just mean saving dogs, but also disrupting a system that exposes women to physical and economic risks. Local solutions, developed by communities themselves, are key. Wangshikokla Jamir, Project Coordinator at Pro Rural, also highlighted the importance of the programme
We have found that this sector does not guarantee stable incomes and that many women do not want it to represent their children’s future. Our program does not ask them to give up something without offering a better alternative, providing training, accompaniment and concrete support.
A testimony of success
One of the former wholesalers shared her experience:
Naga women are hardworking and willing to learn new things, but often have not had the opportunity to do so. I took a training course on pickle making, and within a few months, I quit the business. It wasn’t a sudden decision. Besides making pickles, I have also opened a small shop and will also learn how to grow mushrooms and make baked goods. To those who are still involved in this sector I would like to say that there are economic activities that are more respectful of animals.
Long-term impacts: from public health to ending a cruel trade
This professional retraining program not only offers new economic opportunities, but also contributes to the protection of public health. The dog meat trade is in fact recognized as an important factor in the transmission of rabies, a preventable disease. Reducing this practice means protecting entire communities.
Humane World for Animals works across Asia, including South Korea, Vietnam, Indonesia and China, to end the dog and cat meat trade through legislation, community engagement, animal rescue and retraining programs. The organization believes in a holistic approach that addresses the root causes of cruelty, aiming for a future where no animal suffers.
Support change for a more compassionate world
The story of Nagaland’s wholesalers is a tangible example of how collaboration between organizations and communities can create lasting change. You can support the recovery journey of rescued dogs and the work of Humane World for Animals India, which continues to strive for a more compassionate and humane world.
