Throughout Southeast Asia, the dog meat trade is prevalent. Our work in Vietnam, Cambodia and Indonesia has revealed acts of unbelievable cruelty and recently, FOUR PAWS investigations uncovered too, a secretive network in Borneo. 

While most know of the island of Borneo for its majestic wildlife, beautiful jungle canopies and extensive ecosystems, there is a hidden and horrendous trade behind closed doors. For years, we have been supporting the rescue and treatment of stray animals together with our local partner, Pro Natura, in East Kalimantan. During this time, we witnessed countless dogs disappear without a trace. Our recent investigation into the dog meat trade in Borneo, Indonesia, the first-ever in Indonesia, revealed thousands of dogs were being killed in cruel ways every year, snatched from the streets and their homes.  

It has taken us some time to uncover the scale of a network that is responsible for trading, slaughtering and selling of thousands of dogs. And sadly, what we have learnt is that the methods are brutal.  
 
Dogs are often caught using poison such as potassium cyanide. Once unable to fight back, their mouths are tightly bound shut and they are shoved into thick burlap sacks. After being trafficked to slaughterhouses and restaurants, the dogs are bludgeoned to death, using a brick or metal pole. These words are enough to send shivers down your spine.

During the investigation, our team was able to rescue seven souls who were moments away from their barbaric deaths. Along with these, one rescued heavily pregnant female gave birth to four puppies. Four new lives who by some lucky miracle have a chance at life.

In order to keep the rescued dogs safe, FOUR PAWS initially partnered with local rescue, Balikpapan Cat Rescue Foundation, who provided temporary emergency housing for the dogs. However, there is now an urgent need to relocate them due to complaints from the local community, who are less than tolerant of barking dogs.

We have therefore decided to build a new enclosure for the pups, who are in desperate need of a safe haven. The enclosure will also have space for up to 20 additional rescued dogs in need of emergency shelter. And now, we need your help to make this happen!

We intend to build an enclosure, where the already rescued dogs and more can thrive away from the clutches of dog meat traders.

The kennel enclosure would be located close to our local stray animal care programme partner, ProNatura, which is around 23 km outside of the city of Balikpapan. The land is in an area surrounded by farmland and rainforest, so the rescued dogs will be given opportunities to go for nice walks and disturbing neighbours won't be an issue. The facility will allow staff to help rehabilitate and treat rescued dogs, which is vital to prepare them for local adoption.

Please secure a future for these lucky dogs and donate towards their safe place.