Stop The Killing of Dogs & Cats in Japan

Peace Wanko rescue dogs slated to be killed not only from Hiroshima Prefecture but also from Tokushima Prefecture, responding to requests from local government authorities. In Tokushima, where stray and abandoned dogs are particularly common, many dogs are still brought to the Tokushima Animal Welfare and Control Center every single day. 

On the day of our visit, the center was packed with so many dogs that the kennels were overflowing. No matter how many dogs are rescued, more keep arriving—this is the harsh reality. Amidst this situation, two dogs were waiting for us at the center. 

One was a brown dog wearing a collar, meaning they most likely once lived with a family. While this dog walks beautifully on a leash, we were told they are afraid of traffic noises and men, sometimes barking or showing aggression out of fear. The other was a black stray dog who was highly wary and had bitten a staff member in the past, earning them a warning label as a "dangerous dog." However, we also learned that this same dog would occasionally cuddle up to staff members they had grown to trust.

There is always a reason behind a dog’s behavior. Most behavioral issues, such as biting or growling, stem from fear and anxiety. What these fearful dogs need is not forced obedience through power. They need a safe environment and time to build a relationship of trust, side by side, without being rushed. 

According to the latest statistics from the Ministry of the Environment, around 2,000 dogs are still killed annually in Japan—that is about 5 dogs every single day. To achieve our goal of "Zero Euthanasia" nationwide, we must continue our work to connect as many lives as possible to the future.

We brought these two dogs back to Peace Wanko. We will support them fully so they can rebuild their trust in humans, meet loving families, and start their brand-new lives. 

Peace Wanko’s mission to achieve "Zero Euthanasia" across Japan and to bring happiness to as many dogs as possible is funded entirely by your donations. We sincerely ask for your continued support.