Rescue Dogs and Cats from the Meat Trade (Nigeria)

Dear Donors,

Thank you for your generous support and commitment to rescuing animals from cruelty. Because of your kindness, Equitable Medicaid and Clinical Research has recorded its first major achievement under the Rescue Dogs and Cats from the Meat Trade project in Nigeria.

We have successfully rescued a five-month-old female dog from a meat market in Nasarawa Eggon. She was brought to the market for slaughter and sale when our volunteer intervened and removed her from the trade. We named her Xena. At the time of rescue, Xena was severely dehydrated, weak, and very sick due to poor handling and neglect. She has since been vaccinated against rabies, and her medical treatment and recovery are ongoing. This rescue marks an important milestone in our efforts to end the suffering of dogs and cats in the meat trade.

Across parts of Nigeria, including Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Ondo, Plateau, Ekiti, and Nasarawa, dog meat consumption remains widespread. Thousands of dogs are slaughtered every year, many of them strays or stolen pets. Animals are transported in harsh conditions and killed in painful ways, often without any form of regulation or veterinary oversight. In many communities, dog meat spots are openly known as “404” or “chop one, chop two,” reflecting how accepted this practice has become.

During the rescue, our volunteer asked traders why such acts continue. They explained that many people believe dog meat has medicinal and spiritual powers, such as boosting immunity, neutralizing poison, increasing sexual drive, or offering protection from witches and evil forces. These beliefs, passed down through generations, are not supported by science, yet they continue to fuel violence against animals.

Through this project, we rescue dogs and cats from slaughter, provide urgent veterinary care, and work toward placing survivors in safe homes through adoption. We also engage communities to challenge harmful beliefs, promote animal welfare, and reduce demand for the meat trade.

As festive seasons approach, the number of animals at risk increases. With your continued support, we can rescue more lives, expand awareness, and work toward a future where compassion replaces cruelty.

God bless you, and thank you for your kindness and continued support.

Yours sincerely,
Ugbede-Ojo Dominic Kadiri
Project Leader

• xena.pdf (PDF)
  

Dear Donors and Friends,

First, we want to sincerely thank everyone who has already donated to this project. Your kindness gives us hope that change is possible. To those considering a donation, we also thank you in advance for standing with us in this urgent cause.

So far, the funds raised are not yet enough to begin full-scale activities, but we have been able to make progress in identifying the scale of the problem. We have visited more than five markets in Nigeria where dogs and cats are openly sold and slaughtered for meat. During these visits, we spoke directly with sellers and buyers, asking them to stop this practice. Sadly, our words have not carried much weight because there is no law against it and no public campaign currently running to discourage it.

One disturbing reality is that this trade is not only confined to local markets, it also thrives in beer parlors, bars, and restaurants. In fact, one of the most notorious spots for dog meat is known as “Shop One, Shop Two.” According to sellers, this name is a slogan used to identify dog meat joints across Nigeria. Once you hear “Shop One, Shop Two,” it signals a place where dog meat is being sold.

Beyond the markets, cruelty to stray dogs and cats is widespread. Many are left to suffer on the streets without food or shelter. Our first steps, once enough funds are secured, will be to begin rescuing these strays, feeding them properly, and preparing them for adoption. In the future, we also plan to visit homes where pets are being mistreated, either to remove them from abusive conditions or to provide medical treatment.

We are determined to act, but we cannot do this without your help. While we continue to map out problem areas and gather evidence, we need your donations to launch public campaigns, start rescues, provide safe shelter, and offer care for the animals. Every contribution counts, and no amount is too small. With your donation, we can start changing attitudes about dogs and cats in Nigeria.

With gratitude and love,
Ugbede-Ojo Dominic Kadiri
Project Leader