Seven dogs rescued from China’s controversial Yulin festival are set to embark on a 5,000-mile journey to the United Kingdom, where they will receive rehabilitation and care from Broken Biscuits, a charity specializing in support for disabled dogs. The animals will be given the opportunity to find permanent homes after their recovery.

The Yulin festival, which begins today, marks the summer solstice and has drawn international condemnation since its inception in 2009 due to the large number of dogs reportedly killed and consumed during the event. Animal welfare advocates have been actively working to rescue as many dogs as possible from the meat trade associated with the festival.

Among those involved in rescue efforts is Hayley Hayes, an Irish-born former teacher who now runs Harbin SHS Animal Rescue in northern China. Hayes’s work began unexpectedly when she assisted dogs at a slaughterhouse and subsequently opened the shelter in Harbin to provide ongoing care for animals in distress. Her organization responds to emergency calls and collaborates with local activists and authorities to intercept trucks transporting dogs for meat. Many dogs arrive at the shelter injured, abused, or abandoned, while others were previously family pets stolen and sold into the trade.

Last Sunday, Dr. Vanessa Waite, a British veterinarian specializing in orthopedic surgery, traveled to Harbin with colleague Calum Marshall to assist with veterinary treatment. Dr. Waite has previously worked alongside Tim Giles, co-founder of Broken Biscuits, on a similar mission earlier this year, performing procedures to restore mobility, eyesight, and overall health. Their ongoing assessment helps identify dogs most in need of intervention and those suitable for relocation to the UK for advanced care and rehoming.

Dr. Waite plans to conduct 10 to 20 operations daily during her week-long visit and will support the transportation of the selected seven dogs to the UK. Giles acknowledged the difficult decisions involved in selecting dogs for relocation, emphasizing the importance of matching available resources to the animals most likely to benefit from specialized care and find successful, permanent placements.

Hayley Hayes highlighted the emotional impact of seeing rescued dogs board flights to new homes abroad, many having endured severe trauma and neglect. Her shelter currently cares for approximately 1,500 dogs, 200 cats, and other animals, with many destined for international adoption where stronger legal protections for animal welfare exist.

Despite the ongoing challenges, Hayes notes a gradual shift in attitudes within China as pet ownership rises and more individuals speak out against the dog meat trade. “Progress may be slow, but it is happening,” she said, expressing hope for continued change in the treatment of animals connected to the festival and broader meat market activities.