INTRODUCTION

In August l998, a representative of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) made a videotape of conditions in several dog pounds in Taiwan. In October, three representatives of PETA, including a veterinarian, visited those dog pounds and others in and around Taipei and Taoyuan counties. This is their report, which will describe what conditions should be, at a minimum, what they are now, and how they can be raised to basic compliance with internationally recognized standards for the operation of dog pounds:

GENERAL REMARKS

What we found overall was deeply distressing and disturbing. We witnessed filth, overcrowding, the suffering of sick animals, untrained and often uncaring workers, and an absolute failure to understand basic tenets of animal care and management. That said, instead of frustration, we feel hope. The problems we uncovered were major and critical, but every single one is easily remedied. We are realistic enough to know, however, that only time will tell whether our optimism is justified. Everywhere we went, at every meeting, we were told, as others have been told for years before us, to be patient and to allow enough time for change. It goes without saying that human beings who live well can afford to take all the time in the world to fix something that doesn't directly affect them. The victims of this slowness, however, feel every second of delay, and it is reflected in their eyes and in the condition of their bodies. The dogs we saw were, to the seasoned observer, without exception, exhausted from the stress of close confinement with other dogs (who challenge and harass them), the stress of improper and frightening handling, and the absence of all comfort, having nothing but metal or damp concrete to rest upon. We ask that the government bear them in mind and move with all due speed and diligence.