News
Outbreak of Avian Influenza
Controversy Regarding Avian Influenza and the culling of Dogs and Cats in Korea
**PROTEST ON HOLD**
Early in December, IAKA was mobilizing to wage a major protest against the Koreans reported slaughter of hundreds of dogs, cats, and pigs in response to an outbreak of Avian Influenza (AI). Our position and concern was based on media reports that 577 dogs had been killed and buried.
Shortly after these reports, we received and official letter from the Korean Ministry of Agriculture clarifying that only 8 dogs were killed. While we are concerned if even 8 dogs were killed without any scientific basis, we are relieved that the government has stopped the culling. Pending further investigation, IAKA is withholding any further protest of the issue. We will keep you informed.
Official Letter from Korean Ministry of Agriculture
(Translation)
Subject : Notification regarding AI (avian influenza) outbreak
From : Animal Health Division of Ministry of Agriculture & Forestry-6692('06.12.01)
Some press recently reported that 577 dogs were killed and buried in the process of the livestock slaughter due to the AI outbreak, which caused many animal groups to be anxious and uncomfortable, but it's not true at all. Please note that only 8 dogs, within a 5-kilometer radius of the initially infected farm have been culled and buried. (4 dogs in infected farm and 4 dogs nearby)
We would like to inform you that we are doing our best to both prevent human infection and the spread of AI. Additionally we are working hard to minimize the number and range of animals to be culled and buried in the process of quarantine activities. We ask that your organization cooperate in stopping more confusion by letting your members know the correct information.
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