India Dog Meat Trade Rescue on Christmas 2025

On December 25, 2025, a coordinated rescue operation in Jorhat, Assam, India led to the safe recovery of six vulnerable puppies, an outcome made possible through the swift action of local animal advocates, local nonprofit Anaajoree and Humane World for Animals India, in partnership with the Jupuha animal shelter.

Humane World for Animals India

The rescue was triggered by urgent reports from local volunteers that the puppies were tied up and were at imminent risk of being transported for the dog meat trade. 

The individuals transporting the puppies claimed they had purchased them from a watchman who said he could no longer care for them. Their intended destination, Karbi Anglong, which is known for rearing dogs for meat, raising serious concerns for the puppies’ safety and welfare.

Quick action required

Based on these circumstances, local law enforcement was immediately engaged. After verifying the situation, police confiscated the puppies and placed them in a foster home overnight. With the approval of the police, the puppies were then transferred safely to the Jupuha Animal Shelter, where they will receive proper care and protection.

All six puppies—two boys and four girls—were frightened and kept in poor condition at the time of rescue. One female puppy, named Monica by her rescuers, was critically unwell, suffering from severe fluid retention in her abdomen. Treatment began immediately, and she is now responding well and showing encouraging signs of recovery.

Angsuman Hatiboruah

The puppies are currently under the care of Jupuha Animal Shelter, with Humane World and local partners actively seeking loving foster placements and permanent homes to give them the safe future they deserve.

Effort yielding results

This rescue is a powerful example of the impact of sustained advocacy. Humane World India has worked tirelessly to sensitise local police, strengthen the capacity of grassroots volunteers and raise public awareness about the cruelty of the dog meat trade and the serious risks it poses to animals and communities alike. 

We ask the public and local volunteers to report suspicious circumstances so that animals can be rescued before they are taken for this horrific trade.