Three Major Dog Meat Wholesalers Quit Nagaland Trade

Kohima: Three veteran dog meat wholesalers in Nagaland have permanently shut down operations. They spent two decades moving dogs into markets across Dimapur, Mokokchung, and Manipur. Now, they are finished with the trade. These men surrendered their last 18 dogs and joined a government-backed transition program.

Pro Rural and Humane World for Animals India facilitated the exit. The program teaches former traders how to farm mushrooms and make pickles. It offers the financial support and mentoring they need to find real work. This effort targets the core supply chain of the regional dog meat industry.

The 18 surrendered dogs are now safe. Vets examined, vaccinated, and microchipped every animal. Families in Nagaland adopted many, while others moved to shelters in Assam. The shift represents a major change for the region. Since 2025, 30 women vendors have already left the business. Another 30 are expected to join the transition soon.

Keren Nazareth, a director at Humane World for Animals India, highlighted the human cost of the industry. She stated, "The dog meat trade exploits people in vulnerable socio-economic situations." The trade is linked to animal cruelty, rabies, and theft from nearby villages. Groups now hope these exits will force more people to seek safer alternatives.