Rising Concerns Over Pet Disposal Practices and Animal Welfare in South Korea
As pet ownership in South Korea continues to grow, so do the challenges associated with caring for pets throughout their lives and after their deaths. A significant issue emerging in recent years is the proper disposal of deceased pets, with many pet owners opting for illegal methods due to high costs and limited facilities.
Pet Disposal Practices: A Growing Dilemma
Despite the illegality, burying pets in the ground remains the most common choice among pet owners. Data reveals that 54.4% of pet owners bury their deceased animals in the ground, a method prohibited by current regulations. This practice persists largely due to the limited availability of animal cremation facilities and the high costs associated with using them. The cost of cremating a pet can start at 200,000 won, with some services reaching up to 3 million won.
As of 2024, there are only 75 animal cremation centers across the country, none of which are located on Jeju Island. This lack of accessible facilities, combined with high costs, has left many pet owners with few options, despite their emotional attachment to their pets. The second most common method of disposal is using a cemetery (16.6%), followed by consigning the remains to veterinary clinics (9.4%), and disposing of the body as household waste (4.9%).
Increasing Euthanasia Rates: A Humane Dilemma
The issue extends beyond the disposal of deceased pets to the growing number of pets being euthanized each year. According to national audit data, over 23,000 pets, or 18% of all rescued animals in 2023, were euthanized after failing to find new homes. This marks an alarming increase in the annual number of euthanized pets, up from 18,604 in 2021.
The Korea Animal Health and Quarantine Agency's 2023 survey further highlights that while 39% of rescued animals were returned to their original owners or adopted, the number of pets humanely euthanized continues to rise. The lack of proper care facilities, coupled with the increasing number of abandoned pets, underscores the need for a comprehensive animal welfare plan.
A Call for Reform in Pet Disposal and Welfare Policies
Democratic Party lawmaker Lim Ho-jeon has voiced concerns about the state of pet disposal in South Korea. He emphasized the need for the Ministry of Agriculture, Food, Forestry and Rural Affairs to include the posthumous disposal of pets in a comprehensive animal welfare plan set to be established next year. The shortage of pet cemeteries has led to the trial of mobile pet cemeteries, but only two are currently in operation, far from meeting the growing demand.
The increasing number of pets being euthanized, coupled with improper disposal practices, points to a larger issue of animal welfare in South Korea. While the country has made strides in promoting responsible pet ownership, there is a pressing need to address the aftercare of pets and provide affordable and accessible disposal options.
Conclusion: A Crossroads for Pet Welfare
South Korea finds itself at a crossroads regarding the treatment of pets, both in life and after death. The growing rates of euthanasia and the illegal burial of pets underscore the urgency for better infrastructure and policies. As pet ownership continues to rise, addressing these issues will be crucial in ensuring that both pets and their owners are treated with dignity and respect.
FAQs
1. What are the current legal methods for disposing of a deceased pet in South Korea?
Under current law, pet owners can dispose of their pets as household or medical waste or use an animal burial facility. However, illegal burial remains a widespread practice due to high costs and limited facilities.
2. Why are many pet owners opting for illegal burial methods?
Many pet owners resort to burying their pets illegally because the cost of cremation and burial services is often too expensive, with some services costing up to 3 million won. Additionally, there are only a limited number of animal cremation facilities nationwide.
3. What is the euthanasia rate for pets in South Korea?
In 2023, 18% of rescued pets were euthanized after failing to find new homes. This rate has been steadily increasing in recent years, with over 23,000 pets euthanized in 2023 alone.
4. What steps are being taken to address the shortage of pet disposal facilities?
To address the shortage, mobile pet cemeteries have been piloted, although only two are currently in operation. Lawmakers are also calling for the inclusion of pet disposal in future animal welfare plans.
5. What is the government doing to promote responsible pet ownership?
The government has taken steps to improve pet registration and animal welfare. However, there is growing recognition that posthumous care for pets, including accessible and affordable burial options, must also be a part of these efforts.
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