I, like many women, love chocolate and the Swiss are known for it. However, some Swiss nationals, particularly farmers, regularly eat dog and cat as a meat source.
The advocacy group SOS Chats Noiragigue is leading a campaign to ban the consumption of cats and dogs with a petition to parliament. As of late November 2014, 18,000 signatures had been gathered including that of famous actress and animal rights activist Brigitte Bardot.
Actress Brigitte Bardot is just one signatory on a petition to outlaw the consumption of dog and cat meat in Switzerland
Dog meat is primarily used in sausages.
In Switzerland, a proposal needs 100,000 signatures out of a total population of around 8 million for a national referendum to be held on the issue.
With the power of the internet, animal lovers from around the globe can sign a petition to help add weight to this cause. The Force Change petition is here.
Kathleen Crisley, specialist in dog massage, rehabilitation and nutrition/food therapy, Canine Catering Ltd, Christchurch, New Zealand
