A moving video shows a Golden Retriever’s first steps toward safety after being rescued from the meat trade, and it has everyone in tears.

On August 8, 2024, TikTok user Beagle Freedom Project (@beaglefreedom) shared a video of Cava, a Golden Retriever who is now, finally, safe. Take a look!

In a 20-second video, we’re introduced to Cava, a Golden Retriever who has made her way to the United States from overseas.

“Watch Cava the Golden take her first steps on US soil after being rescued from the meat trade overseas,” the text on the screen reads.

And we see a crate open, and a beautiful Golden Retriever steps out and stands on the grass. She looks nervous, so her head is down, and her tail is still, but she decides to sit down on the grass and receive love from two people who rub her head and scratch her back.

“She is so grateful to be safe and loved after what she’s been through,” the text reads.

Cava then starts to explore more. She stands up and starts to smell the grass and her first hint of freedom.

“You’re free now, Cava. No one will ever hurt you again, we promise,” the video concludes.

In the caption, the organization gives more details on Cava’s history.

“Watch Cava the golden retriever take her first steps after being rescued from the dog meat trade overseas,” it explains. “You are safe now, Cava. Always and forever.”

People were cheering her on in the comments and had happy words to share.

One wrote, “Thank you for saving her!”

Another added, “She is beautiful. Peace and love to her.”

One shared, “This is why I donate monthly.”

Another wrote, “She deserves unconditional love.”

Someone else added, “This is beautiful.”

A TikTok viewer wrote, “She’s beautiful, poor baby, thank you! Wait till she runs in park and plays.”

What is the Dog Meat Trade?
The Beagle Freedom Project “is the world’s leading organization for rescuing and rehoming animals used in experimental research,” it explains on its website. “Since 2010, we have liberated thousands of animals while working to end their abuse through education, advocacy, and legislation. Together, we are moving closer to a world without animal testing!”

For Cava, she was rescued from the dog meat trade, which is pretty much what it sounds like. The Humane Society International explains that animals, specifically dogs and cats, are used as a food source in some countries, including dog meat farms in South Korea.

“Dog and cat traders snatch animals from the streets, steal pets from backyards or buy them from owners,” the organization explains. “They are crammed together on the back of trucks and driven for days—sick, hungry, thirsty, injured and afraid” before they’re taken to the market slaughterhouse.

“In South Korea, dogs are bred in barren cages, without proper food, water, or protection from the elements,” the Humane Society International continues. “Most people across Asia don’t eat dog or cat meat, and [the Humane Society International] is working with local groups to lobby for change.”

We’re so happy Cava has been given a chance at freedom and happiness.

Original Source: Parade Pets