Volunteers from a Lincolnshire charity have made an incredible journey to rescue 15 dogs from the meat trade in China. The dedicated team from Broken Biscuits travelled over 5,000 miles to Harbin in north-east China, where they supported a rescue centre that provides care for dogs saved from this tragic fate. Their mission was not only to bring these dogs back to the UK but also to perform essential veterinary procedures to improve their quality of life.
Among the dogs brought back is Summer, an eight-year-old Labrador who had been waiting nearly six years for a chance at a new life. Her paralysis had made her a less desirable candidate for adoption, but Broken Biscuits saw the potential in her. Another dog, Pickle, a small poodle, suffered from severe muscle loss and trauma after spending years in isolation. Then there’s Lemon, a senior dog with no lower jaw who requires assisted feeding. Co-founder Cassie Carney expressed the charity’s commitment, stating, "These are the dogs nobody chose."
Tim Giles, another co-founder of Broken Biscuits, highlighted the challenges these dogs faced, saying, "These dogs were put in the ‘too hard’ category. Admired, loved… but their disabilities put people off.” The charity is now focused on providing the necessary veterinary care and rehabilitation for these dogs, working with experts from Abbey Veterinary Referral Hospital and The Vet Station.
During their time in China, the team, including veterinary surgeon Dr Vanessa Waite, worked tirelessly alongside local teams to perform a variety of surgeries. They started their days at 4 am and continued late into the night, hoping to help as many dogs as possible. Dr Waite described the experience as shocking, noting the sheer number of dogs that had been rescued, most of whom suffered from health issues due to their difficult pasts.
The team conducted multiple dental procedures, eye surgeries, and orthopaedic operations while also training local teams in vital techniques. Dr Waite shared her passion for veterinary medicine, saying, "This is the real reason I became a vet — to help the dogs that need it most."
Now back in the UK, Broken Biscuits is raising funds to support the dogs they rescued and to assist others still in China. They have launched a GoFundMe appeal to cover the costs of flights for the remaining dogs and to provide ongoing care, rehabilitation, and mobility support for those already in their care. A member of the team stated, "This is their moment. We just need help to get them here."
The community's support could make a significant difference in the lives of these dogs. As Broken Biscuits continues its mission, local residents are encouraged to join in the effort to provide a better future for these deserving animals.