Let’s put an end to pig hunting cruelty in Fiji
Pig hunting is often misunderstood or minimised, but the reality is deeply confronting. It is a practice that causes severe suffering to both pigs and dogs, while also creating broader risks for communities.
At Pacific Animal Shelter & Hospital (PASH), we see the aftermath of this cruelty firsthand, injured, traumatised dogs, stolen pets, and animals suffering prolonged pain. This article aims to explain why pig hunting is cruel, how it harms animals on all sides, and what communities can do to protect their animals and prevent abuse.
Dogs Are Victims of Pig Hunting
Dogs used for pig hunting are not trained humanely. In many cases, they are deliberately subjected to abuse to increase aggression.
These dogs are often:
Starved to heighten reactivity
Beaten or punished
Denied medical care, even after severe injuries
Treated as disposable tools, not companions
Many dogs suffer horrific wounds, broken bones, infections, and long-term trauma. Once they are injured, weakened, or deemed no longer “useful,” they are frequently abandoned or killed.
Even dogs that survive often show lasting behavioural and psychological damage, including fear, anxiety, and aggression caused by trauma.
Pigs Endure Extreme Fear and Brutal Deaths
Pig hunting does not result in quick or humane deaths.
Pigs are typically:
Chased for long distances
Cornered and attacked by multiple dogs
Mauled, torn, and restrained while conscious
Left to endure prolonged fear and suffering
This is not humane -It is prolonged torture.
Pig hunting creates victims on both sides.
Dogs are abused, injured, traumatised, or discarded
Pigs experience terror, severe injury, and brutal deaths
Forcing animals into violent encounters for human entertainment or convenience is inherently cruel.
The Damage Does Not End After the Hunt
Surviving dogs often experience:
Severe fear and anxiety
Aggression caused by trauma
Inability to live normal, safe lives
This cruelty creates lifelong suffering, not just physical wounds.
Stolen Dogs: A Growing Concern
Many dogs used in pig hunting are not bred or owned responsibly, they are stolen from homes and communities.
Family pets are taken from:
Yards
Town & City Areas
Residential Areas
These dogs are then forced into violent situations they were never meant to endure.
How Communities Can Keep Their Animals Safe
Protecting animals starts at home. Simple steps can reduce the risk of dogs being stolen or harmed:
Secure Your Property
Keep dogs within secure fencing
Avoid leaving dogs loose or unattended, especially overnight
Lock gates and kennels where possible
Identification Matters
Microchip your dog if possible
Ensure collars and ID tags are worn
Take clear photos of your dog for identification
Community Awareness
Speak with neighbours about keeping pets safe
Watch for suspicious activity involving dogs
Report suspected thefts immediately
Responsible Care
Desex your animals to reduce roaming
Provide regular veterinary care
Treat dogs as family members, not property
What To Do If You See Pig Hunting or Suspect Abuse
If you witness pig hunting or suspect dogs are being stolen or used for hunting:
📍 Note the location and time
📸 Document what you see (safely)
📞 Report it immediately to authorities or an animal welfare organisation
Speaking up can prevent ongoing suffering and save lives.
A Better Future Is Possible
Dogs deserve safety, care, and companionship.
Pigs deserve freedom from fear and pain.
Animal welfare is not about choosing sides it is about ending unnecessary suffering and building safer, more compassionate communities.