LIVE OAK — Fresh from a now-shuttered South Korean dog meat farm, four young dogs have come to Santa Cruz in need of special care from four foster families.

The Santa Cruz Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals soon will be taking in two mastiffs and two golden retriever or labrador mixes between the ages of 1 and 3. The organization is seeking experienced foster families who can begin training and socializing immediately to prepare the dogs for adoption after their May 9 arrival.

The effort comes through a partnership with the Humane Society International, which is taking part in a larger effort by animal welfare organizations to bring international awareness to the Korean dog meat industry in advance of the 2018 Olympics. Santa Cruz’s rescue dogs come from the Wonju dog meat farm where 50 dogs were recovered in February. The farm is located in the same province as where the Olympics will be held.

The SPCA is looking for at least a one-month commitment from foster families with no children younger than 12 and who are able to keep the dog separate from cats, among other conditions. A mandatory meeting with a local trainer who specializes in fearful and under-socialized dogs will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. on May 4 at the Santa Cruz SPCA, 2685 Chanticleer Ave.

Those interested in the foster opportunity can Sarah@spcasc.org or call 831-465-5000. —— (c)2016 the Santa Cruz Sentinel (Scotts Valley, Calif.) Visit the Santa Cruz Sentinel (Scotts Valley, Calif.) at www.santacruzsentinel.com Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. AMX-2016-04-26T00:01:00-04:00