Anti-Dog Meat Festival Campaign Gains Steam

The dog meat trade is alive as ever in some parts of the world. From our Western vantage point, this might come as a shock, or even gross you out (as it should), but, across China, dog meat is still considered a delicacy, one that has its own government organized festival.

While this probably seems a little bizarre to you, stay with me here because there is some really good news coming. According to HSI, the Yulin Dog Meat Festival’s, “annual event, organized by the city’s government, was originally intended for people emerging from the region’s brutal winter to enjoy as a public gathering of ‘walking for health.’”

Because nothing brushes away winter blues like…dog meat? This year’s event, however, has been vehemently opposed by a number of Chinese activists and NGOs. At a massive rally held at a major shopping center in Dalain, over 100,000 people brandishing banners that read “Shut Down Yulin Dog Meat Festival” showed their Support for the end of this cruel tradition.

VShine Animal Protection Group, a Chinese affiliate of HSI, joined the protest along with dozens of dogs who happily helped hand out leaflets and carry banners in protest of the festival. The festival is scheduled for June 21. HSI reports, that in the past, the festival was responsible for the open slaughter of thousands of live dogs. Clearly, this is an antiquated and inhumane tradition that needs to end.

Thanks to the showing at this demonstration, the Chinese public is beginning to oppose this festival. You can help Support the cause and work to help see the festival shut down before June 21 by taking action on the HSI website, or donating to the cause.

Image source: Klearchos Kapoutsis/Wikimedia Commons