China's Dog Meat Festival Will Continue Despite Protests

This year's annual Yulin Dog Meat Festival is slated to begin on June 21 and its organizers have chosen to continue full speed ahead in spite of the growing protests against its slaughtering of dogs. While millions in Canada, the United Kingdom, the United States, and pet owners in China alike have spoken out against the festival (even signing a petition demanding the end of the slaughter), there are currently no obstacles in place to prevent this upcoming event.

While, of course, many argue in defense of the festival that eating dog meat is no different from consuming cows, pigs, or any other animal typically associated with human sustenance. Of course, as reducetarians, we insist upon decreasing human consumption of meat in all its forms. What is especially unfortunate with respect to this particular event is the acquisition of the many dogs. In other countries, dog-breeding farms are in place for consumption purposes and some even suggest that the majority of dogs are strays. Unfortunately, an investigation by Animals Asia suggests that many of the dogs are actually pets stolen from their owners.

If you are interested in contributing to the many voices rallying against the festival, you can sign the petition and actively protest in your own home by eating less meat in your everyday life.

Written by Danika Lam