China Puts Hold on Dog Dishes

Posted by Mia Carter Jul 10, 2008

File this one under disturbing: In anticipation of August's Summer Olympic Games in Beijing, China, the host city's municipal food safety office has asked area restaurants and caterers to “suspend use of dog meat dishes during the Olympic period."

Apparently, the move is intended to avoid offending us westerners who find the idea of eating dogs appalling, to say the least. Now, I could go on all day about how eating a dog is just as appealing as cannibalism to many westerners, including myself. And while I find the very concept of eating dog meat downright disturbing - I'd rather eat my own arm for lunch - I do feel it's quite considerate of Beijing officials to put a moratorium on dog dishes. And I don't say this with all that much sarcasm; cultural differences can be vast. And the willingness to sacrifice a bit of Chinese culture and tradition to avoid offending westerners is actually wonderful on their part. It takes a lot to say, "This is who we are. But we're going to change that a little bit to make you more comfortable."

So all you Beijing-bound Olympians, take comfort in knowing that many of the dog meat appetizers and entrees will likely be removed from the menu next month.