I'm a Canadian currently teaching English in Korea. Haven't heard of anyone here eating cats, but several people have eaten dog. It's not a supermarket food, but some consider it a delicacy. Even non-eaters generally believe that eating dog can improve the health of the ill. It is also widely believed to improve sexual potency for males. Many Koreans get defensive when sensing criticism for this cultural practice, altho many Koreans are also personally opposed to the practice. Before coming to Korea, I had intended to try some dog stew. However, while riding in a train through the back-country, I saw many miserable dogs in small wire cages that were clearly eating-dogs. This turned me off completely. Another time I had a chance to visit a farm. There were a few dogs tied up, including a puppy. It seemed happy to see the farmer, jumping up and barking, but the farmer just kicked the puppy to get it to shut up.
Dogs and cats may be animals and good source of protein, but they have been shaped over the millennia to have a special relationship with people. This bond taps into our caregiving instincts that are usually extended to children. A callousness to these animals may undermine our overall empathy. That is why, despite real exceptions, dogs and cats are not a source of food for the majority of people around the world, including those within Asia.
Haven't heard of anyone here eating cats, but several people have eaten dog.
It's not a supermarket food, but some consider it a delicacy. Even non-eaters generally believe that eating dog can improve the health of the ill. It is also widely believed to improve sexual potency for males.
Many Koreans get defensive when sensing criticism for this cultural practice, altho many Koreans are also personally opposed to the practice.
Before coming to Korea, I had intended to try some dog stew. However, while riding in a train through the back-country, I saw many miserable dogs in small wire cages that were clearly eating-dogs. This turned me off completely.
Another time I had a chance to visit a farm. There were a few dogs tied up, including a puppy. It seemed happy to see the farmer, jumping up and barking, but the farmer just kicked the puppy to get it to shut up.
Dogs and cats may be animals and good source of protein, but they have been shaped over the millennia to have a special relationship with people. This bond taps into our caregiving instincts that are usually extended to children. A callousness to these animals may undermine our overall empathy. That is why, despite real exceptions, dogs and cats are not a source of food for the majority of people around the world, including those within Asia.