I Was Shocked to See an Open Dog Meat Restaurant in China

I had always been excited about visiting China – a country famous for its rich culture and diverse cuisine. But this trip left me with a haunting memory I will never forget.

On a bustling street, I suddenly came across a restaurant with a large sign: “Fresh Dog Meat – Local Specialty.” Right in front of the door, several dogs were crammed into small iron cages. They trembled, whimpered, their tearful eyes filled with fear, as if begging for a miracle to escape their tragic fate. I froze, my heart aching as I realized: these were not “dishes,” they were living beings in despair.

Inside, the loud chatter of diners mixed with the smell of grilled meat filling the air. Pieces of dog meat sizzled on the fire, while in a corner of the restaurant, some dogs barked weakly in hopeless protest. To me, this was not only disturbing, but a chilling display of cruelty.

As a tourist, I felt both shocked and disappointed. I understand that many locals see dog meat as a “tradition” or a “specialty.” But in today’s world, where humanity is moving toward compassion and respect for animals, I can’t help but ask: Does this custom still deserve a place, or is it a cultural stain that must be erased?

What broke me the most were the dogs’ desperate eyes. Dogs are meant to be loyal companions, trusted friends of humankind. Yet here, they were treated like mere commodities, waiting for a painful end.

I left the restaurant with a heavy heart. The image haunts me still, and I believe any traveler who witnesses such a scene would feel the same outrage and sorrow. That is why I hope one day, these cruel practices will remain only as a painful memory of the past—replaced by a society that values compassion and humanity.