Korean Government's New Attempt To Legalize Dog-meat

Dear President Roh Moo-Hyun,

I am appalled to learn that the Korean Government is planning to introduce a policy on the hygienic control of dog meat. This will only pave a way towards a legal means of doing business for the illegal dog meat trade and greatly encourage the consumption of dog meat. I am genuinely distressed when I think of the devastating effect that this policy will have on countless loving Korean dogs and cats that are already dying in the millions every year. This is the result of the government's total failure to either close down the dog meat restaurants or educate the public about the fraudulent health claims responsible for the senseless and shameful slaughter of these animals.

Government officials have, by their own admission, acknowledged that this is an unpopular move and have admitted there is no consensus, and certainly no mandate from the Korean public to further legitimize the dog meat trade. Why the government should be seeking to appease a small minority of dog-eaters is therefore beyond anyone's comprehension. If the Korean government is truly committed - as it claims - to reduce animal abuse, then it should stop immediately all measures designed to legitimize dog meat consumption. Instead, it should incorporate all dogs and cats within the definition of "companion animals", and then do everything it can to strengthen and especially enforce the existing animal protection law. No-one will be fooled by the Korean government paying lip-service to the idea of animal protection whilst simultaneously attempting to legalize the vile trade in dog meat.

Dogs and cats are not a main source of food in Korea, like cows or chickens, few Koreans eat them for any reason other than for fraudulent health benefits. They have much more in common with bears and tigers who's body parts are also sold in another illegal and shameful industry. The dog meat trade is an industry based upon consumer fraud and cruelty to animals. It is your duty to protect both animals and consumers from this illegal industry by enforcing the law and educating the public.

As President, you have power to stop your government's unfortunate and ill-judged attempts to legalize the dog meat trade. Failure to do so will bring about the greatest shame yet upon your country and even more misery to millions of Korean animals.

Sincerely,

The Undersigned