why is it not acceptable to eat dog meat in the US if it is permitted in my culture back home?

Question

meow

Answer 1

First off, I would like to apologize for the cultural ignorance of some of my fellow Americans. You should not have been so harshly criticized for simply asking a question to better understand our culture differences, and wanting to learn our ways while you are here.

Dogs in America are viewed differently than dogs in other countries where they are considered livestock. Dogs are not considered livestock here such as: pigs, turkeys, cows, etc.; instead they are considered household pets and companions. And I'm sure no one would consider eating their companion.

It all comes down to the different backgrounds, lifestyles, and the way people are raised. Personally the thought of eating a dog repulses me, but at the same time I realize that people do need to be respectful of others' cultures. As I know there are many things we Americans do that other countries find repulsive.

I do apologize that you have been so harshly trashed, but please do respect our culture and don't try to eat a dog while you are here.

Answer 2

Dogs are highly valued as companions, protectors, and productive workers. Because they feel to us like family members, we are revolted and horrified at the idea of eating them for food.

But on a more fundamental level, in this country, and in many other parts of the world, we do not eat animals that themselves eat other animals. It is considered too risky--eating predators can concentrate contaminants and disease vectors that could infect humans.

That isn't to say that avoiding predator meat is a guarantee of disease-free meat; trichinosis from pork and mad cow disease from infected cows and elk come to mind.

Best to be a vegetarian! And wash and/or cook those veggies to avoid e coli and salmonella!

Answer 3

The U.S. is plenty big enough to raise enough crops and 'meat' animals for the population here. Once white settlers came here and pushed farming we never HAD to depend on alternative food sources like many other nations. It became 'nasty' to eat many things that are staples in other countries, and were eaten here at one point. (Native Americans ate dogs to survive long, brutal winters, and they survived the long battles with the new U.S. government the same way, only by then horses were also added to their diet) We are now rich enough here to have the luxury to refuse to eat what we do not want to, even our 'poor' have other options. Basically, it boils down to being spoiled. I have never personally eaten dog meat, but it is very unhealthy for you (dogs live on trash here, and it is worse in countries were they are eaten!) and the few people I know who have eaten it say it is extremely nasty, of course, most people in the U.S. would react that way. BTW, Most use of dog meat in other countries is now ceremonial, very few use it as a staple meal. Horse meat, on the other hand, is gaining n popularity as a delicacy.

Answer 4

It's a cultural thing. Dogs are domestic animals here.

Answer 5

It's not accepted in America. Dogs & Cats are part of our family. So Hows about I visit your country , Kill an cook your husband/wife ?

So you wanna chow down on some dogs/cats .. Leave the USA , We love our pets. ( Well not Michael Vick...)

Oh an Tonlac1 .. No I dont/will never eat Birds , Nor Fish ( Fish that I would keep in a Bowl of water in my home)

Answer 6

Because the USA is not "back home". Different place, different customs.

There are plenty of examples of things we do here that aren't particularly popular in other countries.

It's generally a good idea to respect the customs of the country you're visiting/inhabiting. "When in Rome..." and all that, you know?

Answer 7

Because for one thing, it's sick. Not to mention, dogs are pets. And family members. You wouldn't eat a member of your family would you? It should be illegal in every country to eat dog or cat meat. That's disgusting to even think about. I don't eat meat as it is, and the thought of eatting one of my dogs makes me want to throw up. that's disgusting.

Answer 8

Different things appeal to different people. Every one's tastes are not the same.
I couldn't imagine eating a pet!

Answer 9

Because people of your culture havnt realized what great companions dogs are.

Here in our country dogs are man's best friend. Many dogs have saved people's lives, they are great friends and help people out.

Answer 10

While people in third world countries might eat cats and dogs, people in the US don't.
People in other countries might not have other meat sources and resort to them.
Most people in the US have other meat sources and choose them instead. (unless we are vegans or vegetarians) :)