Chinese pole dancers pose as stray dogs to protest dog meat festival

The controversial Yulin dog meat festival has continued to attract criticism, with the Chinese national pole dancing team the latest to join the chorus of protests.

In a series of pictures, the dancers leave behind their glamorous outfits to pose as stray dogs that are chained, tied up and caged. The photo series is a recreation of the brutal treatment of dogs in the country.

One of the photos shows a dancer posing as a dog being dragged by a van. Another shows a cleaver threatening two dancers who are tied by their necks, looking terrified as they await slaughter.

One particularly provocative picture shows a dancer gagged with her hands and legs tied up as a person adds oil to a fire behind her, recreating the image of a dog being torched.

The image is accompanied by a caption that reads: "Just like that, I slowly die to satisfy their desire for 'dog meat with crispy skin'. Does it smell good?"

According to English language tabloid Shanghaiist, the dancers hope to raise public awareness about animal protection in an effort to end cruelty against dogs.

Many people, including celebrities such as British comedian Ricky Gervais and Chinese actress Yang Mi, have spoken out against the Yulin festival, in which some 10,000 dogs are reportedly killed for their meat.

However, supporters of the festival argue that eating dog meat is a tradition, and claim that it is good for health.

seanyap@sph.com.sg