Introduction to the Controversy
A restaurant in northern China has come under fire for offering its guests the opportunity to cuddle with lion cubs as part of a four-course menu worth $150. The Wanhui restaurant in Taiyuan City, Shanxi Province, was opened in June and quickly gained popularity due to this unique but controversial attraction.
The Offer and Its Popularity
The restaurant sells 20 tickets for the multi-course tea per day, with a menu that includes playing time with the lion cubs. The menu, which has gone viral on social media, lists a four-course afternoon menu with playtime with the animals. The restaurant also advertises other animals, such as llamas, turtles, and deer, on its social media page, although it is unclear how customers are allowed to interact with them.
Concerns Over Animal Welfare
The majority of those who commented on the posts are against the odd option, with many expressing concerns over animal welfare. Official animal welfare groups have spoken out against the offer, with the Senior Vice President of the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals stating that it is "exploitation, not entertainment" and that the animals are "treated like nothing but social media props."
Potential Dangers to Humans and Animals
Experts warn that the treatment of wild animals as props is not only harmful to the animals but also dangerous for customers. Even a young lion is capable of producing and hurting a person, making the practice morally unacceptable and dangerous.
Investigation and Precedent
An investigation is currently underway, and this scandal comes shortly after a hotel in China was convicted by local wildlife officials for using endangered red pandas for guest entertainment. The hotel had offered a "red panda themed vacation" which included bringing the endangered species into guests’ rooms for wake-up calls.
Conclusion
The use of wild animals for entertainment purposes is a controversial practice that raises concerns over animal welfare and safety. As awareness of these issues grows, it is likely that we will see increased scrutiny and regulation of such practices in the future.
