STORY: :: Chinese pet owners treat their dogs to a special meal on Lunar New Year's Eve
:: January 25, 2025
:: Shanghai, China
:: Gu Jiayu, Co-owner of Konghan Yunnan eatery
"People have eaten a lot of New Year's Eve dinners, but being able to bring your dog along, your furry child, and dine with other dog-loving friends is truly special. The dogs can also enjoy chicken breast. I think this fulfills a very genuine emotional need, so we organized this event."
:: Momo Ni, Dog owner
"He's my soulmate! He's given me a lot of emotional support. When I'm happy or unhappy, he will always accompany me. So regarding the reunion dinner, I'm with a good friend and we're eating together. We're experiencing the atmosphere of the new year together."
The meal is customary for many Chinese-speaking communities around the world and is set to take place on Tuesday (January 28) this year.
For the pet-friendly version, 11 dogs munched on shredded chicken and lettuce, with some wearing traditional garments to add to the festivities.
In China, more people are choosing to adopt pets rather than have children and consider their pets as family members.
Restaurants and online stores have started to offer reunion dinner events and meal sets for cats and dogs.
