The Treatment of Dogs in Korea

In Korea it is not uncommon to see a small dog being pampered beyond what you would normally find in other countries. In Korea people dress up their dogs, dye their tails and ears crazy colours, and put them up in hotels when they go away.
I thought it was crazy the things that people will do with their dogs, but there are a couple of decent reasons why they do what they do. I understand this now that I have a dog of my own. First of all dressing up your dog can be a necessity if your dog is small and the weather is very cold. I found this with Snowball in the winter time. She is such a small dog and doesn't have enough fat on her to keep her warm. This was especally true when I was in Canada. I for sure couldn't bring Snowball out in the cold in Canada without her winter jacket because she would start to shiver within a minute of being outside. The fall and spring are due for a lighter jacket or outfit of sorts because it can still get chilly outside. In the summer the clothing is not necessary, but it can look cute. I have found that the variety of clothing for dogs is incredible here. I can buy any sort of outfit for any occasion and they are relatively cheap. It is very fun at times to dress Snowball up, but I usually do it only for necessity.
The picture on the left is of Snowball in a spring outfit.
The picture on the right is of Snowball in a fall/winter outfit.
Second, pet hotels are very nececary if you don't have anyone to take care of your pet when you will be away for a time. So you bring your pet to a pet hotel and they take care of it until you come back. All you really need to bring for your dog is food and even that isn't necessary at some places.
Last, I cannot see any reason for dying your dog's ears and tail any colour. I have not found a reason to do this and I think it looks rediculous, but for some reason Koreans think that it looks cute or cool or something. Very strange I would say.
Before I end my talk on dogs in Korea I have to make mention to the fact that some Koreans do eat dog soup. The dogs that they use are k-9s. You will never ever catch me eating dog soup. Ever!