Stop 1: China. It would make more geographic sense for the president to start in neighboring Canada, but he has no time for that; for although Chinese law does not currently prohibit the consumption of canine meat — and nor does society frown on its being served — there is considerable pressure from lawmakers and some vocal animal-rights groups to reverse the 2,500-year-old tradition. Animal-protection groups have long held reservations about the practice and, in 2010, the Chinese government introduced draft legislation that would outlaw consumption. This, however, has not yet come into effect. On his visit, the president might try the famous Yulin, Shaanxi food fair, which is both tasty and prolific: This year, more than 15,000 dogs were eaten in just ten days.