CafePress drops Buddha-snap doggie G-strings

Thailand outraged by 'offensive' canine apparel

By Lester Haines • Get more from this author

Posted in Bootnotes, 30th May 2007 14:32 GMT

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US online apparel outfit CafePress today dropped "G-string underwear and T-shirts for dogs* emblazoned with [a] picture of Buddha" after Thailand went ballistic at the outrage.

According to Reuters, Thailand's Foreign Ministry spokesman Piriya Khempon yesterday said the products had "offended Thais and Buddhists" and duly demanded their withdrawal. Around 90 per cent of the country's population subscribe to the religion, and consider dogs "inferior beings".

Objecting to stuff has become a bit of a local custom down in Thailand since the military decided they'd be better at running the place. The country is involved in an ongoing spat with Google and YouTube over videos mocking revered King Bhumibol Adulyadej, and has blocked access to the latter altogether.

For the record, dog owners wishing to make some form of religious statement can still get canine clothing bearing images of Jesus or Shiva down at CafePress. Theologians are reportedly examining these with a view to jumping on the groaning internet-induced indignation bandwagon. ®

Bootnote

*Ok, we admit we're not entirely convinced that CafePress was punting G-strings for dogs. Blame Reuters for the wording. On the other hand, if the news agency has got this right, the question is surely wtf?

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