What's Happening?
The animal rights organization PETA has publicly criticized Olympic gymnast Simone Biles for acquiring a puppy with cropped ears. The criticism arose after Biles and her husband, NFL player Jonathan Owens, were seen with the dog in a photo shared by the breeder,
Regal Empire Dobermans. Ear cropping, a cosmetic procedure, is condemned by many animal welfare groups and is illegal in several countries. PETA argues that Biles' decision to purchase a dog from a breeder, rather than adopting, contributes to the homeless animal crisis and promotes unnecessary cosmetic surgeries on animals.
Why It's Important?
This incident highlights ongoing debates about animal welfare practices, particularly concerning cosmetic procedures like ear cropping. PETA's criticism of a high-profile athlete like Biles brings significant attention to these issues, potentially influencing public opinion and consumer behavior regarding pet adoption and breeding practices. The controversy also underscores the ethical considerations of pet ownership and the responsibilities of public figures in setting examples for their followers. The lack of federal regulation on ear cropping in the U.S. further complicates the issue, as practices vary widely by state.
What's Next?
As of now, Simone Biles and Jonathan Owens have not publicly responded to PETA's criticism. The situation may prompt further discussions about the ethics of pet breeding and cosmetic procedures, potentially leading to increased advocacy for stricter regulations. Animal rights groups may continue to pressure public figures to adopt rather than purchase pets, aiming to reduce the number of animals in shelters. The breeder, Regal Empire Dobermans, may also face scrutiny over their practices, which could impact their business and influence industry standards.
