Animal rights organization PETA has publicly criticized Olympic gymnast Simone Biles for acquiring a puppy with cropped ears. In a post on X, the group shared a photo of Biles alongside her husband, NFL player Jonathan Owens, and their new dog. PETA’s statement highlighted their concerns regarding the choice to obtain a pet from a breeder rather than adopting from a shelter.
According to PETA, Biles’s decision contributes to the ongoing homeless animal crisis. The organization stated, “Simone Biles could’ve gone for gold by adopting; instead, she fueled the homeless animal crisis by getting a dog, whose ears were cut off, from a breeder.” This critique emphasizes the broader ethical considerations surrounding pet adoption versus purchasing animals from breeders.
In its statement, PETA condemned the practice of cropping ears, describing it as a routine that should not be celebrated. “Getting a puppy from a greedy breeder & cropping their ears is a routine no one should applaud,” the organization added. They urged public figures like Biles to use their platform to promote animal welfare and encourage adoption.
As the conversation around pet ownership and animal rights continues, Biles’s actions have sparked significant discussion online. Many supporters of PETA argue that high-profile figures have a responsibility to set a positive example regarding animal welfare.
Newsweek has reached out to TEAM USA for comment on the matter outside of standard working hours. The organization has yet to respond, but the situation remains fluid as reactions from fans and animal rights advocates evolve.
This controversy highlights the ongoing debate surrounding pet ownership ethics and the responsibilities that come with it. As public sentiment shifts towards greater awareness of animal welfare issues, the actions of celebrities like Biles are increasingly scrutinized.
