Target: Wilton Simpson, Commissioner of Agriculture, Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
Goal: Investigate stunt where dog was seemingly forced to endure terrifying, life-threatening jet ski ride.
A viral clip reportedly shows a golden retriever balanced on a jet ski as it is towed across Florida waters by a man using a water-propelled jet pack. Although the dog wears a life jacket, observers claim the craft moves at high speed and in choppy conditions, posing significant risk of impact, drowning, or spinal injury. Commenters online have branded the stunt “dangerous” and “horrible… animal abuse.”
According to news coverage, the animal appears unnaturally rigid while the jet ski is pulled by mechanical force rather than a driver. Critics argue that the dog could not have consented to such a frightening experience and was used as a prop for views and likes. Florida law defines animal cruelty as unnecessarily overloading or tormenting an animal; forcing a dog onto unstable, high-velocity equipment for entertainment seemingly meets that threshold.
Authorities must act swiftly. A thorough investigation can determine whether the dog was coerced, endangered, or injured. If evidence supports cruelty, charges and meaningful penalties should follow, sending a clear message that viral fame never justifies risking an animal’s life. Moreover, updated guidelines should forbid putting pets on jet skis, jet packs, or similar thrill-seeking devices.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Commissioner Simpson,
Recent media reports highlight a viral video in which a golden retriever is reportedly strapped into a life jacket and placed on a jet ski that is then towed by a man using a water-propelled jet pack. Viewers allege the craft travels at significant speed, creating conditions where a fall could cause drowning or severe injury. Many Floridians are alarmed that such a spectacle appears to place social-media engagement above a dog’s safety.
Florida’s anti-cruelty statute prohibits subjecting an animal to needless danger or torment. Forcing a companion animal onto unstable, motor-propelled equipment for amusement seemingly violates both the spirit and letter of that law. Allowing the video to circulate unchallenged risks normalizing ever-more-extreme stunts at the expense of animals.
We respectfully urge your department to:
Conduct a full investigation into the jet-ski incident, including interviews with the individual operating the jet pack and veterinary evaluation of the dog’s condition.
File appropriate misdemeanor or felony cruelty charges if the facts confirm reckless endangerment.
Develop and publicize clear guidance that forbids using pets on jet skis, jet packs, or similar high-risk devices, and coordinate with local law-enforcement agencies to enforce these rules.
Swift, decisive action will protect this dog and deter future exploitative stunts. Florida should be known for celebrating animals—not risking their lives for clicks.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: NY Post/Instagram
