Target: Melinda Katz, District Attorney, Queens County, New York
Goal: Bring appropriate animal-cruelty charges, seek maximum penalties, lifetime animal-ownership and public-exhibition bans, and restitution for a dog reportedly kept motionless for hours without water while used for paid photos outside a major league ballpark.
Fans reportedly encounter a costumed dog positioned like a living prop for hours as crowds stream past a major league ballpark. Videos and eyewitness accounts describe sunglasses strapped on, multiple collars layered, and a rigid prop placed in the dog’s mouth that apparently stays there throughout long, hot afternoons. Onlookers further claim the dog only “shakes” or “poses” after cash drops into a jar, while immediate access to water or shade reportedly remains absent.
Observers allege an almost robotic stillness that raises serious welfare red flags. Reports indicate the dog does not pant normally despite heat, and that any “breaks” consist of a human moving a mat or pouring water on the dog’s back rather than providing free access to a bowl. A behavior specialist who reviewed imagery has publicly questioned the practice, while fans continue posting footage that appears to show prolonged restraint-like staging and pay-for-paw demands.
This situation apparently reflects commercial exploitation that may violate basic care standards as well as anti-cruelty laws. Sign below to demand a thorough investigation, seizure for veterinary evaluation if warranted, and—should evidence support it—criminal charges, maximum sentencing, and a court-ordered lifetime ban on owning or exhibiting animals. Strong enforcement would protect this dog and deter copycat sidewalk “photo-op” schemes.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear District Attorney Katz,
We are deeply concerned by reports and widely shared videos showing a costumed dog allegedly used as a paid photo prop for hours outside a major league ballpark. Eyewitnesses claim the animal remains unnaturally still with sunglasses strapped on, layered collars, and a prop fixed in the mouth, with no ready access to water while crowds pass. Accounts further allege the dog only “performs” after money goes into a jar, suggesting commercial exploitation that may compromise welfare.
Given these allegations, we respectfully request a prompt investigation with veterinary assessment and, if supported by evidence, appropriate animal-cruelty charges. We also urge your office to seek meaningful consequences upon conviction: maximum fines and jail where applicable, lifetime bans on animal ownership and public exhibition, restitution for care, and mandated education or counseling related to humane treatment.
Consistent, decisive enforcement will safeguard this dog, protect others from similar treatment, and send a clear message that monetizing animal suffering—however staged or costumed—will not be tolerated.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Petful
