Governor's Shocking Puppy Decision Sparks Outrage: Is She Fit for Vice Presidency?

Governor's Shocking Puppy Decision Sparks Outrage: Is She Fit for Vice Presidency?

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Politicians and canine experts are criticizing South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem following revelations in her new book about the euthanization of a lively puppy. The backlash, particularly on social media, has raised questions about her suitability as a potential running mate for presumptive Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump.

Critics, including experts working with hunting dogs like those owned by Noem, argue that she should have opted for training rather than euthanasia, or explored other solutions if the dog's behavior was problematic.

Noem has attempted to reframe the narrative from two decades ago as a testament to her willingness to make difficult choices. She explained on social media that the 14-month-old wirehaired pointer, Cricket, exhibited aggressive behavior by biting. "As I detailed in the book, it was a tough decision," she stated. "But often, the easy path is not the right one."

Nonetheless, criticism has come from both Democrats and some conservatives.

Conservative commentator Tomi Lahrenco remarked online, "This story isn't resonating. Shooting dogs isn't a part of rural or ranch life."

Several social media users likened Noem to Cruella de Vil, the villain from Disney's "101 Dalmatians." One meme featured dogs looking horrified.

Joan Payton, from the German Wirehaired Pointer Club of America, expressed disbelief, saying, "I'm not sure which is stupider: the fact that she killed the dog or the fact that she published it in a book."

Reynold Nesiba, South Dakota Democratic Senate Minority Leader, viewed the disclosure as more strategic than foolish, suggesting that it was released now because Noem is under consideration as a vice presidential candidate.

In her forthcoming book, "No Going Back: The Truth on What’s Wrong with Politics and How We Move America Forward," Noem recounts taking Cricket on a bird hunting trip with older dogs to calm the wild puppy. Instead, Cricket chased pheasants, attacked a family's chickens, and then turned on Noem.

Noem's spokesperson did not immediately respond to inquiries from The Associated Press about whether the dog actually bit her or if she required medical attention. The publisher declined to provide AP with an advance copy of the book.

Following the incident, Noem recounted leading Cricket to a gravel pit and killing her. She also mentioned shooting a goat owned by the family, describing it as aggressive and prone to chasing her kids.

The reaction to the story was swift, with Democratic Minnesota Governor Tim Walz posting a photo online of him feeding his Labrador mix ice cream, contrasting it with Noem's actions.

President Joe Biden's reelection campaign highlighted a photo of him walking with one of his German Shepherds on the White House lawn. Two of Biden's dogs were removed due to aggressive behavior, while the oldest, Champ, passed away.

Conservative political commentator Michael Knowles stated on his podcast that while Noem could have handled the situation differently, there is nothing wrong with humanely euthanizing an animal. He later added that the story is "extremely stupid and insignificant" because Noem stands no chance of being selected as Trump's running mate.

Payton, who is a delegate to the American Kennel Club, criticized the entire situation, stating, "That was a puppy with no experience, obviously no training."

The National German Wirehaired Pointer Rescue urged Noem in a Facebook post to take responsibility for her "horrific decision" and educate the public on more humane alternatives.

"This was a person that I had thought was a pretty good lady up until now," Payton remarked. "She was somebody that I would have voted for. But I think she may have shot herself in the foot."

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