PETA is not amused by Pooch Perfect, the new dog-grooming competition show from ABC with host Rebel Wilson.
For those unaware, the program has 10 teams trying to give their pets crazy looks to try and capture a $100,000 prize. It looks like the type of harmless thing that you may flip through without noticing, other then perhaps to pause and say “What the?” Otherwise it’s just dressing up dogs.
Lauren Thomasson, PETA’s senior manager of animals in film and television, made it clear that the organization doesn’t like it.
“Dogs are smart, loyal individuals — they’re not here for human amusement, and unfortunately, shows like Pooch Perfect can encourage people to restrain their dog and reach for the dye, even though doing so runs the risk of causing an allergic reaction that could even be fatal, in addition to stressing the animal,” Thomasson said to The Wrap. “PETA reminds animal guardians that dogs love us just the way we are — and we should respect them enough to do the same for them.”
On Tuesday, The New York Post put up a story in which Jorge Bendersky, a celebrity dog groomer who doubles as a judge on the show, said “Safety is always the first concern.” Vets also reportedly scanned the products used on the show to make sure they were non-toxic.
Anyone dyeing their dogs were advised by Bendersky to use temporary dog-safe dyes. Why, you ask? As he put it: “You can try to dye your dog pink — but, remember, that dog is going to shake. So you might end up with pink walls, and a pink sofa. You’ve got to really plan the logistics.”
On Tuesday’s premiere, a poodle was turned pink, and a white dog was made to look like a skunk.
Below are some examples in pictures to explain what the fuck I’m even talking about. “Don’t try this at home” should go without saying, but if you’re cool with inviting people to shout at you or pull over and kick your ass while you’re just taking your dog out for a walk then *shrugs* it’s your life:
