Statement From PETA, re Portland Family Who Called 911 on Cat

For Immediate Release:
March 11, 2014

A Portland, Ore., family reportedly called 911 on their cat, Lux, claiming that he had become “hostile” after being kicked. A statement from PETA Senior Vice President of Cruelty Investigations Daphna Nachminovitch follows:

There are many ways to foster appropriate behavior in our animal companions, but violence—including kicking and spanking—should never be one of them. PETA encourages all families to use positive reinforcement, which allows animals to learn quickly without losing trust in their guardians. If Lux’s family cannot patiently help him adjust his behavior, then Lux may be better off in a more suitable home—and we will reach out to the local humane society to offer our help in convincing Lux’s family to find a new home for him.