Tom Brady accused of normalizing animal cruelty after controversial ‘kick the dog’ comment, faces PETA criticism

Tom Brady is once again at the center of attention, but this time it has nothing to do with his performance on the football field. During Fox Sports’ broadcast of the Dallas Cowboys and Chicago Bears game on September 21, the seven-time Super Bowl champion drew heavy criticism for a remark that many fans and animal rights advocates found troubling.As Cowboys receiver George Pickens slammed his helmet on the sideline, Brady tried to explain the frustration he saw on screen. “Those helmets can be … it’s like the dog at home. Kick the dog, throw the helmet, whatever it takes,” he said.The comment landed awkwardly. Broadcast partner Kevin Burkhardt did not respond, but viewers quickly did. Social media lit up with reactions ranging from disbelief to anger. One critic posted, “Tom Brady just promoted animal abuse on national television,” while another asked, “Did Tom Brady just casually admit to animal abuse?”The backlash grew strong enough to attract a response from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA). While the organization stopped short of accusing Brady of endorsing cruelty, it made its stance clear. “PETA encourages Brady to remember that millions of people listen to him, that the language we use can encourage kindness or violence towards animals, and that we should never normalize taking our frustration out on a beloved companion,” the group said in a statement.Adding to the storm, sports commentator Skip Bayless joined the debate, writing, “I hope Brady didn’t go home after bad losses and angrily throw the dog.” The remark drew attention to Brady’s well-documented affection for his own pets.In 2016, Brady and then-wife Gisele Bündchen adopted a rescue dog named Fluffy. They also had a pit bull mix named Lua, who passed away in 2023. At the time, Brady posted a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, writing, “We love you Lua. Forever in our hearts,” alongside photos of his children hugging their beloved pet.That history has made the comment even more confusing to fans who know Brady as an animal lover. Still, the criticism underscores how closely the public watches every word from high-profile figures.For Brady, now in his second season as Fox Sports’ lead analyst, this episode adds to what has already been a rocky run in the booth. Between scrutiny over his minority ownership stake in the Las Vegas Raiders and the pressure of his $375 million broadcasting contract, the future Hall of Famer has found that life behind the microphone can be just as intense as it was under center.Also Read: Nick Foles explains two powerful reasons why the NFL must not ban Eagles’ controversial tush push play