In animal welfare, we work in a challenging world. We speak for those who have no voices and represent a population whose natural reaction is to befriend and trust. That approach is more than a simple behavior, it’s a charge that compels us to come together when others seek to divide.

We were recently made aware that the K9 Rehab Institute, a private dog training business in Rio Rancho, New Mexico is offering a bumper sticker with a highly inappropriate, disturbing and even threatening message: “Rehabilitate a Dog. Euthanize an Animal Control Officer.”

The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement, The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), American Humane, The National Animal Care & Control Association and the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) find this kind of language completely unacceptable and in direct conflict with our commitment to improving the lives of animals, the people who care for them and the communities in which both live and thrive.

It is our ardent hope that the K9 Rehab Institute immediately retract this offensive bumper sticker and work to build a better, more collaborative and understanding relationship with animal control professionals who are on the front line protecting both animals and people.