PETA accuses Tom Brady of 'encouraging violence towards animals' after Birmingham minority owner makes 'kick the dog' remark during live broadcast of NFL game

Brady made the controversial comment during the weekend's NFL games, as the Chicago Bears took on the Dallas Cowboys. Having seen George Pickens throw his helmet to the ground in anger, the Birmingham minority owner likened the act to "kicking the dog". He said: "And Picks is not happy, yeah, those moments can be… like the dog at home. Kick the dog, throw the helmet, whatever it takes."

The People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) has issued a public response to Brady and encouraged him to be more mindful with his language, given his status as a role model. 

Per the Daily Mail, they said: "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."

Brady has a dog by the name of Fluffy, and was previously the owner of a canine by the name of Lua. In 2023, he posted on Instagram that Lua had passed away. He is, of course, known for his brilliant NFL career, winning no fewer than seven Super Bowl rings. 

Birmingham are enjoying a strong start to the Championship season under Brady's stewardship; they sit eighth in the Championship after eight games, winning three, drawing one, and losing two. They are next in action against Coventry City on Saturday.