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Kim Kardashian is facing criticism from animal rights organization PETA after revealing that she gifted each of her four children a puppy for Christmas, a move the group says sends the wrong message about responsible pet ownership.
The reality TV star and entrepreneur, who shares children North, 12, Saint, 10, Chicago, 7, and Psalm, 6, with ex-husband Kanye West, posted a series of Instagram Stories on Christmas Day showing four small Pomeranian puppies. Alongside a photo of the dogs sitting together, Kardashian wrote, "Each kid got a puppy," prompting swift backlash online.
In response, PETA founder Ingrid Newkirk issued a statement criticizing the gesture and urging the Kardashian family to rethink how they add animals to their household. "Puppies are not plushies," Newkirk said, adding that animals should not be treated as disposable gifts or accessories. She argued that Kardashian missed an opportunity to promote adoption from shelters instead of purchasing puppies.
Newkirk also extended her criticism to Kardashian's sister Khloé Kardashian, who shared photos of a black Labrador retriever puppy gifted to her family on Dec. 25. According to PETA, celebrities have a unique platform and responsibility to model humane choices when it comes to animals.
The organization encouraged Kim Kardashian to take steps to "make amends," suggesting that her children volunteer at local animal shelters, sponsor adoption events, or support spay-and-neuter programs aimed at reducing the number of homeless
animals. PETA has long opposed the commercial breeding industry, arguing that millions of dogs remain in shelters waiting for homes.
A representative for Kardashian did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
This is not the first time the Kardashian-Jenner family has drawn attention for their pets. Over the years, Kim and her children have shared photos of various animals, including multiple Pomeranians and a bearded dragon named Speed. Kardashian previously welcomed two Pomeranians into her family in 2019 and also owns another named Sushi.
The broader Kardashian-Jenner clan is known for its love of animals, with Kylie Jenner owning several dogs and Kendall Jenner famously caring for a horse named Arizona. Still, critics argue that visibility comes with responsibility, especially during the holidays.
