Romney is taking heat for the way he transported his dog on family trips.
(CNN) - Under fire from a leading animal rights group, former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney defended the family dog's mode of transportation to a 1983 summer vacation.
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) criticized the Republican presidential hopeful after The Boston Globe reported that Romney transported his dog in a rooftop carrier when the family drove from Boston to Ontario.
"If you wouldn’t strap your child to the roof of your car, you have no business doing that to the family dog," Ingrid Newkirk, president of PETA said in a statement. "I don’t know who would find that acceptable."
The article noted that Romney had built a wind shield carrier to make the ride more comfortable for the family's Irish Setter.
But on the campaign trail in Pennsylvania Thursday, Romney defended his chosen mode of transportation for the family dog.
"He scrambled up there every time we went on trips, got in all by himself and enjoyed it," Romney said of the Irish Setter.
Romney also conceded any endorsement of his candidacy by the group was unlikely.
"PETA has not been my fan over the years. PETA was after me for having a rodeo at the Olympics," he said in reference to his role as chief executive of the 2002 Winter Games in Salt Lake City, Utah. "PETA was unhappy when I went quail hunting in Georgia, and they're not happy that my dog likes fresh air."
– CNN Political Desk Editor Jamie Crawford
From CNN Politics
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I feel so informed.
A condemnation by a hypocritical, radical organization like PETA makes me think Romney may be ok.
If Bush wants to fight the war on terrorism, start with the group that funds Coronado and ELF.
This is such a ridiculous story that I cannot even believe educated people are caring about this. PETA needs to find something substantial to do with their days if they are witch hunting events from 1983! They need to get off their high horse and stop purposefully picking fights with people they don't like for personal reasons.
It's too bad PETA doesn't stand for People for the Eating of Tasty Animals. Then I would be a member.
But seriously, if PETA is anti-Romney then I may just vote for him
The political system has gone to the Dog's, why not the news. They both play fetch in the end, one the ball and
the other what ever the big Co. throw out.
I'm very offended! How can we take PETA seriously if they get their horses high?
That's it.. my vote is now solid for Romney- and his dog.
Sounds like Mr. Romney has ticked off the right people! Good on ya, Mitt!!
“PETA was unhappy when I went quail hunting in Georgia, and they’re not happy that my dog likes fresh air.”
No, I believe they are unhappy that your putting an animals life at risk by strapping it to the roof of your car. Why doesn't he ride up there, I bet he'd feel awfully safe being secured by a couple bungie cords around a win-shielded box. If your dog like fresh air, crack a window.
I agree it doesn't have much to do about politics, but this is why there are animal protection agencies.
Some of the comments are foolish and tired, and lacking in thought.
Please think for a moment. Would you strap your dog on the top of a car roof (although it was a makeshift container), drive miles and still feel your dog had a good experience? If like Romney you said your dog enjoyed it (yeah?!?) than more power to you. I personally would NEVER do that with my dog. She rides IN the car with the rest of us. She is a part of our family not a 'thing' like luggage that is strapped to the roof of my car.
I am not with PETA. I wanted to state that just in case some of you want to be rude and crude.
Traveling with your dog on top of your car does seem cruel on the face of it, but it all depends on how he had the cage setup. My dogs love riding in the open air of a truck.
Is it really so hard to do a little more research before splashing attack headlines??
If you vote for Romney because PETA is upset with him (or for any other reason, for that matter), then I FEAR for this Country's continued existence. In fact, I'm going to start making plans to get as far away as possible.
DMW
First of all, this event is 25 years ago.
I suppose that all those dogs that ride in the back of pick up trucks in the wind are to be felt sorry for as well? Also, the dog wasn't strapped, it was the carrier the dog rode in. Please explain the big difference of this and riding in a carrier in a plane cargo hold or the back of a pick-up? The man built a wind barrier, the dog got to go on vacation and wasn't left at home. If you want to treat your dog equally to a human, that is your choice, but this dog doesn't sound like he suffered one bit. And if Romney's foes have to go this far back to find such feeble dirt, he may end up with my vote.
Dogs also like to ride in open trick beds, stand on open car windows, and sit on your lap while you're trying to drive. Does Romney also let children do whatever they want, whether it's safe or not? PETA's not always right, by any means, but they are about this.
Iam OK with the dog riding in a secured, custom made for comfort in regards to his dog, BUT....now I know he feels rodeo's in this day and age are not inhumane treatment of animales, I know I would not vote in in office and expect him to be a humane president. Too bad, he was looking like he might have gooten my Rep. vote.
Although I'm not a fan of PETA, in this case I must agree with them. Anyone who possessed an ounce of intelligence would know better than to transport their dog in a rooftop carrier. My dog would love to eat a chocolate bar, but I know it's a potential threat to his health. My dog enjoys licking his butt, but I try to discourage it.
If you don't know how to take proper care of your pets, then how are you going to take care of an entire country?
Heck, I wish I had thought of that. My dogs love riding in the back of the truck. They get 10 times the smells than when they're walking, but when I fill up the bed of truck with stuff, I have nowhere to put them. Thanks to PETA, I have a new idea to put them up on the roof so they can still get the smelling in. I could vote for a guy with new, innovative ideas like this.
Give me a break that was what in 1983? I guess
they have to dig deep to find dirt.
Whether or not Mr. Romney's placing his dog on top of his car is cruel or not his point of view on rodeos is misplaced. As for hunting, I suppose that he does not consider killing an animal cruel. Perhpas Mr. Romney would like to consider if the animal wanted to die.
I think that's terrible to strap his on top of his vehicle. I totally agree with PETA. Suppose that thing had suddenly come loose? That dog would be killed. Shame on Mr. Romney, and his family for allowing this to happen.
Back at that same time, when I was a kid, we never wore seat belts, never wore a bike helmet, we would sit on my dad's lap on long road trips and pretend to help drive the car or, sit in the front passenger seat with my mom and read. Back in the day, pets were treated like animals, not people. Times are different. This is such a non-story. How is this any different than the people who put their dogs in the back of their trucks. At least the dog was secured.
I've been laughing for twenty minutes now. Check out this quote:
"...but I know it’s a potential threat to his health. My dog enjoys licking his butt, but I try to discourage it.
If you don’t know how to take proper care of your pets, then how are you going to take care of an entire country?"
Q: So if Romney taught his dog to use toilet paper, would that make him fit to run the country?
While I'm not a fan of Mitt or PETA, it was over two decades ago and our awareness of animal safety was totally different. My very educated parents (who always seat-belted us kids in) used to let the dog ride in the back of the truck, while the dog we have now gets belted in like everyone else with a special harness. And dogs sometimes like ridiculous things and it's hard to convince them not to want them–it's easier to make it as safe and pratical as possible and go with the flow.
Seriously, strapping an animal to the top of a car is just careless and thoughless.
Romney is a good person and a great candidate.
I would gladly strap someone from PETA to the top of my car for a 5 hour trip.
Thank you, CNN, for reporting this and making us all dumber.
Who cares what Romney did with his dog...I just want to know what he's done as Governor of Mass. Is the state worse or better off with him being Governor?
I was a supporter of Romney and while I agree PETA pushes the limits more often than not. I disagree with allowing a dog to ride in the back of a pickup, accidents can and do happen. No one should strap any living creature (in a carrier or not) to the roof of a car. What if it fell off? Then his children (who were young at the time) would have had to see that? And for those of you who think simply because Romney and PETA clash you're going to vote for him, well I can blame the sad state of this country squarely at your feet, that's like voting for someone because he wears Armani suits. Completely ludicris.
There are soooo many important issues facing our nation. But, PETA people in their infinite wisdom want to argue about a politician's choices in 1983 for pet transport? I must admit, I would have never thought of his particular method of dog transport, but I find it nothing but amusing. Get a life Ingrid! People and animals do not have equal rights! Don't expect people to treat children and pets the same way. If you treat them the same, good for you, but the vast majority of humanity would disagree with your point of view. Give it a rest!
Read the rest of the story, folks. Romney says his dog enjoyed the 12 HOUR RIDE! But when he pulled into a gas station, he found the poor animal had urinated and defecated all over itself AND the top of thge station wagon. Oh yeah, he really enjoyed the ride. So what does the jerk do, clean the animal up and tuck him safe and sound with the kids? NO! The cruel, heartless, jerk hoses the dog and the car down and continues on with the trip. He's a coldhearted beast, who has no business owning an animal let alone watching out for the weakest among us.
Yeah, because people that hunt animals are certainly pro-life!
"Q: So if Romney taught his dog to use toilet paper, would that make him fit to run the country?"
Wow, Mr. Stewart, I'm glad you got such a hoot out of that. A man puts a dog up on his rooftop carrier, drives for 12 hours without stopping, not even when the dog defecates and it drips down the window.
Yeah, that always cracks me up.
Romney is a jerk.
SO WHAT
WE ARE ALL TREATED LIKE DOG'S ANY WAY
JUST THE ELETIST CONGRESS AND SENATE GET TAKEN CARE OF
Is this the same organization that was recently caught stuffing dead dogs in public trash cans??
PETA needs to get a grip and a life!!! They are wackos.
Who else was thinking of the dog in National Lampoon's Vacation when you were reading this article?
I've never been a supporter of PETA, but seriously, strapping your dog to the roof of your car?! Uh...yeah...
Sorry Mitt, I thought your were a possible contender, but with your obviously stupid decision making abilities, your going to do yourself in.
I'm not sure 24 year old conduct is relevant but... putting a dog on the roof is screwed up. I'm no PETA warrior or anything but that's out there, even for 1983. PETA should maybe find some more recent and relevant events to posture on and I hope Romney's views on animal care have matured.
So I guess since kids don't ride in the cargo section of planes then that is abuse also. And we don't leave kids home alone so leaving a dog alone at home is abuse under this theory also. This whole subject is ridiculous... I could see if he dragged it behind but that is not the case.
LOL! Remember the movie Vacation when Clark straps Sparky to the bumper and takes off? Oh, good times!!
I'm sure Mitt wouldn't have been too happy if he had to suddenly stop and the dog's carrier flew off. But, I guess we've had run out of things to say about these candidates if we are focusing on their dogs now huh?
Anyone that thoughtless and cruel to an animal does not deserve to be a parent, much less president.
Had to comment on this one!! With all the world in termoil if this is the biggest strike againest Romney then I say elect him now. PETA? Whatever!!
In all fairness, it was in 1983. That was when it was ok to ride in the back of a pickup truck too... We also played on metal playground equipment. OOOOH!! However, if he tried it nowadays, –that would be a problem...
Romney traveling with his dog on the roof for "fresh air" indicates intelligence on the dog's part. The ignorance of Romney probably encouraged the dog to seek other accommodations, no matter how dangerous!
Dogs are not people, they are not your children.
I loved my dog, and was heart stricken when he found a hole in the fence that we didn't know about and got out and hit by a car. My wife was traumatized, we felt horrible.
But it was our dog, not our child. If my child got out and hit by a car, you'd call for me to be arrested for child endangerment. We treat children differently than animals.
Ethical treatment of animals is NOT the same as pretending that they are people. Our unhealthy obsession with pets as a nation is a bit twisted. I miss my dog terribly, but he never occupied the same place as my heart as my child does.
Life involves choices, and favoring the children while treating the dog like a pet isn't a bad one.
"drives for 12 hours without stopping, not even when the dog defecates and it drips down the window"
There isn't a station wagon anywhere that can drive twelve hours without stopping. You're exaggerating the story, you weren't there. You don't know how many times they stopped or if the dog got out of the cage at stops, etc. All you have is a 25 year old recollection from a young kid, selective editing from a journalist and people willing to exaggerate the situation to serve their own agenda.
Moreover, I was laughing at the dog licking and stated so, you twisted that as well.
Romney is a good family man who tried to include a dog on a vacation with seven people and their luggage in a station wagon. And people foaming at the mouth over this incident say more about themselves than anyone else.
Perhaps, Romney's family treats the
dog this way, because the police and the animal protection laws allow it.
After all, each State has its own laws.
Just go into another State and find out.
So Ms Newkirk, are you saying that putting a lease on a dog is unacceptable because you wouldn't do that to a child?
How about letting them out to use the bathroom? What, Did you potty train your dog??
It has been proven for 100's of years that a dog will wag his tail & lick the hand that beats him.....he has no choice but to do as his master commands! Perhaps Romney should be given a ride atop a car going about 80mph & see how HE likes it!!!!
At least he didn't attach his dog's leash to the back bumper of the car like Chevy Chase did in National Lampoon's "Vacation".
This is ridiculous, I hate Romney with a passion but my doggies would love a roofdeck for my car. I might build one this weekend. And what is wrong with quail hunting? I am not a hunter but shooting it yourself is more ethical than having someone else do it for you. I hate PETA and I hate my wife, who is a PETA member. PETA could actually do good if they did not make a big stink out of non-issues like this one. I'm going to KFC today just to spite these people.
are the people who run PETA mentally handicapped? What is wrong with these idiots? To compare a family pet to a child is asinine and just shows how fanatical and out of touch with reality these animal rights people are. Why don't the lunatics at PETA use their time to really make a difference in the world instead of wasting it like they are. I dont think i'm in the minority when I say that the PETA people are really annoying and need to just relax and hush up.
This guy ought to be strapped to the roof of a car for a while while Fido drives and THEN he can tell us that what he did is OK. What a dismissive, condescending moron.
I would really like to strap his kids to the roof of the car and see how they like it... or even his wife. Who straps their dog to the roof of a car!! On many occasions I see people on the sides of the road after their valuables, and luggage toppled of their roof of the car. What would happen if that happened to his poor pooch? He probably wouldn't even stop.
Figures, another republican who has absolutely no respect for another living thing... people... animals... nobody. Perhaps if his dog were made of oil he'd let him join the family inside of his vehicle.
The fact that a small detail to a very lengthy and objective 7-part series of Romney in the Boston Globe made its own headline is laughable.
Obviously this guy dosn't treat his dog with the love and compassion of a true animal lover, Why don't we strap his behind to the roof of a car and take him for a ride. Remember dogs, cats and any pets are a living breathing thing and should be treated as such!
So it happened over 20 years ago, the point is that he is defending it NOW! He has no respect for life, which is obvious by his support for rodeos, quail hunting and the way he treated the family dog. A leader should be humane and not act like some barbarian!
I've read some of the comments regarding Romney's mode of transportation for his dog. I strongly disapprove of his method. While this is not earth-shattering news, the comments by some of you disturb me – how can you be so uncaring about the treatment of an animal that soley depends on its family for its well-being. When we take on the responsibility of having a pet, we also take on the responsibility of that animal's health and safety. I totally agree with the the idea that if your wouldn't strap your child to the roof of a car, you shouldn't strap your pet to the roof of the car. PETA may have some outrageous methods, but at least they're passionate about caring for those who cannot care for themselves.
Regardless of whether or not the family doog appeared to enjoy his rides on the top of the family car is not the issue. The issue is Mr. Romney's lack of sensable judgement. There are so many things that can and do go wrong that I would think he'd want a much loved pet within his view and protected from the unexpected road hazzards. Debris, insect stings and the launched rock can all have devistating consequences when there is no one to witness them and attend to those emergencies. As the species that is supposed to be intelligent we need to consider the total picture and assess the 'what if's' in making decisions for those who are in our care. In hind site Mr. Romney was fortunate and so was his dog that nothing happened. But explain to your children why their much loved pet is hurt or worse because of your thoughtless actions or are you one of those who is immune to acountability?
To EGS from Maryland!
Speak for yourself EGS! Perhaps you need to get a clue! I beg to differ with you, the VAST MAJORITY DO TREAT THEIR PETS THE SAME AS THEIR KIDS! Why you ask? Because pets ARE part of the family! Now go crawl back in the hole you came out of and STAY THERE!
I am horrified not only at this type of behavior, but also at his callous response, and inability to see the error of his ways.
This is cruelty to animals plain and simple. I truely hope, given this exposure it never happens again to that poor dog.
Not even Hillary would do that (and that is quite a low threshold of behavior).
He's out.
Guillermo – Omaha, NE
I'm no big fan of PETA, but I do care about this. Its not about whether or not the dog enjoyed riding on the roof of the car, its about whether allowing him to do so is safe and responsible behavior. I'm sure anything thinking person would agree with me that it was neither safe nor responsible.
PETA doesn't like you because you are inhumane...not because your dog "likes fresh air". So does my dog, but he rides IN THE CAR, not on top like luggage. If he likes the wind, open a window!
yes, animals are living things as well and should be reasonably cared for if they are adopted by a family, BUT THEY ARE NOT PEOPLE AND SHOULD NOT BE EQUATED TO HUMAN BEINGS, EVEN IMPLYING THAT IS DUMB!
What an idiot. His dog "enjoyed" it? I'm sure there are lots of children who also would enjoy riding on the top of a truck, that doesn't make it a good idea.
This is yet another example of PETA's misdirected causes. When will this organization start to research the facts before spouting off on something they know nothing about? The dog obviously enjoyed his perch and the ride. This is so trivial. Find something more important to needlessly whine about, PETA!
Why in the world would someone bring up this issue 24 years later. How ridiculous. Someone obviously needs to get a life. There are so many bigger issues in this world that that time and energy could be spent on.
I'm from Massachusetts and no fan of Romney's policies, but he is a decent person. This PETA is just a lobbying group trying to get some press. They should stick to stories about really cruel behavior. This level of complaint makes them look like a bunch of cranks.
By the way, in 1964 I saw the country from be back of an Impala wagon, which was steel lined. Times change, and what my parents did back then doesn't consititute child abouse today. It just doesn't, regardless of what some lobbying group says.
PETA has gotten "anal" over the years. Don't know who's running PETA but they certainly have their share of "fanatics"!!
Rommney...showing the same cocky, "I'm right, you are wrong" attitude of another Republican I can think of...yikes, verrrrry scary!
Mr. Rommney, did the dog have access to water, was the sun hot in the cage (you can call it a crate, it is still a cage...) how many breaks did the doggie get - these are questions we do not know, and oh, did the animal have enought room to stand up and turn around, I sure hope so.
I thank goodness for organizations such as PETA for trying to raise the general mentality about the suffering of animals in this country and beyond. Shame on the people that make fun of those that at least try.
Pets are not something we are obligated to have.. like an unexptected child..simply do not get pets if you don't want to or don't know how to take care of them.. I think this is awful, and thank god his kids did not have to see their dog splattered all over the highway.. a man that would do something like this does not have an ounce of compassion for a living being.. and certainly we do not and could not live on this planet alone.. so if Romney can not even take care of a dog.. and by the way, defecating and urinating all over themselves is how animals manifest severe stress.. so the dog was not happy.. I feel bad for the dog.. as they are prisoners in our home, get out when we let them, eat what we feed them.. we at least owe them dignified, proper care.. or don't get them.. simple as that, noone is forcing you!!
People are simply using the dog excuse as a reason to justify not voting for Romney because of his Mormon faith...
As a child, I remember PETA ruining a concert for elementary kids in Dallas by passing out flyers with dead cats on them after they were skinned... lots of class in that group! But that doesn't mean this group is awful.. it's important, but some of the people in it jumped off the crazy train.
Now I think that what he did is unacceptable to do to any animal, but you can't sit there and tell me that he is the ONLY candidate that has a past you may question or dislike. What's important is how they respond and be honest... like this man did. I only look at the policies and how well they have done prior to determine who I vote for... imagine that concept
I don't know who I will end up voting for right now. But I do know that I'd vote for a man that strapped his dog carrier on the car before I would vote for a man or woman who supports ILLEGAL ALIENS and not the American citizens! PETA and all it's supporters are ridiculous!
I don't even like Mitt Romney, however, read on. What I find completely hilarious is we barely strapped in children to car seats in 1983. The fact that you have to go back to 1983 to dig something up on this guy...stretch it out and exaggerate it to a point I don't comprehend. An article like this makes me like him more because that's all they got? Please. I mean the dog is alive. I thought the dog died or something. I can't wait for the day we give cats and dogs voting rights but definitely not birds.
Support movement to prevent Romney from placing dogs on top of cars – order your dog T-shirt today – http://www.cafepress.com/johntirrell.146001530
Romney revels his idiocy every time he speaks. Romney doesn't realize that he doesn't need to go out and kill creatures since even Utah have grocery stores packed with slaughtered animals who end up in the trash. He's (Romney) just another Cheney with a different mask, Americans have had enough of the same OLD mentality.
I can't believe a mormon seriously could be considered for president. Especially someone with no common sense. Who puts a dog on the roof of their car? Who cares what PETA says, oh my god, what an idiot.
I'm sorry...who the hell straps their DOG to the roof of their car??? That's so weird and wrong. This guy is bizarro.
Ok, so the story is old, not about politics, and I'm not a fan of PETA. But drive your dog around in a carrier on the roof of your car, who the heck does that?
Whether 20 years ago or yesterday, strapping the dog to the roof of the car is WRONG and CRUEL. I'd like to strap Mr. Romney on the roof of the car for 12 hours and see how much fresh air he would enjoy. I will never vote for him and or anyone like him. I am disgusted with his actions and his family for allowing it to happen.
Honestly, this happened over 20years ago. If they have to go this far back in order to gather any dirt on Gov Romney I think that says a lot for him. I don't understand how you people that work with PETA or think like them can exist. You have the right to think as you may, but please use some logical reasoning. Someone said that "PETA helps those who can't help themselves." Statements such as this show your ignorance. So what did animals do before becoming domesticated? Were you there to protect their rights? Even now that they are domesticated they can run away and survive perfectly fine. THEY ARE ANIMALS NOT HUMANS. It doesn't take an ivy league education to figure that out.
While I do not always agree with PETA, in this case I am in PERFECT AGREEMENT with them! I have worked with Humane Societies in 4 states and I have owned dogs my whole 48 years on this earth. Many of my dogs have shown "quirky" behavior but just because they "seem" to enjoy some things does not mean that you let them do it. Especially if it could be harmful to them, and I think this is a "no brainer"!!! They are like children...we have to love and protect them! The Dachshund(Jean-Luc)that "owns" me now is treated just like a child. He owns my heart and I would NEVER allow him to engage in dangerous behavior! Thank you for publishing this article...I certainly know who NOT to trust!!! Cindy C.
Who cares that PETA is involved. This guy Mitt just sounds ludacris! Who would be so idiotic?
Seriously, don't we have more important things to be worrying about in this world than whether Mr. Romney transported his dog in a safe manner 24 years ago? I am sure even the family dog is laughing at the story all the way from doggie heaven....
Is that it?!?!? That's all they've got on him?!?!? Putting his dog in a carrier to ride on the top of his car TWENTY-FOUR years ago is something we need to worry about NOW?!?!? Come on, people! PETA must be coming pretty close to completely useless if they're using this as their latest soapbox!
If Romney is elected, Air Force One is going to look awfully silly with a dog carrier strapped to the roof.
In all seriousness, I'm a dog lover and all for protection and care for animals, so I don't think this is really a good idea. That being said, I think PETA stinks. The idea behind them might be good, but their antics over the years are insane. They are a terrible organization.
"I can’t believe a mormon seriously could be considered for president. Especially someone with no common sense. Who puts a dog on the roof of their car? Who cares what PETA says, oh my god, what an idiot."
Posted By Quinn, Washington, DC : June 29, 2007 2:13 pm
Wow, nice bigotry. I personally can't believe people like you believe in the constitution. Maybe you should go somewhere without freedom of religion. Please don't forget the many who fought and died, those who worked and sacrificed to build this country and allow us Relgious TOLERANCE. We are all entitled to believe as we may.
I don't know if I would ever vote for this guy, but a dog's a dog people. Anyone comparing them to people is just off their rocker. Also being slammed by a group that funds terrorism is probably a good thing for any American.
Non-issue; happened in 1983...I'm sure we have all done dumb things since then.
And what is this nonsense about him driving 12 hours without stopping to let the dog relieve himself? Come on people – you cant drive 12 hours straight on a tank of gas and anyone with a car full of kids can testify they need to stop every few hours for their own bio-breaks. Someone has an ax to grind and is blantantly trying to stir the pot needlessly. Think about it...
Fresh air is letting your dog out for a run. Not being strapped to a car and getting 50mph worth of it! As soon as Romney rides up there for twelve hours (ever though he's bigger and it would be easier and less cruel for him), then we will believe him about the fresh air. My message to Romney- take the ride yourself or deal with the consequences for such a bad, inconsiderate, cruel, and irresponsible decision. Do we really want someone who cannot even treat a dog well to be responsible for the treatment of millions of people and leading the United States and the vast amount of others the US President affects?
I say: If you can't handle caring for a dog you can't handle caring for the country.
Ignore the fact that this is PETA making the statement - we all know that their whackjobs. The fact is, Romney strapped the dog to the top of his car, stated "We're going 12 hours straight with no stops!" and then left the frightened dog up there until it shat itself and poop ran down the back of the car. He then hoses the dog off, and leaves him on the top of the car, to continue to be frightened. Sounds like a great person, huh? Someone I sure want to vote for.
First of all this might be quite lengthy. But this whole story and comments are the most pathetic thing that I have read. I can't believe that I wasted my time reading it all.
Anyhow, I believe that a human and an animal are not equal (even though they are both living). How many of you would have a difficult time deciding between your kid or your pet if they where both in danger. I would hope you would all say your kid without a second thought. This would mean that you pet is expendable or not as equal in importance as your kid. So to compare the dog to a human is a ridiculous argument. I still believe in the humane treatment of animals but I really don't see the difference between a roof top carrier, a back of a truck, or a luggage compartment on an airplane. They all are treating a pet as luggage. Whether they like it or not we’ll never know so if where going to give romney a hard time for this than we better get on the wagon and yell at everyone who travels with their pets in the truck or luggage compartment on a plane. On top of that we should probably get mad at those who leave their pets at home for hours or days on end all by themselves. Pets have survived in the wild far longer than you or I. They are strong living creatures. A little ride in a protected carrier or in the back of a truck or as luggage on a plane or staying home by themselves for a day or two is not going to harm them. All this crap about a pet being more than a pet is ridiculous. All those who put sweaters on them so they don’t freeze or feed them human food or teach them to not lick their butts or use toilets or on and on are just all out right idiotic. Again they survived without these things for centuries and they will continue to live without them for centuries without them. In fact those kind of things probably stress them out more than anything, they are not sure if they are an animal/pet or a human. Just think before all this crap they knew they were a dog or a cat or whatever. Now they are not sure!!!
> “If you wouldn’t strap your child to the roof of your car, you have no business doing that to the family dog,”
This is the great fallacy of PETA and its followers: Equating animals with people. There IS an order to dignity. I hope to teach my child math, the piano, and logic. During this time, if I have a dog, it will chew its bone outside in the yard where it belongs. See the difference.
It may have happened over 20 years ago, but his attitude is the same. He's an ass. I don't support PETA, but they are dead on.
By the way, it's illegal in most states to have that dog in the open back of your truck and it's EXTREMELY DANGEROUS. So, you are all morons, too, apparently.
It's the attitude he still has about it today that matters. For some of us who can't have kids, our dogs are like children to us. But besides that, they are LIVE BEINGS that should be treated with respect.
And, yes, I totally thought about National Lampoon's Vacation lol
Anyone remember stories from your parents (or better yet you) about how when they were little, they bounced around without seatbelts in a car going 80 mph? So if we find out that Hilary Clinton did this to Chelsea on car trips, are we going to tear her a new one??? No way... lay off and until Romney did something illegal or has a horrible stance on something, come talk to me
What an idiot. I hope someone straps him to the top of his car so he can "enjoy" that kind of ride too.
PETA is a joke! "If you wouldn't strap your child to the roof...." is an absolutely ridiculous statement. It is a dog, not a human being. I am not in favor of animal cruelty, however a child is far more precious than a dog.
That dog was lucky. What a fun ride.
And give me a break people, people sit on motorcycles everyday and go 100mph. Go get them first before you after a guy whose dog WANTED to ride on top of a vehicle like that.
Oh yeah, 25 years ago too.
“If you wouldn’t strap your child to the roof of your car, you have no business doing that to the family dog,” Ingrid Newkirk, president of PETA said in a statement. “I don’t know who would find that acceptable.”
Well, I dont lock my kids in a cage, does this mean that I cant put my dog in his kennel??
How can you write this off because it happened in 1983. Yes, I did some stupid things in the past. But I accept responsibility for those actions. I don't act like what I did was right.
That's what strikes me about this story. Romney wasn't a child. He was a mature adult. And what he did seems outrageous to me. Stapping a dog kennel to the roof of a car?? And it didn't say he went 12 hours without stopping. It said the dog pooped and peed all over the car, and Romney had to clean up the car when he stopped for gas!!
This was way wrong. And it's a sign of Romney's lack of principle that he would try to make political hay by criticizing PETA rather than admitted he did something stupid.
This is so ridiculous!
I say as long as the dog isn't attached to a leash through the car window, and being dragged, i.e., like the little man figure "Napoleon Dynamite" threw out the bus window, PETA should seek more meaningful issues to talk about!
Seriously, this man lies, abuses animals and who-knows whatelse, and claims to be religious! IF he wins the nomination, I will be convinced this country has gone to hell.
If this is all we can find on this guy as to why he should not be President than I think my vote will go to him. All of the other Rep. Canidates are defending multiple divorces and adultry charges and all we can find on this guy is that he let his dog ride on top of the car. This was almost 25 years ago, most cars didn't even have shoulder straps on thier seat belts, so I am sure there we not any fancy doggie harnesses to keep a silly dog in the back seat next to the other kids. I think any one that spends money on a doggie seat belt needs to have thier head examined. Its a dog people not a child. I do not think it is ok to beat an animal but some people should be beat for over treating an animal. If it were not for human interaction, these animails would be out in the woods eating raw meat and being eaten by the next level of the food chain. I love my dog but she is not part of the family. She is a pet.
If one can impose a pet to such a danger, one would not care for human life as well. I think that Mitt Rodney's ambisions to become the next President should be over. He can examplify himself to his own children.
Pretty pathetic if you think...
Romney is just not a very bright man. Anyone with a moderate amount of intelligence knows that it's the same for children as with pets–you can't let them do everything they want, because some things are just plain unsafe.
You don't let kids ride in the back of a pick up truck, and you don't let a dog ride on top of a car, etc.-just b/c they want to do it. Someone needs to use a brain! Maybe Romney will let his dog decide how he feels about the war, global warming, and healthcare. Sheesh!
Romney is obviously unthinking, cruel, arrogant human. He thinks his dog likes fresh air? At 70mph? Romney stance on putting his dog on the roof is amazing uncompassiate for other living entities. Not a good trait for a president.
Why would anyone want him for president anyway, his relative George Romney used to be Governor of Michigan and was worthless.
If elected I think he will strap us all to a car roof!
How stupid can they get...wait don't answer that...
My God people! This isn't about PETA. His son was the one to open up and tell everyone the story.
I'm not for PETA and I think that they're ridiculous, but the fact that he was callous enough to make such a stupid move makes me realize that he's a moron.
And being that I'm from Mass., I have more experience with his moronic behavior and attitude.
The guy's a loser.
The man is a menace.
Doesn't matter if it was 25 years ago or 25 days ago. What it says to me is that you have someone who would not be for animal rights. Animals are living breathing creatures. Did we forget that? Tell me he will strap one of these sex offenders on his roof and drive that far..and then and only then will he get my vote!!
This event happened repeatedly, NOT just once in 1983. Ahem, Romney said that this was the routine for many of their family vacations.
He simply has poor judgment. God help us, if this guy becomes the Republican presidential candidate.
Perhaps the dog would have been better off in the car left to suffocate in a cage with the windows rolled up when they stopped to eat or fuel up. He obviously liked to get in the cage and probably enjoyed the fresh air, just as Romney said. I love dogs, and don't see a problem with what he did. The reason PETA is bringing it up now is because in 1983, it wouldn't have been considered a problem. I was 12 years old and that's when we drank from the same soda pop bottle as 5 of our friends and didn't care, we actually played played sports and got exercise instead of playing video games all day, and I got spanked for doing something wrong. I didn't do it again because I knew what the outcome would be. There were also no "time outs" or "negotiating" with parents.
Regardless, he has my vote now that I know PETA is against him.
You may not like PETA, but they've got a point-if Mitt Romney cannot be trusted to take care of his dog properly, then how can he be trusted to be responsible with nukes and terrorist threats? Just another excuse NOT to vote for him, as if you needed one.
Even George Bush wouldn't do something as ignorant as strap his dog to the top of a moving car.
It's hilarious that liberals care more about the welfare of animals than aborted human lives..
Makes me question why CNN would give PETA air time? They are just another fringe group that seeks attention by attacking good people.
Leave it to a mainstream media outlet like CNN to make this about one group who complained (a group they can use to make anti-Romney, anti-cruelty people look bad) and not about Romney's cruel actions. I'm sure the perspective would have been different had it been a Dem candidate who did this, not that any of them would be that cruel.
And leave it to the stereotypical hateful idiot commentators to like Romney better than before or vote for him simply because PETA (or even other more mainstream animal lovers)are against him. The politics of division and spite got us in the bad situation we are in today. Let's not continue that.
If you have to go back 24 years to 1984 to dig dirt from a guy and you can only find out that he traveled with his dog on with windshild kennel on the top of his car during a vacation, and that's the best you can find, then your pretty pathetic, and he's pretty untainted. A report like this makes his Anti-Romney's look so dumb.
I see dogs in the back of pick-up trucks all the time. What is the diffrence if its in the bed of a pick-up or in a kennel attached to the roof of the car? Also PETA you can come over to my house and I can tell you a story for every deer head on my wall. I bet I get a letter on this.
I beg to differ with the comment on top. Animal rights and cruelty to animals is newsworthy. And would be an agenda in office.
How cruel. I would never vote for anyone with such poor judgement. He's lost my support.
As a parent, Governor Romney should have enough common sense to know that what children, and this case, pets enjoy doing, may not necessary be a safe act. It is up to us, as responsible parents, to make sound judgement at times to protect their safety and the safety of others. Just like we would not let our children drive recklessly or under the influence of alcohol even if they "enjoy" the thrill of it, Governor Romney should never have let his dog travel in a manner that may endanger himself or the safety of other drivers. The only family "pet" for an individual who has shown such a lack of judgement is a mechanical one. For someone who has such high regards for family value, I am truly disappointed with his naive and ignorant comment.
1983??? If PETA wants to be taken seriously then they need to make their "issues" more timely!
IT'S ILLEGAL.
And, anyone who has a dog knows Mitt is lying anyway.
Wow, That is all the dirt the Boston Globe can dig up?? A dog story from 1983?? and it makes the CNN headlines on the web. Romney has my vote. Maybe the Boston Globe should concentrate on the dirt of the other candidates. Some good stuff there.
If Mitt's kids liked playing on the highway, would he let them do that too?
(OK, he probably would....)
This guy is a genious! Just another example of his innovation and creativity. Why haven't all Americans been doing this? I believe it is completely acceptable. That's where the family dog belongs. Does PETA let the family dog eat at the dinner table? That's where the kids eat?
It’s hilarious that liberals care more about the welfare of animals than aborted human lives..
Posted By Joe, Millville, NJ : June 29, 2007 2:54 pm
--
Hey, you're the ones who killed 600,000 in the Middle East (so far).
Oh come on, how may times have you seen a dog riding in the back of a pickup truck with know protection at all. I have know of accidents happening where the dog was leaning over the back bumper and was thrown out and badly hurt. Find some other pour candidate to hurass.
I do not like Mitt Romney or PETA. But I must be missing something. If the dog likes it, who cares? No, I would not put my kid up there, but I wouldn't let my kid sleep in a doghouse or eat Pedigree Crunchy or chew on a pig's ear, because my kid is not a dog!
Too bad, now a lot of folks will vote for him just because PETA hates him, and he really is an idiot. Maybe the story was leaked by his campaign manager.
"My dog likes fresh air."
"He scrambled up there every time."
Know what? Dogs also like to roll in poop, and will stick their heads waaaaay out the windows of fast-moving cars. They don't understand the dangers of technology. That's what their master's are supposed to protect them from when they TAKE CARE of their pets.
Frickin' idiot.
I need to correct one thing I said –
at least the dog wasn't rolling around in the back of a truck....
Lets strap Romney to the roof of a car and see how he likes it!
That is more humane that letting one ride in the bed of a pickup truck untethered; allowing the dog to fall or be thrown out onto the highway and hit by an oncoming vehicle, or by the person following behind, which happens daily.
I am neither for or against Mr.Romney's politically, but do think it unfair to persecute him for this action.
Yeah here's one. I married a therapist who says that anyone that can do this to a dog can do it to a human. Meaning – He doesn't mind seeing people or animals suffer because he has no respect for life, animal or human. He only cares about himself and that dumb hairdo. It's 2007 buddy take care of that gray-top.
So what about the millions of people that drive around with their dog running around in the back of their pickup truck and no protection whatsoever? Get real. Granted, traveling with your dog strapped to the roof in a carrier is probably not the best idea, but at the least this guy had his dog in protected crate of sorts.
The way a person treats their pets, can be a pretty good indicator of how they look @ all life in general. The life of a dog, which was created by God should be respected and treated with dignity.
Maybe Mitt will figure this out someday.
Amazing. Romney endangers his animal's life in a, I have to admit, bizarre fashion, and all people can do is complain about PETA. Fine. They are a radical organization, and much of what they do and say is questionable.
Ignore that and focus on the fact that a grown man strapped his pet to the roof of a car. First, who comes up with an idea like that? And second, do you want that someone leading the country? I don't. I doubt there could ever be a statistical correlation between the strapping of live animals to one's car and being the leader of the free world, but I would not trust the judgement or the mental workings of someone who had. I certainly would not want him able to send the military into foreign countries based on questionable intelligence, or be able to call up and order a nuke dropped on someone. Such a silly article, yet such a great glimpse at Romney. And a scary one.
Hmm Just what the country needs... Another Compassionate Conservative.
What a Joke.
This changes my whole view of the 2008 election, wow! But really, this doesn't even matter and won't effect his Presidential run. I mean it happened a quarter of a century ago!
What is wrong with all of you people?
Are you fans of dog-fighting too?
If it's such a non-issue, why is Romni even responding? Because any normal, thinking, caring person would not even consider traveling with their dog on the roof of the car! If someone does something that stupid, I don't want them in the White House. Of course, i don't want Bush there either.
PETA IS STUPID. END OF STORY.
PETA should be banned from the earth, their arguments are stupid and their reasoning ignorant, all you PETA lovers are just looking for attention and a reason to exist, animals were put on this planet to serve man and as mans friend, we did bare them from our mothers, they are not people and should not be treated as or better than people, so please, PETA members, email me explain to me why you are all some of the most intolerable people on the planet, maybe we should throw paint on you for being stupid and annoying.
Now I definitely have never been a fan of PETA. And I am the biggest dog lover ever. I like to say "Mitt, what are you thinking!" But I won't. Only because I don't think you did anything wrong. This was pulled from 20 years ago. I assume the dog we speak of has passed away. And I also assume that you were careful that the crate was fully secured to the vehicle. What is PETA's problem. This is BY FAR the most biggest waste of time yet.If PETA needs something to do they can come to my house and save the Woodpecker that works on my eaves looking for bees that no longer live inside there. I will gladly oblige them at 430am!!!
I bet if the US passed a law similar to South Korea that most of these posts would dissapear! We need to do something like that to get incoherent babble from people off the web, even if it is stuff that i post! Anyone else remember Bill Clinton sleeping around with everyone and yet we still elected him... what's worse?
Woof, my name is Sammy (alias). In recent years, I have worked for the FBI's Animal Division, sniffing for bombs and explosives. I don't mind the work, but if I had a choice between sniffing for bombs or riding on a car top, I'm taking the car top. It's much safer. My dog friends are getting a big kick out of this particular story concerning your fellow human, Romney. After we trained you to walk behind us and pick up our poop, we knew we could get you to do pretty much anything we wanted, but now it is bordering on the asburd. Especially those PETA people. They DO NOT speak for me. We think it would be best if you drop this and move on. Well, headed into the woods to chew on some little creature I my happen on and I hope this is over when I get back.
Well he's got the TYPICAL MENTALITY of a STUPID POLITICIAN is all I can say! MORON!!!!
I am not taking either side on this matter. It is ridiculous that PETA is attacking Romney based on such an old and trivial matter. But at the same time, Romney defending his actions by saying the dog climbed up there on its own is just silly; my son likes to climb into the bed of my pickup, but I don't let him ride back there! How about some articles regarding the candidates stance on contemporary issues that actually have bearing on our society!
Anyone that straps their do to the roof of their care is someone that would NEVER get my vote. It really shows how much he thinks of the family pet.
1983???? Give me a break!!!! That was 24 year ago!!!! This is EXACTLY why I HATE political campaigns. Why does there have to be so much mud slinging, name calling, etc. Why can't each of the candidates focus on their campaign issues and STOP trying to point fingers at their opponents. Just focus on your campaign promises and do your best to keep those campaign promises if you're elected!
Besides, how are we to judge what is cruel to the dog. Maybe from a safety standpoint, it was not wise, but then again, WE CANNOT INTERVIEW THE DOG. Maybe the dog absolutely loved it, or maybe the dog hated it.. we'll never know all the facts so we pass judgement on a man anyway... that's pathetic
The only thing this article makes me ponder is: what is CNN paying it's beat reporters? If the dem's are going to beat this guy, you better come up with something meaningful. This is so petty, it does more to damage CNN than Romney.
Please have someone from PETA interview the dog and let's hear what he or she has to say that way we will know for sure!! Also is Ingrid (ignorant) Kirkland comparing a human child too a dog?? If so then we know where the problem is Houston!
I don't care in the least for Mit Romney, and I don't condone his carrying a dog on top of a car, but seriously folks you people need to give your head a shake. It took place in 1983–almost 25 years ago!
To borrow a line from my 12 year old son, "Get a life!"
So Brian "would gladly strap someone from PETA on the roof of my car for a 5 hour trip." No wonder the country has gotten so divisive. People say stupid crap like this all of the time and it demonstrates a complete lack of respect for other people. Undoubtedly he's be incapable of taking decent care of a dog.
And by the way, having your dogs ride in the back of a pick-up truck is fine until you get into an accident, at which time your pets will not only be road kill, but their flying carcasses can kill the people in the car behind you. Still think it's a fun idea for the dogs?
Why are people making such a big deal about it at this time, it's not going to change a thing. Yeah it was 20 some years ago when life was different. So he had his dog ride on the top, he isn't the first to do this and I've seen plenty in my days traveling. It is seen under today's standards as irresponsible and cruel but that wasn't the case back then. He cared enough to even make the dog a windshield, that is if there was one, much unlike what some people today do. Even so a dog is an animal, yes a loved one in the family but nevertheless an animal that is quite often put down for just being old. It's not like there are reports of him doing this kind of thing since the 1980s so maybe he wised up who knows but PETA is being pathetically desperate to think that bringing this up now will change what happened. History may repeat itself but time goes in a straight line so get over it people you can't change it. This has no relevance period.
I'd just like to throw out a couple points that popped into my head while reading all of these posts (which was a waste of my time, but I was bored). Please keep in mind this has nothing to do with WHO did it, I would say this if it was Hilary or Mitt, no diff.
1) Dogs are important, I love mine and would treat it NEARLY as good as I would a child.
2) A windshield was built for it, thus it was essentially like riding in a jeep with the soft top down (meaning open on all sides except the front). Should we stop people from doing that?
3) Riding in that rack is SAFER than in the bed of a pickup truck...he can't jump out of the crate (and YES, it is a CRATE!).
4) When you see people who have lost their luggage on the side of the road it's because their morons, I think he probably put a little more time into tying the crate down than he did the family socks.
5) If it's so callous why did he take the time to build a custom crate w/ a windshield?
6) How much room would the dog have had to sit, move around, stand up, etc in the middle of a crowded station wagon? It would have been relegated to the floor at best!
Let it go, people...if you're so upset, then write him a letter stating your opinions CALMLY AND COHERENTLY. Calling him an idiot is pointless...do you think he's reading these posts to see what you think about him?
Now, I'm going to go shoot some deer out of season from my pickup truck cab on my way to the rodeo
that was a joke, people
Sounds like Romney is a hard-headed, self-indulgent, stubborn jerk, not unlike the present president. Who needs another one in the White House. Not my idea of a good person. Don't care who he is or how much money he has. That's all he cares about, it seems....again, not unlike the ones we have already in the White House
This society is petty. When you call someone an animal it is a derogatory term. Yet animals seem to have more importance sometimes than humans. The crimes against animals sometimes carry stiffer penlaties than crimes against humans. So why is everybody getting all aroused over an incident that happened over 20 years ago???
If the dog always climed up there, then perhaps Mr. Romney just provided a safer way for the dog to do it.
It's just an animal people, it's not like he strapped grandma on top of his car, oh wait, that's the Beverly Hillbillies...but that was "funny" right?
The boston globe didn't treat the dog story as "dirt" - it was a small part of a weeklong series about mitt's rise. The story came across as though no one seemed to think that there was anything with strapping a dog to a roof and letting it crap all over your car while you drive for 12 hours. so it's not like PETA "dug" this story up - the boston globe had it as part of a section that talked about his "emotion-free crisis management" while being a "family man."
Yeah, PETA may be over-the-top in some instances, but what kind of idiot makes his dog take an east-coast trek on the roof of a car? Sounds almost as much fun as the dog from National Lampoon's Family Vacation had.
How does he know he likes it up there. Poor dog has to travel in open air baggage because he has too many kids and there is no room for his family pet. Buy a bigger car.
I am outraged at the stupidity and rationization of this individual. My other thought, you must not care much about your animal at all to do something that stupid. No sane explaination could provide any solid reasoning. You were very wrong to do that.
I bet if we let the dogs vote on it, they'd all be for riding on the back of our pickups with their heads and tongues blowing in the wind. HAS ANYONE ELSE EVER NOTICED THAT?
Why is this an issue. Hasn't anybody ever seen a dog scramble to stick its head out the window of a moving car?? As long as he was protected from the full force of the wind and was securely strapped down, why should anyone care?? I'm sure the dog LOVED it!!
You can judge a person's character by the way they treat children and animals, and Mitt was just eliminated from my list of potential people to vote for. By the way, what kind of a name is Mitt? Maybe it's short for Mittens, and his family really wanted a cat!
I love the posts from the droolers who say, "Dang, I was undecided about who to vote for but now that PETA has attacked poor ole Mitt, I'm gonna vote fer him!"
What great logic. No wonder we get presidents like the current one.
I myself would rather ride in a crate on top of a car roof than ride a car with Mitt Romney.
who cares about his dog, and further who cares what he did in 1983, for crying out loud? The man's a loon anyway!
I’m sorry but this is ridiculous on PETA's part, I mean come on their complaining about something that happened 24 years ago to a dog that is long gone. These originations really need to grow up and find legitimate things to complain about!
Even though Romney's actions were wrong, this issue and the article are antiquated and irrelevant. We [the media] need to focus more on informing voters rather than on entertaining them. 24 year old stories that have no bearing on an individual's ability to govern contribute to our society's ignorance, which is remarkably demonstrated in this list of comments. I am quite fearful of people who make voting decisions based on ruffling PETA's feathers (or ruffling the NRA to get the other side of the spectrum). It's no wonder politicians do not fear accountability and constantly spew double-speak – they have nothing to fear from an ignorant society.
I'm sorry...domesticated animals can "just run away" and survive in the wild? Why does it take so long for zoos to return ACTUAL wildlife to the wild?
Moron.
OK, PETA officially has too much time on it's hands. I personally think they come up with these trivial objections just to get their name on CNN.
For those of you with your panties in a wad over this, I don't recall anything saying that the dog's carrier was facing into the wind...and as someone else said, there is no way a station wagon is going to travel for 12 hours without stopping to fuel up.
In regard to dogs riding in the backs of trucks, it has only been in recent years that laws mandating tie-downs or crates have come into existence. I'm sure that would not have been the case 24 years ago.
And for the religious bigot who has issues with a Mormon being elected to the Presidency - I will vote for whomever I choose, regardless of their faith - I'm going to vote for the candidate who best represents my views. I seem to recall that some people had kittens over John F Kennedy being Roman Catholic - but he was still voted into office.
I'm not going to judge Romney by his actions 24 years ago. People didn't seem to hold the Shrub's own history of alcoholism against him during his own presidential run.
And as far as PETA is concerned, you may wish to take a look at their own history. You can find information on this "caring" group at http://www.petakillsanimals.com/
You should NEVER strap an animal to a moving car. What do you think would happen if you had an accident & your "pet" went flying?!! Shame on you.
What are you teaching your children? It's OK not to care about the wellfare of their pets, God forbid they have any more.
I dislike this candidates downplay and condescention of PETA as over reactionary. Dogs that are unproperly restrained in the back of vehicles, on top etc... die every year. I have never heard of a "rooftop carrier". They are not made specific to roof tops to the best of my knowledge (I have 2 dogs). If he, and its obvious he doesnt, care about the dog, what about the safety of the other drivers. Such a contraption could, most likely come loose on the highway and cause a wreck. He will NOT be getting my vote.
PETA is upset about something that happened in 1983? I am as big an animal lover is there is and if the dog liked it, and it was safe, what's the problem. Is there nothing more current for them to complain about?
I planned and I thought I was safe. But they got me again. I thought PETA would never waste my time again, but I was wrong.
This is, of course, overblown, but here we are. My question is this: how the hell does a dog "scramble" up into a dog crate on the top of a big station wagon? Jump on the front hood, climb up the windshield? It must have been a heck of a dog if he could jump up the 5' feet or so from the back side of the car....sounds like he's lying.....
Cruelty to animals........proceeds and accepts cruelty to children and women. "A culture is judged by how it treats it's animls and women and children." Ghandi
This Guy is an Idiot.
We've lost another war, there aren't any jobs, we're w/o healthcare, our public schools are failing us and Social Security is in jeopardy. Who gives a S#@T about something that happened over 3 "Dog Years" ago !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
PETA is juat a waste of time.
He wouldn't have gotten my vote anyway. Wow, the ignorance of some people is not to be believed.
It's funny how a dog that is in a special carrier is considered to be at risk. In the mean time, driving with your dog jumping and blocking visibility while you drive is ok. Once I saw a tiny Chihuahua pancake on I-10. Do you think the little pooch was riding in a carrier on top of the car?
I have a son. He is 10. He loves to ride in the back of his father's pickup. I won't let him. He has crawled on top of the pickup. I am sure he would "love it" to ride up there – if he had a windshield. I won't let him.
Get real people – it is not about if the dog "enjoys it." So many people say their pets are a part of the family, then think – would you put a family member up there if they "enjoyed it?"
I am not a PETA member, but I stand for the SAFETY of animals. Think about it – and be reasonable – PLEASE!
If PETA endorsed Romney I wouldn't endorse him – so there!
While I must agree with many people who posted that PETA needs to find something worthwhile to do,I am absolutly amazed with Americans like myself who have nothing better to do than find ourselves absorbed by this article. There have been 108 comments in a little over an hour and some people have serious opinions. If we want to view this as light relaxing news, that is fine, and something needed during war time, but if we are going to not vote for a president because he straped his dog to the roof 25 years ago, it is time to become educated on what really matters. The way I see it, if all we can find on Romney is something from PETA that happened before I was even born Romney just might be my guy.
Romney broke the law. It's illegal in MA to drive with a dog in the bed of a pickup – or on the outside of any vehicle.
(Not that doing something illegal ever stopped someone from running for office – it's practically a requirement. Nor has it ever stopped people from voting for that candidate).
Plus, it's just really stupid. It's like saying, my 6 mo. old baby really loves the fresh breeze, so I'm going to strap his/her car seat to the roof of my car. I'm not pro-PETA, but he did consciously endanger another living being.
What type of magic car drives for 12 hours without needing to stop for gas?
This "story" is rediculous, and the fact that its on CNN is even moreso.
Never mind the dog….I want a full account of the number of bugs that Mitt uncaringly killed with his automobile on that family vacation. Surely PETA and the animal lovers on this thread would consider this murderous act far more telling of a person’s judgment. Or would that be too hypocritical for you animal-loving car owners who swat flies and slap mosquitoes?
I’m sure CNN will give equal coverage for the time Hillary successfully set a mouse trap or Obama pulled of his shoe and smashed a spider.
The fact of the matter is that regardless of when this happened, it points to someone with little common sense. So what if the dog appeared to like it? My dogs would like to eat a bag of sugar, but I'm not going to let them. And the difference between strapping an animal to the top of a car and placing that animal in a holder in an airplane is that the airplane ride is infinitely safer than the car ride. To those of you who ride around with your animals unsecured, either in your car or the back of your truck, I pray you are never involved in an accident and witness the suffering of your animal.
I have no words that can be printed here to say how cruel I feel this is. Then, say the dog enjoyed it. To teach your children it's OK to treat "dumb animals" this way. Who is dumb here? We're placed here to care for the least of us. Heartless. For shame.
as an owner of an irish setter i completely agree with this mode of transportation!
Someone who violates animal cruelty laws and exercises extremely poor judgment lack proper judgment to be President.
What a waste of space.
This is why politics has become a joke. The media paying attention to stupid quips on the personal lives of politicians.
.
One word: Motorcycles.
3 Words:
People on MOTORCYCLES.
A few more words: Parents with their kids with them on a motorcycle. Legal. It's summer, you see them all the time.
And lastly,
the dog was safer than any person on a motorcycle.
But this has been fun-reading the comments.
btw, thanks to the person who pointed out "motorcycles" in his comment before mine.
And to the moron who has an issue with Mitt being a "mormon", your KKK white sheet and pointy hat are ready for you at the laundromat.
.
You'll want to have them for this weekend's cross burning at that Jewish guy's house. People like you turn my stomach.
Who cares if PETA is after Romney...this doesn't make this idiots action right! Very improper and cruel treatment!
While I find almost everything Mitt Romney does or says hollow and ridiculous, this story certainly does not stand out as one of his greater personal shortcomings. As voters, every citizen should take a very close look at his record in Massachusetts. After 15 minutes, you'll find that he was either ineffective, non-existent, or completely detached from reality. Education suffered from tremendous setbacks during his brief tenure, mental health care funding plummeted, roads and public transportation fell into disrepair violent crime increased, and service fees became a surrogate for increasing taxes. Regardless of your personal political beliefs, it is this kind of record which should give any voter pause in selecting this man as the next POTUS.
Wow. Over 100 comments and not one actually gets to the main problem.
The ENTIRE CONCEPT of strapping a living thing to the roof an automobile with some kind of temporary attachments is simply inconceivable to a person with an ounce of common sense. Forget PETA, Pickup Trucks, your childhood, etc.
If the car was in an accident (or even manuvering to avoid one), his jury-rigged pet carried could come loose and kill or injure the pet or a human. Can you say GIANT LIABILITY?
The entire idea was an is unbelievably stupid. I can't believe anyone would actually consider doing it for real.
Here's your first clue, do a quick search and find all of the certified and tested vehicle rooftop pet carriers for sale... yeah, though so.
You can lock the comments now. You're welcome.
Wow my hat's off to you people. You've turned an non-issue into oh wait it's still a NON-ISSUE!! This thing is being blown out of proportion turning the presidential race into an even bigger popularity contest than it already is. Don't you think there are a few more pressing matters that we should be looking into rather than how someone transported their pet 24 years ago. Why are we listening to a second-rate motivational group anyways? I thinks it's time we just said PETA we care but we don't care so shut up. Talk to the people who are doing it and leave the rest of us out.
This country is going downhill if we see a headline like, "Deplorable Pet Transportation Leaves Presidency In Question." and you know somewhere there will be something along those lines. Hmm pet, presidency , pet, presidency... well besides the 'P' I really don't see the connection so am I missing the boat or is everyone else just flailing around in the water acting like they are in a boat.
"I hate PETA and I hate my wife, who is a PETA member. PETA could actually do good if they did not make a big stink out of non-issues like this one. I’m going to KFC today just to spite these people."
Wow. Just wow.
While not a fan of PETA, his action clearly places the dog in harm's way. A short stop could send the animal flying into the front of his "cage" and could even detach the cage from the vehicle. He should get a summons.
This story isn't about PETA folks. This is about a man who wants to run this country - look at how he runs his family vacations. PETA didn't bring up this story, Mitsy offered this info up himself to a reporter. Certainly PETA has a right to comment on it. As would the SPCA or, gee, anyone who has an opinion about it.
And I'm sorry, having the dog camped out on top of a vehicle on a 20+ hour trip is FAR different from a dog hanging out in the back of a pick-up truck. Seriously, do you really think that's the same? How safe would you feel on top of a vehicle for 5 miles at 65 MPH vs. in the back of a pick up. Most sane people would opt for the back of the truck.
It was cruel. It shows a lack of good judgment and reasonableness. And it shows a lack of intelligence to volunteer this information to a reported 20 years later.
Hey, you’re the ones who killed 600,000 in the Middle East (so far).
- Mike, Chicago
Haven't heard of anyone killing 600,000 dogs or fetus' in the ME. What are you talking about??
I would love to have that design – my dog loves to smell the world.
Did PETA complain about Eddie Murphy transporting an animal on the roof during the movie Dr. Doolittle? My dog still likes to put his head out the window when we drive.
PETA just wants some media attention and they found a forum to finally get some attention from our other favorite organization, ACLU.
Next we'll hear that they want to have the Discovery Channel cancel Deadliest Catch because they are capturing Lobsters in traps. Come to think about it, do you have to be a vegetarian to work for PETA?
Romney's reasoning of "my dog enjoyed it so I not only let him do it, but encouraged it" is CRAZY. By that same logic, I wish I'd Mitt as my dad when I was a teenager and discovered sex. I enjoyed it, but my parents did everything in their power to discourage it (and did so successfull). Maybe Mitt would have put me on the Pill and built a beautiful bed for my boyfriend and me.
For Christ's sake who cares, it’s a dog. These creatures were bread to be guards, hunters and work animals. Any animal we domesticate is lucky enough it gets feed and watered with out having to find it for its self. Further more it his dog, he can do whatever he wants with it. Strap it on the roof or give it a kick when he gets home. You don't clean up its crap or feed it, he does. Besides it was in 1983, the dog is dead now anyway.
unvarished? You bet. If you knew everything you said was being recorded you would choose your words very carefully. Now, if someone can record Hillary without her knowing it, that would be unvarished.
Good grief. People ride in convertibles with the wind in their hair. Why is it so hard to believe that a dog would enjoy it?
Yeah, we killed 600,000 in the middle east after the liberal flip floppers voted for it..
How is this inhumane? It's not dangerous, the carrier was securely strapped to the car. He put up a windscreen so he wasn't getting a full blast of air. It's not like he tied the dog up there by its paws. And you people who imply that because he would do this to a dog, then he would do it to a human, you people are insane. First off, it's not a bad thing he did, he wasn't harming the dog. Second, it's a @&%^ing dog, not a person. I think this is a rather genius mode for dog transport.
If you agree with PETA on this matter, you shouldn't be allowed to vote.
I expect this type of inconsequential garbage from PETA...
but for this to be a front page headline on CNN for 2 days in a row is ridiculous! CNN, please focus on meaningful issues instead of searching for mud to sling!
We have an Irish Setter who we one time left in the car with the sunroof open while we ran inside to retrieve something.
When I came back out, our goofy dog was sitting on the roof of the car, looking at us. She is also fond of having her head out the window at all times, a trait almost universally embraced by all canines. While I am not a Romney supporter, I absolutely believe that the dog loved it up there, and as long as he had a wind shield I think he probably loved nothing more.
WITH EVERYTHING GOING ON IN THE WORLD TODAY THIS MAKES THE HEADLINES?
I vote for strapping Romney to the roof of his car and riding around for 12 hours in all kinds of weather. Maybe it will clean out his sinuses and brains. Or maybe he could strap his kids up there! He's an idiot.
While the whole abuse side of the dog story is undoubtedly sickening, there is another side that is just as troubling. This whole anecdote is so that the Boston Globe can fawn over him and praise him for "emotion-free crisis management", but here is what I see:
1.) Romney comes up with a plan. Anyone with half a brain should be able to see that this is a BAD PLAN.
2.) Plan takes a dump, (literally).
3.) Romney cleans up the immediate mess a little and forges on, undeterred, with the SAME BAD PLAN.
Does this sound familiar? Haven’t we had enough of the “stay the course” mentality? Additionally, should we praise him for managing a crisis that was created by his own stupidity? Rather than managing a crisis, wouldn’t it be preferable to engage in a little forethought and prevent the crisis from arising in the first place?
Romney is an idiot and will never get my vote. As rich as he is why didn't he think of spending some money to do something safer for his dog like paying someone to take care of it. Anyone who would tie their dog to the roof of their car is a straight up IDIOT. We already have 2 IDIOTS that are running the country and they shoot quails.....don't they......?????
PLEASE!! Do we need to worry about a 1980s family vacation!! PETA, GET A LIFE!! We have so many abused children and elderly adults in our society that need our attention. Instead of worrying about what happened to a dog (who apparently enjoyed the experience), perhaps you should check on other more current issues.
I don't know how anyone can be concerned about this, or even consider for a moment that it deserves any level of news reporting. I thought the 24×7 coverage of Paris Hilton was bad enough, but this arguing about whether or not some family dog - no doubt long since dead of old age - enjoyed riding on a car roof... it's bizarre.
What exactly are we supposed to worry about here? That Mitt Romney may decide to strap some dogs on top of Air Force One?? And we, the voters of the USA, are supposed to decide elections based on this kind of information???
What a non-issue this is! He built a wind shield to protect the dog from the wind, for heaven's sake! Sounds like someone from PETA didn't get the whole story before being critical. Next thing you know they're going to come out against people allowing their dogs to stick their heads out of car windows. If this is the worst thing anybody can drudge up on Romney, elect this guy president...quick!
PETA's stink over this is a ringing endorsement for Romney
Anyone who can't see the difference between riding for an hour in the back of a pickup in a rural area (which is still hazardous to your pet), compared to riding on the top of a car for 12 hours on a highway ought to try it sometime. There's a reason people don't travel that way, no matter how ignorant.
Romney should have accepted responsibility for an action he would not repeat today. But apparently, and sadly for his pets, it sounds as if he'd do it again and again – only with the dog in diapers.
I hope to see him on the top of his SUV sometime soon. Why deny himself such pleasure?
Is he psychic? How does he know what the dog likes? Very strange comment.
These comments make me wonder: If PETA wasn't referenced in this article as objecting would you still think it was an OK thing to do? Would you feel differently if it was the Humane Society objecting? How about the local animal control officer?
Just look at it objectively and think what it would be like for any living thing to be in a box moving really fast with tons of wind noise, truck noises, and the vibrations of the moving car. You are up there alone without your people to reassure you that it is ok. If you know dogs you can imagine how hard that would be.
Strikes me as being a terrifying experience and a pretty insensitive thing for a pet owner to do. And it tells me a lot about the candidate.
Thumbs down.
My dog rides on top of the car with no bungees, no container, and no seat belt. The only time he wants to ride in the bed of the truck is in december when he is wet and its freezing cold outside. Other than that he jumps up on top of the car and pulls a michael j fox teen wolf truck surf. Dogs are stupid they enjoy things that people consider dangerous.
PETA why don't you try to protect children as well as you do animals. I am a dog lover but come on...this is ridiculous and yes I am a democrat.
This does seem pretty odd; I don't know many families that tie their dogs to the roof of their car. But then again what does this have to do with anything? Is cnn really worried about the relations of a top tier canidate and his dog? How about giving the second tier canidates some more coverage versus worrying about a man and his dog.
“If you wouldn’t strap your child to the roof of your car, you have no business doing that to the family dog,”
That is a humilating comparison...children should NEVER be compare to animals! Only a moron would do such a thing!
The people commenting pro-Romney on this one have got to be kidding. This was cruel and abusive behavior by a thoughtless man, who also threw in his 1 of 2 times going hunting to score with the NRA. What a jerk.
I am disgusted. He should be fined and arrested for animal cruelty. How revolting.
This seems like an excellent time for Republican Presidential Candidate Romney ™ to put his foot down against radical, left-wing special interest groups. Spin away.
PETA doesn't like Romney.
Good.
That means I still consider himself a possible candidate for my vote.
Anyone PETA supports I oppose.
"... transported his dog in a ROOFTOP carrier..."
If it is a ROOFTOP carrier, then where else would it be but on the roof!
"If you wouldn’t strap your child to the roof of your car ..."
Since I have done this, then it is ok for the dog too?
If the dog enjoys it so much, why did he release his bowels all over the roof and windows of the automobile? "he likes fresh air" honestly now... *rolls eyes*
This scenario must give pause as to who (Romney vs his dog.) has more common sense. If,as he states, the dog lives "fresh air" (@ hwy speeds?) wel...my 3 dogs would enjoy running loose accross the st. to chase Coyotes, Squirrels etc...
I do not let them do everything they want. They have all the affection,water, food, walks et al & are quite happy but, being dogs, it is my job to protect them from harm; I know what is hazardous to their health (i.e.running in front of cars.)I belive this qualifies for a "Darwin award" then again, I am a member of (the) well-known radicals of the Humane Society & ASPCA who feels that those who cannot competently care for a companion animal should desist acquiring any.
My dog enjoys chewing on electrical cords, still I as a human have the good sense to know it is not good for the dog, and I do not let him do it. Dear Mr. Romney, please act like a humane human and admit you used poor judgement with your family pet.
Just to inform the undeducated mass that is these posts... there is no way you can drive 12 hours non stop... think about it....
I also love the comments saying he lacks character, yet make fun of his name and his religion. If that doesn't spell hypocracy, then I don't know what does...
Last but not least, I bet the dog enjoyed riding up there... WE WILL NEVER KNOW! So don't judge someone that was raised in a generation where seat belts were merely objects in a car and not safety measures!
I am a 25 year old, and I remember mom and dad telling me stories about how they never wore seat belts as children in the 1950s and 1960s. I doubt you will call them and my grandparents reckless and stupid and inhumane.
BACK OFF THE MAN...
I strap my child in a car seat. Is that the mode of transport Ms. Newkirk is suggesting for Irish Setters?
TO THE PEOPLE SAYING IT'S HORRIBLE WHAT HE DID: please state one thing you did 20 years ago that may seem objectionable...
I,for one, tried weed one time. So what... we elected a president that couldn't keep it in his pants. Who are you to judge Romney...
I don't know what the problem is. My stepfather who absolutely loved his dog, probably as much as us kids drove from North Carolina to Texas with the dog in a carrier strapped to the top of the car. This was in July 1985 People need to focus on real matters at hand, not things that happened 20 years ago with no bearing today. How many kids rode in the front seat with out seatbelts 20 years ago or how many parents let their kids sit in their laps to learn how to drive at 10 years old? Answer: majority of the population where I'm from.
Honestly, who here is the same as they were 20 years ago? All these people who want to bash others for things that happened that long ago obviously have personal issues not related.
Politics sure are RUFF!
Just an observation...to all the people saying "I'm sure the dog loved it", the dog did soil itself.
If you know anything at all about dogs, they will do whatever is in their power NOT to soil where they eat or sleep. The fact that this actually happened means that either 1) the dog was terrified, 2) the dog was sick, or 3) the idiot didn't make nearly enough stops. Any way you slice it, the dog clearly didn't enjoy itself and should not have been traveling in such a manner. It's unbelievable.
Hope he doesn't treat the wounded & outsourced American middle class this way!
And did he get an approval from the Mormon High Command to do this to the Pooche?
A lot of questions about this guy....
He is an idiot! Poor dog.
Romney apologists can try to downplay this all they want.
Bottomline this is just NUTS. Who would do such a crazy thing???
I've done A LOT of stupid things in my life as well. Though this has to be one of dumbest things I ever heard someone do...period.
What was he thinking...Boston to Ontario – Canada on the roof???
I'll bet his favorite movie is National Lampoon's "Vacation".
PETA is ridiculous! The statement could have been valid if stated as "if you wouldn't do (blank) to the dog, you shouldn't do (same blank) to the child" – not the other way around! I keep my dog in the backyard, but I sure wouldn't keep a child outside!. Dumb PETA. But what else can be expected of that outfit... And another thing – this episode happened TWENTY-FOUR YEARS AGO. Dear PETA – please go sit quietly together in a circle and tell each other how good and important your cause is, and leave the rest of America alone!
PETA. Yeah...these are the people whose members fraudulently obtain animals by claiming they will find a home for them, euthanizing them, and dumping the carcasses in area dumpsters, then defend the practice. PETA has no credibility concerning anything to do with "ethical" treatment of animals.
The dog didn't scramble up there because he liked it, he scrambled up there because you wanted him too and he wanted to please you. Did he ride up there in the rain too?
Normally I'm skeptical of PETA, but in this case, I'm more horrified of the thought of someone actually strapping a dog carrier with a dog in it to the roof of their car. Talk about a lack of judgment.
I've always kept mine in the trunk...Only had one die in 40 years...
Next time someone straps me to the roof of a car against my free will, I'll be certain to crap all over the place and then say how much I loved it! The difference is, I can speak for myself, that dog cant, and screw you PETA haters, are you honestly that upset that humans care more about animals that cant speak for themselves? We can speak for ourselves, so we have no excuse when we pull this kind of stupid crap. I'm so glad you all support Mitt on this. Strap your kid to the roof of your car, Vote for Mr. No-Respect-for-Life-unless-it-benefits-him-financially for President in '08!! Whoo! There should be a law that says if you have EVER treated an animal with indignity in your life, your kids should be taken away from you because you obviously couldnt care less who/what lives or dies as long as you get your 15 minutes at the end of the day. Here's your 15 minutes Romney. Enjoy it. Those who actually respect life, big, small, furry or hairless, will not be voting for you.
Perfect response by Romney, PETA....just makes me laugh.
Just one question: does Mitt consider quail to be varmint?
Romney is comparing his strapping his dog to the roof to the 1983 Chevy Chase movie. He DID NOT strap his dog to roof 24 years ago. He did it recently and tried to laugh it off as a joke. He is a disgrace. So, please, people, read the article first before talking about how people dug up dirt from two decades ago okay?
I also wouldn't expect my dog to catch a frisbee with his teeth. Does that make me hate animals and treat them cruelly because I play fetch with them?
I wish that people would stop playing the "if I had to choose between my child and my dog" ticket. That isn't the point. The whole story isn't here. Apparently the dog lost control of his bowels during the trip due to stress. Also, a 'makeshift kennel' isn't necessarily safe. I've met Ingrid Newkirk- I'm not a member of PETA- and she is a dedicated, quiet, non-obnoxious person who cares about animals- and she said nothing 'outrageous' in this article- If I saw anyone traveling down the highway with their dog on the roof, I would call the state patrol. I wouldn't have a conversation with myself about it being only a dog, and not a child. Hello.
Depending on the type of container, it is no different than transporting your pet in the bed of your pick up truck.
The do "likes fresh air ??? " He talks too....you mean the dog likes to accompany the family at all costs...that is the way family dogs are....what a horrid thing to do to a loyal pet !!!
Someone should make a cage for this manand travel him on the roof of the car to see how he likes it !!!!!
If he is elected, I bet you that his way of dealing with the deficit is to tie it on the roof of his car, and drive into the sunset....hoping it may blow off, and just go away!!
I think this is just terrible. I am an animal lover and I cannot cast my vote for someone who would do something like this. Mr. Romney, you have just lost a vote. Please, in the future, think about kindness to animals; this is heartbreaking to me.
PETA... JUST HUSH! ALSO TELL YOUR FOLLOWERS STOP WEARING LEATHER PRODUCTS {PRACTICE WHAT YOU PREACH}
This happened in what year? 1983?
Is the said dog even alive?
... What about that war ... and stuff?
Mr. Romney,
Don't justify your barbaric action by saying your dog liked fresh air. How insensitive and ignorant!
I read the Globe article. Including the part where the dog craps all over himself, the carrier and the rear window might put the whole "the dog likes it up there" line in better context. The dog was obviously terrified.
Fox just reported that Edwards ate a bug when he was a child. Are we going to put up with this...or fight back. Who's with me!!!
WOW...this jerk just lost my vote and I am a stauch Republican....What a horrid mean thing to do to a poor innocent loyal dog !! Better he should put himself up on the roof and risk all the inherant dangers ...This cruel thoughtless man for President ??? OMG no !!!!!
P.S. I HATE PETA BUT THIS IS A HORRIBLE TRUTH AND I FOR ONE AM GLAD THEY HAVE EXPOSED THIS TRUTH.
I love this story. It showcases how impotent and counter-productive the MSM have become while at the same time letting everyone see how liberals let irrationality and emotion trump logic. The comments section for this story is a wonderful example of this.
I have a homework assignment for you people who are stumbling to compare the dog's insistance on getting on top of the car during road trips and enjoying it with the dog "not knowing whats good for it, he pooped on the car its so terrified romney doesnt like his dog bla blah etc"... look up "classical conditioning." The Fact that this is the only thing to ever come close to a 'scandal' for Romney is really a shining recognition of how squeaky clean his image and personal life is.
A pet will never be as equal as my children, never, ever, ever....no comparison....Anyways, dogs love hanging their heads out the window the entire ride or getting in the back of the truck! Go Romney
let's put romney on the roof of the car and drive him all over the state!!!!
PETA? What a bunch of mixed up wacko's. What difference is there between the back of a pick-up or the roof of the family car? BTW I like to eat hamburgers and chicken strips.
I can't stand these animal organizations that are constantly comparing animals to children. Yes, I understand that people love their pets like they would children, but to compare putting a dog in a crate up on the roof of a car to strapping your child in like that? They are nuts. I think they do more harm than good for animals.
About 25 -30 years ago, children didn't have to be in a car seat and sat in the front seat with no seat belt. Mom put her arm across me, when coming to a stop. My favorite was laying in the back window!
PETA is right, no one I know would find what he did to the family pet acceptable.
He sounds like Chevy Chase in National Lampoon's Summer vacation. Its only funny in the movies.
Mitt's a mutt. The dog is a non story. Is Mitt fit to run the country? Maybe only slightly more qualified than GW Bush. But then, so was Mitt's Irish Setter.
This is such a planted story. If you actually read into it, Romney comes off looking like this great innovative family man (he actually put a windshield on the doggie carrier) who drives around in a wood paneled station wagon ( the average Joe with his big American family) on family vacations. All of this is a direct rebuttal of the argument that he is a heartless business man who earned his fortune by directing companies that he purchased to layoff workers to enrich shareholders. Not that Romney is such a bad guy or would make such a bad president, but are we really falling for this kind of "news."
if he can't treat a dog in a humane manner, how can he possibly think that anyone who has ever cared for any animal – and there are millions – would ever trust him to lead our country?
Your dog actually got up on the roof
and into the carrier by himself?
How the heck does the dog get up on the
roof.
Mitt Romney's credibility seems questionable to me................
This is just part of a long story about his family, about their trials and successes, marriages and deaths. I cannot understand the criticism about this dog's crate surrounded of course by wind shield and luggages during their trip in 1983! Please read the whole entire story of this marvellous family published by Boston Globe or follow this link http://www.sltrib.com/ci_6251541?source=rss
Posted By Carl, Dallas,TX : June 29, 2007 5:20 pm
I bet you also voted for an imbecile for prez twice... in 2000 and 2004. An imbecile who has single handedly destroyed our credibility as a country. Mitt would do no better. I wonder though if he would possibly give a ride on the top of his car to our resident chimp?
PETA’s position that Romney shouldn’t have done this to an animal because he wouldn’t do it to his child is absurd. We do many things to dogs that we wouldn’t do to our own children: we put pets on leashes, lock them in cages, let them eat off the floor, store them under the belly of a plane, neuter & spade them and even allow them to relieve themselves in public. Putting an animal on top of the family might be a bit more ‘out of the box’ then what most American’s would do, but it’s not way out there.
If we are going to attack this event, then we better be fair and attack others. For example, I'm sure 25 years ago, there are many readers who rode in the back of their parents' car and didn’t even wear a seat belt. If your ride was like mine, you bounced up an down, stuck your head out the window, and were quite unruly. If Romney’s 25-year old violation is held to today’s standards, then we better go after our parents for letting us ride without seat belts. Maybe that’s why this generation is so messed up…it all comes back to the car ride.
I wouldn't have strapped my dog to the top of a car 20 years ago, but I woulda put Romney up there! This dude has got to be the biggest phony I've have ever seen, and this is after 7 years of Geo W. Bush! I can't believe Romney is even close in the Republican race. What a flip-flopper!!!
1983-now they bring it up! PETA, get a life!!
“If you wouldn’t strap your child to the roof of your car, you have no business doing that to the family dog,” Ingrid Newkirk, president of PETA said in a statement. “I don’t know who would find that acceptable.”
You have to be a real idiot to make a comparison between the way people treat their children vs the way pets are treated. I'm having a very difficult time coming up with one situation where my pets and children would be treated equally.
You have got to be kidding. Who cares what happened in 1983? I don't see a problem with his dog being in a carrier on the top of his car. Give me a break. Obviously, somebody has too much time on there hands to dig this long to find this. Is this all you found?
I think Mitt should ride in a carrier on top of the car!
The original article states that this story was released to demonstrate Romney's "coolness under trying circumstances."
I'm sorry, but can somebody please explain to me how a family roadtrip constitutes "trying circumstances"?
hmmmm does the boston globe have it out for romney. i mean seriously, what was teh date on this 1980 something. how in the world did they even get this information. what are they wasting their resources on? is this news?
“If you wouldn’t strap your child to the roof of your car, you have no business doing that to the family dog,”
That is a humilating comparison…children should NEVER be compare to animals! Only a moron would do such a thing!
– Good point! I like dogs way better than children!! Strap your kids to the roof all you want...but you better not let me catch you putting your dog up there!!
Ugh. Groan... (Climbing up on my soapbox) Firstly, if you're gonna run for political office remember, almost everything will come back to haunt, especially the stupid, bad, dishonest, law convictions, etc. So, think before you do something, ahead of time. Romney putting his dog in an improvised carrier on the roof a car was cruel, uncaring, and dangerous for the dog. Maybe if he was a little more compassionate and had more common sense he would've done differently. Secondly, regardless of what uninformed people think about PETA, the organization has done a large amount of good in the area of animal rights and awareness. Keep it up. Lastly, I give very little credibility and suppport to someone who believes that Jackson County, Missouri will one day be the center of world government and that after death all unbelievers will serve them, but later become gods and goddesses and have spirit babies.
While not a Mitt supporter; I too must chime in and say, C'MON!!! In 1983, the children were not strapped to the roof of anything because there was plenty of room to sit in the back of the pick-up; YES, it was FUN! We also rode bikes without helmets, and I bet at least some of the PETA women, who were then, young girls, had some of those hideous bunny fur coats. People: times change; so do we.
Who deleted my 1st comment? Dogs like to ride in the back of the truck. If they are in the car, they want to hang their head out the window. Being on top in a carrier is not much different! Also, my children will never, ever be compared to a pet.
Thank you for being honest, human, and real. Good Job!!
Where we live dogs ride on pickup cabs and beds all the time and it is an accepted practice'
Dave in Colorado
I think they should strap Mitt to the top of a car and drive from Bangor to San Diego. Not a chance in hell that his hair would get messed up! What an idiot.
I strongly dislike PETA. That having been said, how can anyone justify Romney keeping his dog in a carrier on the roof of his car for 12 hrs?!! The reports says the dog lost bowel control! Does that not show distress?!!! HORRIBLE!!!!!
The fact that poor Seamus seems to have had "nervous diarrhea" down the car window showed how much he "enjoyed" his roooftop ride. This shows a serious lack of empathy and concern for another living creature, and would lead me to question the depth of Romney's decision-making in other matters, too. To treat the family pet so callously is appalling.
It's funny PETA I love my six animals and have killed wild animals in my younger days but I want a tiger skin! Which I love cats more than any animal next to a horse. But I have deer skins rabbit fur all over my house. So am I bad or good to PETA!
I agree with PETA. It will save pet owners a lot of money. No more having you pets "fixed". After all would you do it to your kids?
An Irish Setter is a 75-85 lb dog! How the hell could he enjoy riding on the top of the roof in an perforated container for hundreds of miles. This really shows what type of logic this man displays. Duh!
I wasn't voting for him before and surely nothing has changed now.
Hahaha, It seems that they really had to dig deep to find something negative, and I'm not so sure aggravating PETA is a bad thing. I've had an Irish Setter, and I completely believe that he would have enjoyed riding on top of the car, had it occured to us to let him. I would rather see a dog in a secured carrier, with protection from the wind and bugs, than standing with both paws in the open window, or in the open bed of a truck, where every pothole throws them off balance. Congrats to him for being innovative and still keeping his dog safe.
Belmont, Massachusetts celebrity canine Seamus Romney enjoyed riding on top of the car? I guess that brown stuff running down the window was a token of the dog's appreciation for his master, Shameless. How much more crap does Willard M. Romney expect us to swallow?
First, I'd like to start off by pointing out that in the early 80's most people didn't wear seatbelts or use baby carseats. But we're talking about a dog here...my dog loves to stick her head out the window for an entire journey! I really doubt that Seamus was miserable–it probably felt just like a ride in a convertible. Mitt is a dog lover and the fact that he brought the family dog on the trip showed that he loved it. When their dog couldn't go on a trip with them Mitt and Ann used to drive their dog an hour away to relatives in the country just so that their dog didn't have to be locked up in a kennel. They certainly had the money to board the dog and yet they took the time to do a 2 hour round trip at the beginning and end of their trip to make sure their dog was in a loving environment. I think that because Mitt is squeeky clean (He really IS...I know him) his opponents are showing their desperation with this supposed dog abuse.
Romney gets dumber and dumber every day. Not that he has a chance in hell of winning the election.
As an aside, Go PETA !!!
I am not a fan of PETA or Romney but I now think even less of him. Most people who have a pet in this country consider them an absolute part of their family (72%) and I do not think any of them would do what this supposed leader did. He was wrong when he put his dog on the roof of his car and he is even more wrong to make light of it. Fortunately i do not believe he will be elected and the irony is that maybe his family dog will get the "last laugh".
"I’m sorry, but can somebody please explain to me how a family roadtrip constitutes “trying circumstances”?"
Have you ever been on a road trip with five or six siblings? The man must be a saint.
Why would anyone admit to this? Did he want this to become the discussion about him over the next several months? Why didn't he just hold his dog up by the ears to pose for the camera? Oh wait, has that been done?
In today's climate, anyone who would admit to such an idiotic thing during the ramp-up to a presidential election shows a serious lack of judgement. For that reason alone, it is clear that this man is a moron who is unqualified to govern.
I find it very difficult to believe that ANY dog would prefer riding on top of a car alone, versus inside the car with their family/owners.
The fact that this blog has nearly 300 posts and the other ones dealing with the war, election, and REAL ISSUES have on average something like 10 makes me really wonder where our collective heads are at...
Let's keep a couple of things in perspective. Even though he's not my first choice for Prez, the fact that PETA went on some 25 year personal witch hunt against the guy and came up this says to me the man doesn't have that much to hide.
Romney is a self made multi millionaire and he did it by building a legit business and had a good record as governor.
I would bet the farm that the facts of the incident have been greatly exaggerated.
I would not say that this report is entirely irrelevant because I think this shows alot about his character. It doesn't matter when it took place. Why or how could someone treat their pet like luggage? Stuffing it into a carrier and then strapping it onto the roof of your vehicle for 12 hours!!! For any amount of time is just wrong....Let alone half a day! Does he not a conscience? If the dog enjoyed it so much why did he urinate and defecate all over himself? How can or why would someone be so neglectful? It sickens me to think that this could've happened more than once. Dogs like most animals feel fear and know when their life may be endanger. So no telling what that poor pooch went through being able to see, hear, and feel the pressure in the carrier going 50, 60 or even 70 mph. It must have been terrifying and not being able to do anything about it. If someone is unable to care properly for an animal....DO NOT GET ONE. How can someone not feel for this defenseless animal? It's just sad.
Is this a joke? Its not like he put his cat in a microwave...and the dog is fine? Hell how do we know the dog didnt quite enjoy the ride that way – better than stuck in a hot crampt car??
The pro-Romney posts here were probably written by his organization. Going after PETA changes the subject but not the crime. Romney should've been Governor of Utah, not Massachusetts. He's a flip flopper and a bad representative of the state of Massachusetts. What he did to his dog is basically what he did to all Massachusetts citizens – he gave everyone the finger. Mitt Romney is not to be trusted. Everyone is supposed to serve King Mitt...please...we WANT the Republican offerings to be Romney, Giuliani, etc. What a rogues gallery!
What an unbelievably stupid thing to do..
But what's even more unbelievable? To try to justify it instead of just saying "that was years ago and I'm older and smarter now".
Moron.
If the dog loved it so much, then why did he have a diarrhea attack all over the top of the car? Sounds like he wasn't having such a great time!
Are you robot-brains NUTS?! It has nothing to do with PETA and EVERYTHING to do with a disgusting and pathetic thing to do to a dog. FOR 12 FREAKING HOURS?! One might marginally shrug it off if he were just transporting the animal a few blocks to the vet or something, but 12 hours? What kind of SICKO travels with a LIVE ANIMAL of ANY kind strapped in a box on the roof of a car? This certainly DOES give some insight into his abilities for office if he thinks something like that is OKAY.
"The dog obviously enjoyed his perch and the ride."
According to the politician defending his actions. The dog was not available for interview. The dog loved it so much that a "brown liquid" was oozing from the carrier. So they stopped and "hosed him off" and then started up the 60 mph wind torture again on the trapped, wet animal. Is it any surprise that the man is pro-torture (by his own enthusiastic admission during the GOP debates) and wants to double the size of Guantanamo?
You people supporting him want a president who will continue the policies that have made people around the world so badly hate us and want to kill us. You people need to be committed. Really.
Regardless of whether or not PETA is completely ethical in all their actions, or whether or not the dog liked going up on his car roof is irrelevant. Reading all the comments I have to say that i am offended that people would joke that since PETA has done, admittedly, unethical things that Romney has earned their vote. That's ridiculous. But the fact that he doesn't acknowledge that his actions may upset some people, and discredits them as silly, along with what the PETA org. in theory should stand for is wrong. God forbid people don't approve of his actions, however "petty" they may be, and he should apologize and recognize why they may indeed be upsetting. 'Divide and conquer' seems to be the method all conservatives have and are continuing to go on with, and in the end it won't work.
Just my humble opinion, but that's a STUPID reason to vote for a candidate.
With kindest regards
This has nothing to do with PETA. This has everything to do with common sense and compassion. It appears Mr. Romney has little of either. I personally wouldn't vote for someone who is cruel to animals, and I certainly wouldn't vote for someone with no common sense or compassion. He sounds like a man Ann Coulter would be fond of!
Trashing PETA as a "radical" organization is beside the point; what about Romney's idiotic response? Or idiotic action (putting doggie on the roof)... let's hope he didn't explode frogs with firecrackers like Bush. Obviously such things are very telling.
this article makes me proud to say im voting for mitt! (and his dog)
The first time I heard this story, I thought for sure this man's Presidential ambitions just came chashing down. I mean, who would be so STUPID and CRUEL to strap your dog to the roof of your car. This is an easy one, this is just plain wrong and anyone with even an ounce of decency will see Romney for the idiot he is.
And then I read some of the comments here, and all I can say now is, may God have mercy on your souls, if you have one left. You people are as sick as Romney.
Those of you who are citing this incident- and PETA's reaction to it- as a compelling reason to cast a vote for Romney... if only someone would cage and strap you to a rooftop to wallow in your own excrement for a 12-hour drive, preferably to some foreign nation where your mental shortcomings can no longer be an embarrassment to this already faltering nation, then we might be alright.
CMB, your stupid comment makes me ashamed to say that I am from the Worcester area. You don't have to be weak or a tree-hugger to love dogs and be suspicious of someone who does not treat them well.
And MW says (june 29, 12:35) "I just want to know what he’s done as Governor of Mass. Is the state worse or better off with him being Governor?"
Well – after claiming to balance the budget without raising taxes (he slashed public edducation and raised fees, which are taxes by another name) he actually left Deval Patrick a $1.5 billion deficit.
After running as a candidate who would accept the will of MA voters on abortion and same sex marriage, he turned on a dime as soon as he realized that in order to get the GOP nomination, he would have to be a social conservative.
He vetoed the MA Legislature's universal health care, and then when the veto was overridden and it turned out to be popular, took credit for it and is now using it as a campaign issue.
Finally, when he was head of the RNC, he basically left Massachusetts – the state he was elected to lead – and traveled around the country mocking it. He did return when a woman died tragically in an accident which had to do with a state highway project... he was back about a week, got his picture taken with a hard hat on, and then left again. (By then, he was bored being governor and wanted to play president.)
He's a self-obsessed, dishonest man, and he would be a terrible president.
btw, I hope about 70% do not own dogs, for the sake of dogs everywhere.
I would say Mitt really knows how to put a dog – mans best friend – in its place.
Wow, with all the millions of dollars, you treat your dogs like another stock to trade or company to make money from.
Mr. Rommey,
Don't forget to buy eyeglasses for your dogn next time!
YOU HAVE MY vOTE.
I'm no great fan of PETA and I don't even like dogs. However, it does strike me as an incredibly cruel thing to do to a dog to put its carrier on the roof of the car and let it urinate and defecate all over itself. Whether that is a relevant political issue depends on what it may or may not reveal about Mitt Romney's character. However, at the very least it strikes me as an incredibly callous way to treat one of God's creatures. I wouldn't treat an animal I was going to eat that way let alone an animal that was supposedly a part of the family. In the end unfortunately it doesn't really surprise me that a politician could be so, at the very least, insensitive.
Listen, I'm a dog person and love animals in general. This was not cruel. Imagine wanting to take a beloved pet with you from say, LA to London. How would your pet travel? Probably in a cramped carrier in the luggage compartment of an airplane for over 12 hours...(yes, I'm sure there would be poop there too)
What is the difference? Additionally, I'm sure the Romney Family stopped more than a few times on their trip. This wasn't cruel, the dog enjoyed it. And for those upset about poop, here's a newsflash... Dogs (and kids) poop; and not only when they are quote-unquote "scared." I think people are getting too worked up over nothing.
Can we get back to real issues now?
The big takeaway from this story: Mitt Romney is a major-league WEIRDO.
Don't know much about this guy. I am not a PETA or do I support them. We as a society can be judged by the way we treat our animals and he should be judged by the same standard. Even though he putting on a front of a caring person all it is a front nothing else. I would not even vote for him even if he was running for Dog Catcher of a one dog town.
Here are two points that have not been raised. What if the dog carrier fell off the top of the car and CAUSED A WRECK ? ( So not only would the dog be in jeopardy, so would the safety of people.)
Also, if the Romneys hadn't bred like rabbits and had 5 children, there would have been room in the car for a dog. There are too many people on this planet for anyone to have 5 kids. Have two-one each to replace you and your spouse. Anymore is egotistical and irresponsible.
Actually, I find the story at last somewhat interesting – since it provides some (admittedly negative) insight into the candidates values.
The litmus test: if there were a story about Romney's exceptional compassion demonstrated to an animal 20 years ago – would those who object to this story feel that it too was equally irrelevant?
I think not.
Given that the US finds itself in a defensive posture on the international diplomacy stage, and that we are perceived to embrace and evangelize a rather unbalanced, arbitrary and inhumane world view of human suffering through our strained foreign policy priorities – evidence of strained / damaged humanitarian values in a presidential candidate IS relevant to me.
I don't like PETA, but it was horrible that he strapped his dog to the roof! Dogs aren't luggage. They are a member of the family, not objects. I doubt the dog liked it if he crapped everywhere during the ride. Romney should be in jail for animal cruelty. It's too dangerous for a dog to be on the roof; that's common sense! What if the cage slipped off? Romney's a terrible person.
Well the guy has like 5 kids there was probably no room for the dog. and besides people have their dogs tranquilized and riding it luggage compartments of airplanes for transportation all the time and none of those people are under fire. This is just another pathetic example of the liberal media trying to get their hands on any dirt the can get on this guy. LETS FACE IT AMERICA he is pretty clean i think we got about all we can get.
I am disgusted. I don't care what PETA thinks. I don't care if the dog "liked it". I am just disgusted that such an inhumane individual is even possibly our president. This is just revolting. Obviously this man actually has no forethought, no conscience, and for having retold the story to a reporter, also lacks afterthought.
People who would do this are gutless. Nothing wrong with PETA, you might find them extreme, but at least their motives are explicit and pure. Romney has no such noble intentions. He's wants the position to make money so he can marry more wives, you dopes. Oh, and since he's republican, he probably wants to recruit boys to be his "assistants."
B
Keep in mind that this was the 80s...my parents used to throw me and my little brother in the back of the covered pickup while driving on the highway so they could get some peace and quiet... If my parents (who are salt of the earth people by the way) can do that with their CHILDREN then surely Romney can do it with a dog...c'mon people, it's PETA for cryin' out loud.
Not to be critical, but you people who criticize Romney are being inhumane. Why do you call him sick and attack him? Romney is probablly the nicest of the 2008 candidates. He is very professional and seems like a perfect candidate for 2008. The world needs a good American President like Romney.
I do not like PETA–they're a nutty organization–but in this case they're right. Packing a dog on top of the roof is ridiculous and dangerous. Who cares if it was the 80s? If he'd strapped one of his kids up there in the 80s would that be okay because " LOLZ, it wuz a long tim ago!!!"?
Makes me question his intellect, not that intellect is a requirement for u.s. presidency infact that would be a negative. What bothers me even more so is that fact that he shoots quail for game, now thats a sick state of mind & poor excuse for a human. I say we romney & cheney hunt.
Anyone that would carry a pet on top of a car is stupid. Far to stupid to make choices for me. Don't judge him based on your dislike for PETA. Judge him on his lack of care for a family pet. A living creature that you claim to love should never be put in a situation that is more unsafe then you would pt yourself or a child in. They trust you to take care of them and are not smart enough to judge when WE put them in danger. Whether they like being on top of a car or not is not the point. The point is would you put your own child up there?
That comment makes me like him more.
I'm from Massachusetts and have met Mr. Romney a couple of times. He is super nice and super cute. He can dog sit my dogs anytime.
P.S. i wish these people who are all about animal protection would feel the same for unborn children.... YOU BUNCH OF HYPOCRITES!!!!!!!!!!!
PUTTING A DOG ON TOP OF A CAR IN A CARRIER IS NOT NORMAL. MITT ROMNEY IS NOT THE KIND OF PERSON YOU WANT FOR PRESIDENT.
Official Romney photo shows dog enjoying being strapped for 12 hours on the roof and having diarrhea.
People are blaming this on PETA – they did not bring this up, Romney did, as he was bragging about his ability to problem solve. Boy, I'm sure impressed! He is a bigger idiot than I thought . . .
That's no way to treat a dog. Sure, my dog loves to smoke, but do I let him? Heck no, it isn't good for him and frankly I do not care one bit for the smell on his coat. A side note: can you imagine the constant 'roar' from the wind at highway speed from a ventilated pet carrier in the slipstream? "Hereeeeeeeeee doggy! Heeeeeeeeeere buddy!" dog: "huh? you say somethin'?"
IT WAS 24 YEARS AGO! Learn to count Shawnie before you comment! The dog was also loosing control over his bowels, which clearly states he was not in a comfortable situation. Plus it was a 12 hour trip! All of you people make me sick thinking anything like this is acceptable!
The dog pooped in his crate. That should indicate that the dog could maybe be a little uncomfortable. But rather than think even for a second that there might be a problem, Mitt and sons probably had a good hearty laugh as they hosed it down like a prisoner. Ah, the great American vacation. Remember the time old Seamus was so scared out of his mind that he crapped on the roof? Good times. Good times.
Why all the anger at PETA? Hello...did anyone even hear the actual story line? Romney strapped his pet to the roof of his car for 12 hours!!!
The way a person will treat an animal says a lot about the kind of person that they are. Murders usually started out abusing animals.
My pets are family members and I would never treat a family member this way!
I hear Michael Vick endorsed Romney
Vote for a man that has no scruples about strapping his own dog to the roof of his car for 12 hours on a family vacation??? Ooh yes please!!! So much for "compassionate conservativism"! ...I'm sure the dog had it coming.
I was disgusted by this story. If you kids wanted to ride on the roof rack would you let them. He claims that his dog loved to ride up there. If you don't have room in the car for the dog you leave him at home and hire a pet sitter. I watched many of my neighbor's pets growing up. Yes even 20 years ago most people were responsible pet owners. It doesn't surprise me that he supports torture tactics; he tortures his own family pet.
I don't think cruelty was at all an issue here. Many comments here seem to be politically motivated or based on emotion, not logic. Since the dog was shielded from the wind, he would just be in breezy conditions. I've been in these conditions... ridden in the back of a truck, in a convertible, in a car with the windows down and on a motorcycle, it's not that bad. The dog has a fur coat so it may have actually felt good to be in the breeze depending on the temperature. I've seen dogs in the back of trucks, their tail is wagging. Ever see a dog in a car with the windows down? His head is usually sticking out the window with his tongue flapping in the wind. I think people who think too much with emotion get hung up on the phrase "dog strapped to the top of a car" and don't think about the actual conditions.
The brown liquid was probably a result of something he ate or diarrhea, not from stressful conditions. Romney said "He scrambled up there every time we went on trips," Dogs love to be with people and the dog was glad just to be going wherever the family was going. Dogs hate being left alone. If you were going to ding Romney for anything, it would be a possible safety issue if the dog carrier wasn't strapped securely. The only cruelty I could possibly see is the dog being in a dog crate, dogs love to be out in the open running around not in a crate. Since this was just for temporary travel, I don't think it's that bad. If the dog could choose, I'm sure he would have ridden inside the car... with the windows down.