The animal rights organization People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals has unveiled a Halloween costume inspired by Gov. Kristi Noem (R-SD), who admitted in her memoir, “No Going Back,” to shooting and killing her dog Cricket.
PETA’s “Cricket’s Revenge” costume depicts Noem holding a rifle, wearing a blood-splattered white shirt and red jacket, with a mask of her face featuring devil horns and a camouflage hat that reads “Noem: Puppy Killer.” The costume includes a stuffed dog with a bandana that reads “Take a Bite out of Cruelty,” biting the costume owner’s neck.
PETA President Ingrid Newkirk expressed that anyone who would choose to shoot a puppy instead of training it or finding a new guardian is scarier than any horror movie villain. The costume is designed to allow dog lovers to make a statement at Halloween parties.
The costume is available for preorder at the PETA Shop online for $79.99. Gov. Noem has faced criticism for her actions regarding her dog, whom she described as aggressive and having attacked her and a neighbor’s animals. The controversy comes at a time when she is rumored to be a potential vice presidential pick for former President Trump in the 2024 election.