I heard a rumor that PETA releases dogs from their crates at dog shows. Is this true?

Not at all! This accusation is not only untrue but absolutely absurd.

Although PETA supports dog obedience trials, especially those that allow the participation of mixed breeds, we don’t like conformation dog shows since they promote dogs based on appearance, and many of the “desirable” physical traits can cause a variety of health problems in many breeds. In addition, many breed standards call for tail-docking and ear-cropping, which are unnecessary and cruel. Dog shows also promote purebred dogs (and therefore breeding), rather then rescuing homeless mixed breeds from shelters.

However, it would be contrary to all PETA believes in to frighten, disorient, or risk physical harm to dogs by letting them out of their show crates. Interestingly, the only individuals who would benefit from carrying out such irresponsible and cruel actions and placing the blame on PETA are those who are threatened by the progress PETA is making in changing industries that depend on animal suffering for profit.