Vance Criticizes Dog Abusers Amid Noem Puppy Controversy

Vice President JD Vance told the Pod Force One podcast that mistreating dogs is “almost a 100% sign” someone is a “really terrible person,” linking animal cruelty to serial killers and criticizing streamer Hasan Piker over a viral shock‑collar clip while saying he does not use such devices on his own dog. His remarks drew scrutiny because Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem — his cabinet colleague — admitted in her 2024 memoir that she shot her 14‑month‑old puppy, Cricket, and has described using an electric shock collar to train a pup. Noem has defended the actions as legal and necessary given the dog’s behavior and proximity to children. The juxtaposition of Vance’s condemnation of animal mistreatment and Noem’s admissions prompted criticism, satire and extensive media coverage, and reignited debate about her fitness for higher office.