Story perspectives

Homeland Security Chief Noem Admits Shooting Puppy, Sparks Outcry

5/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

Homeland Security secretary Kristi Noem admitted in her 2024 memoir she shot her 14-month-old puppy Cricket in South Dakota, claiming the dog was dangerous to livestock and people.
Animal advocates and several politicians condemned the killing, saying the puppy was healthy and could have been re-homed.
Sen. Tina Smith posted a puppy photo warning Noem while Sen. Thom Tillis linked the killing to her ICE-shooting handling, questioning her leadership.

1 of 1

Story summary

Homeland Security secretary Kristi Noem admitted in her 2024 memoir she shot her 14-month-old puppy Cricket in South Dakota, claiming the dog was dangerous to livestock and people.
Animal advocates and several politicians condemned the killing, saying the puppy was healthy and could have been re-homed.
Sen. Tina Smith posted a puppy photo warning Noem while Sen. Thom Tillis linked the killing to her ICE-shooting handling, questioning her leadership.