Graphic by Gabriel Currie
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN — TUPD’s Pepper (K9) was discovered unaccompanied amidst the roaring crowds at the Republican National Convention. During Former President Donald J. Trump’s keynote speech, an anonymous source (David Van Riper) told The Zamboni that Pepper, seated on the balcony, continuously chanted “Back the Blue” whilst vigorously wagging her tail, indicating her approval of the MAGA platform. Given the visit’s secretive nature, community members have raised concerns about the veracity of Pepper’s friendly, all-inclusive persona.
Although not physically aggressive, resurfaced video challenges her role as a “comfort dog” on the Tufts campus. Pepper’s body cam reveals her tendency to whisper racist and misogynistic remarks towards students during campus mental health checks. Students who have previously vocalized their concern about Pepper’s inappropriate behavior are unsurprised by her association with far-right politics, but the rest of her fans are understandably devastated.
As a member of a police union, however, Pepper has avoided internal investigation and continues to work as a comfort dog. We understand this story is deeply upsetting. Please seek help as needed, but maybe not from Pepper.
