Target: Summer Stephan, District Attorney, San Diego County, California
Goal: Investigate viral footage seeming to show dogs crammed on a long board on the water without vests, shade, or adequate safeguards.
Reports describe nearly a dozen dogs surfing upon one long board while waves slapped around them. Commenters say they spotted no flotation vests. Several viewers accused handlers of using animals for spectacle. Concerns centered on drowning risk, paw abrasions, heat stress, and panic masked by forced balance.
Observers also argued that dogs were left without shade or specialized mats. Some posts claimed entertainment trumped welfare. Owners reportedly smiled for cameras while animals rode stacked and rigid. Surf breaks change fast. A single spill can tangle leashes, trap limbs, or shove snouts under water. Elderly dogs face heightened danger. Puppies fare worse.
Public prosecutors can curb stunts that apparently gamble with lives. When evidence shows unreasonable risk or cruel handling, criminal charges should follow. Seizure orders, probation terms, counseling, restitution for veterinary exams, and lifetime bans for repeat offenders can protect future animals. Clear rules should restrict board headcount, require canine life vests, forbid stacked rides, and demand shade, water, trained handlers, and on‑site veterinary oversight.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear District Attorney Stephan,
A widely shared video reportedly shows many dogs crowded onto a single surfboard while bystanders cheer. Commenters alleged missing life vests, inadequate shade, and risky handling. Additional remarks accused owners of using animals for amusement rather than welfare. These scenes, if verified, suggest preventable danger and possible neglect.
We respectfully ask your office to open a thorough investigation, coordinate with humane officers, secure all footage, and evaluate canine health outcomes. If evidence supports violations, please file every applicable charge, seek maximum penalties, and request consecutive terms where statutes allow. We further urge seizure or protective custody where risk persists, restitution for veterinary evaluations, and mandatory counseling.
Please also champion enforceable safeguards for organized dog‑surfing displays. Require fitted flotation vests, strict rider limits per board, prohibition on stacking animals, constant shade and water, stress monitoring, and trained handlers under veterinary guidance. Visible accountability here can prevent future harm while affirming compassion for animals who cannot consent.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Eric Sonstroem
