Why Georgie Purcell thinks changing the Western Bulldogs’ name and mascot isn’t the ‘right approach’

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) has called for the Western Bulldogs to change their name and mascot to recognise the health issues with the bulldog breed by renaming the club the ‘Western Mutts’.

Animal Justice Party MP Georgie Purcell understands the intentions behind the push, but doesn’t think it’s the “right approach”.

“I think that there’s other ways that we can address this in a more meaningful way that actually does something for the protection of brachy breeds and animal welfare in Victoria,” Ms Purcell told Tom Elliott on 3AW Mornings.

Press PLAY to hear her explain

Ms Purcell thinks PETA are looking for a headline by calling for the change of the team name and mascot ahead of the AFL Grand Final, and “obviously looking to raise awareness”.

“I’m not sure that people are actually fully understanding why this is such a severe animal welfare issue,” she said.

Football legend torches animal rights group over request to change Bulldogs name, mascot

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