In a decision that took the animal-rights community by surprise on Friday, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) announced that it will build approximately 250 facilities across the country to provide shelter for pet robot dogs that have been abandoned by their owners.
In a press conference held at the organization’s headquarters in New York City, ASPCA President Matthew Bershadker noted that “we’ve all seen these dogs suffering on the street — dented, scuffed, and barely able to walk due to a low battery. It’s appalling. Every robot dog, regardless of breed, deserves to be fully charged and secure in a loving home.”
When a reporter observed that “robot dogs can’t suffer because they’re not living creatures,” Berhsadker responded, “what’s your point?”
This actually wouldn’t surprise me.