PITTSBURGH — The executive director of the Western Pennsylvania Humane Society has resigned amid accusations by online activists that she paid a breeder $1,000 for a purebred collie puppy rather than adopt a rescue dog from the shelter.
Joy Braunstein's resignation was accepted effective Friday, according to the humane society.
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Animal activists who signed an online petition had contended Braunstein should be fired.
"It is the height of hypocrisy to be the face of an organization that promotes adoption and combats overpopulation while purchasing a dog from a breeder," the Change.org petition states.
Braunstein released the following statement on Friday:
<br/>"Given the present circumstances, I have made a personal choice to step away from The Western Pennsylvania Humane Society and resign my position effective immediately out of respect for my family and out of respect for the organization. I wish the Western Pennsylvania Humane Society well and will continue to be a supporter of the organization. At this time, I have not decided what I plan to do next professionally. Before I do, I plan to take some time with my family. I want to thank the Western Pennsylvania Humane Society for my time there and everyone else for their concern, but I have no further comment."
Until a replacement for Braunstein is found, the humane society's leadership team will manage day-to-day operations.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.