A PR nightmare is erupting for Skechers and their Super Bowl ad.

So far the brand has been almost silent about the rumblings from animal rights activists to have the ad pulled for featuring dog racing.

The only comments from the brand that I can find are one confirming that the American Humane association was on set during the filming, ensuring that no animals were harmed in the making of the commercial and an assurance from Skechers svp/global ad director Gary Patrick that they do not promote the practice of dog racing. On Facebook they’re letting the public battle it out in comments while they stay quiet on the issue and continue to tease the commercial.

They’re missing the point. Why not acknowledge the issue now. Address it honestly. Apologize. Use this as an opportunity for education.

What do you think?

Will turning a blind eye to the issue bite them in the ass?