Car dealership faces backlash after taking dog mascot from laid-off worker in TX
A car dealership in Texas is under attack after letting go of the employee who handles their dog mascot — but keeping the dog.
Rally, who has been known as Austin Subaru’s “Ambassadog,” is left without his caretaker of three years after the dealership laid him off but kept Rally.
“And just like that … Rally and I are no more,” Instagram user known as “Sh._.y” said in a post featuring a photo of him and the golden retriever. “Unfortunately, I was let go from my company today and was separated from my boy. I’m completely heartbroken and I’m sure he is as well.”
Rally is the marketing mascot while his handler was a member of the marketing team and was responsible for the pup on a day-to-day basis and basically being his human companion for years, Chron reported.
“We grew a bond that no one will never really understand. It was a fun ride and I completely spoiled him every single day without regret,” the handler said.
The dealership has come under fire after the post went viral, with people commenting on the company’s social media accounts, including their Instagram posts.
“Do better,” one person said under an Oct. 1 post that tagged Austin Pets Alive, an animal shelter that is supported by the dealership.
“Give Rally back,” another said.
“Give Rally back to the one that cared for him and took on the responsibility,” someone said.
The backlash spread across their social media with people telling the company to give Rally back to his handler on Reddit and Facebook.
The dealership released a statement on Instagram about the controversy.
“At Austin Subaru, the well-being and happiness of our team members and our beloved dog, Rally, are of the utmost importance. While we cannot comment on the details surrounding any individual’s employment, we want to assure our community that Rally remains deeply loved and well cared for by our employees and ownership team.
“Rally is a cherished part of our dealership family , and his safety, stability, and daily care have always been and will continue to be our top priority. We understand that emotions can run high, but please know that there are always multiple perspectives, and every decision we make is guided by what we believe best for Rally and our greater Subaru family.”
McClatchy News reached out to both Austin Subaru and Rally’s handler and and awaits a response.
This story was originally published October 13, 2025 at 3:48 PM with the headline "Car dealership faces backlash after taking dog mascot from laid-off worker in TX."