In January 2025, two activists from PETA were arrested for attempting to dump manure outside the ASPCA offices in Manhattan. PETA accused the ASPCA of giving out certificates that validate animal welfare at locations with a history of cruelty, labeling it as "humane washing." The incident highlights the clash between animal rights organizations and animal welfare groups in the animal protection movement.

Similar challenges have been seen in the UK, where Animal Rising exposed cruelty on farms certified by the RSPCA-Assured scheme. This clash reflects differing approaches within the animal protection movement, with some advocating for the elimination of animal agriculture while others focus on improving animal welfare standards. The incident is part of a larger trend of activism within the animal rights movement towards organizations that are perceived to support exploitative practices.