Sarah Palin kicked off the New Year with controversial Facebook photos of her son Trig and their family dog.

Miss America 2015 Speaks On Hazing Controversy

In the photos, the 6-year-old is seen standing on the dog’s back in order to reach a counter, which Palin referred to as the boy’s “stepping stone.”

“May 2015 see every stumbling block turned into a stepping stone on the path forward. Trig just reminded me. He, determined to help wash dishes with an oblivious mama not acknowledging his signs for ‘up!’, found me and a lazy dog blocking his way,” the former Governor of Alaska wrote as the caption.

Taylor Swift Gets Backlash For Shake It Off Video

The photos of Palin’s son, who has Down syndrome, were intended to be inspirational, but instead sparked controversy. Many animal lovers felt Palin disregarded the dog’s well-being and also judged her parenting skills.

“Can we collectively unite to stomp on Sarah Palin’s spine? These photos are unbelievable,” one user wrote.

Another said: “That Sarah Palin thought her son standing on the family dog was cute and not disturbing says a lot.”

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) also tweeted, “Unbelievable! I have forwarded this info to our Cruelty Investigation Department.”

Some others, however, called the backlash a "faux outrage," including one Twitter user who wrote, "The dog is fine (and I'm a dog lover)."

Another person also pointed out that the dog would have moved if the animal was in pain or uncomfortable.

What are your thoughts on the photos? Let us know in the comments below.