I don't know what it could be signalling, but in situations like this, with picture comms (dog or otherwise), always pay attention to the hand/arm positions and the leg positions.

For example, we're all familiar with the Masonic lions paw gesture.

First thing that popped out was Joe's legs being crossed in a particular way, while his arms are up and down in a Baphometic pose even though it's disguised by the phone.

Comms aside, do they actually think people see these photos and think they're legitimate? Yeah, I'm making important calls - bring in the camera crew.