SAINT MARYS: A pet grooming business in Elk County is currently under investigation after disturbing footage surfaced on social media, showing an alleged incident of physical mistreatment involving a dog during a grooming session.

Shearly Pawfect Pets, a grooming facility in Saint Marys, has come under scrutiny after a video captured the business owner holding a dog down and sweeping its legs out from under it. The footage quickly spread across social media, sparking outrage from concerned viewers and animal lovers alike. The video was reportedly recorded by a former employee of the grooming business.

In response to the incident, Heather Hoover, the director of Animals Matter of Clearfield County, expressed her shock upon viewing the video. Hoover immediately contacted the State Police in Elk County, who had already been receiving multiple calls about the incident and were en route to the location.

"I was absolutely stunned when I saw the video. I knew I had to act fast, so I reached out to the State Police, who were already on their way to the facility after receiving numerous calls," Hoover said. "I later spoke with the dog’s owner, who was understandably upset and agreed that action needed to be taken. She felt strongly about pressing charges."

The dog featured in the video, a Golden Retriever named Charlie, was reportedly the subject of the incident. According to Hoover, the dog’s owner should be able to trust that her pet would be safe and well-treated during a grooming appointment. Hoover reassured the owner that she was not to blame for the situation, emphasizing that pet owners should be able to feel confident in the care their animals receive at any grooming establishment.

"I told her this wasn’t her fault. No pet owner should feel worried about dropping their dog off at a groomer. You should be able to trust them with your pet's well-being," Hoover said. "It's important that people know their pets are in good hands when they leave them with professionals."

The video, which sparked a firestorm of reactions on social media, led to an outpouring of concern from the local community and beyond. Efforts to contact Shearly Pawfect Pets for comment were unsuccessful, as the business’s phone number was disconnected. However, the owner of the grooming shop later agreed to speak privately, defending the business and providing their side of the story, though they requested to remain anonymous and declined to show their face.

"I’ve been receiving harassing calls and messages from people all across the country, some of whom are states away. People see a 15-second video online, and suddenly they think they know the whole story," the business owner explained. "This video doesn’t show the complete context of the situation."

While the owner refrained from discussing specifics about the incident, as it is still under investigation, they were eager to defend their practices and express their long-standing commitment to animal care. The owner also noted that they had been in the grooming business for nearly 18 years and that their passion for animals is central to their work.

"I’ve been doing this for almost two decades, and I have a deep love for animals—dogs and cats alike. It’s not just a job for me, it’s a passion," the owner continued. "I invite anyone to come into my shop and see for themselves how we operate. We take great pride in caring for the animals entrusted to us."

Despite the owner’s defense, Hoover remains critical of the claims made on social media that the dog may have been aggressive prior to the incident occurring. According to Hoover, there is no evidence to suggest that the dog’s behavior justified the actions shown in the video. Hoover believes the dog’s safety and treatment should always be prioritized, regardless of any behavioral issues the animal may have had during the grooming.

"People on Facebook have claimed the dog was aggressive before this video was taken, but I don’t believe that’s the case," Hoover said. "Regardless of the dog’s behavior, there’s no reason for this kind of treatment. The priority should always be the safety and well-being of the animals."

As the investigation continues, the Saint Marys Police Department is working closely with the State Police to determine the next steps in the case. The outcome of this investigation could have significant implications for the pet grooming industry in the region, highlighting the importance of ensuring the safety of animals in grooming facilities and reinforcing the trust pet owners place in these businesses.

For now, Shearly Pawfect Pets remains under investigation, and the local community is left to await further details about what transpired during the grooming session.