HOMOSASSA, Fla. – A Citrus County dog boarding facility owner has been arrested on felony animal cruelty charges after two dogs died while in her care and investigators discovered eight other boarded dogs living in what authorities described as hazardous conditions.
Nicole Palmer, 43, of Homosassa, was arrested on two felony counts of animal cruelty following an investigation at Pampered Paws Ranch, located at 4430 S. Tonya Terrace. Additional charges could be filed as veterinary examinations are completed and the investigation continues, according to the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office.
The investigation began July 30 after deputies received a 911 call reporting suspected animal cruelty at the property, which was being used as both a residence and dog boarding business.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, the owners of two dogs boarded at Pampered Paws Ranch had been informed that both of their pets died while under Palmer’s care.
When deputies and Citrus County Animal Control Officers arrived, they reported detecting a strong odor consistent with deceased animals. Investigators also found equipment and other items associated with a dog boarding operation throughout several areas of the property.
Authorities eventually gained access to a converted garage where the two deceased dogs had reportedly been kept.
Animal Control Officers documented what the Sheriff’s Office described as severe environmental neglect inside the enclosed room. Investigators reported large accumulations of animal feces and urine along with garbage and other debris.
No visible source of drinking water was found in the room. Authorities also said they could not confirm that the area had working air conditioning despite heat advisories being in effect.
As deputies continued searching the property, they identified eight additional dogs that had been boarded at the facility.
Conditions inside the main residence were also described as hazardous. Investigators reported excessive animal waste, high indoor temperatures and minimal access to clean drinking water.
One of the dogs was found suffering from what authorities described as a serious and untreated eye infection.
Animal Control Officers immediately secured all of the remaining dogs. Several owners responded to the property and reclaimed their pets, while other dogs were taken to the Citrus County Animal Shelter for veterinary evaluation and preservation of evidence related to the investigation.
“When families board their pets, they’re trusting someone with a loved member of their home,” Citrus County Sheriff David Vincent said. “That trust was broken in this case.”
Vincent said investigators made determining what happened to the animals and ensuring the safety of the remaining dogs a priority.
“Our team made it a priority to uncover the facts and ensure no other animals were in danger,” Vincent said.
Palmer was subsequently taken into custody and charged with two felony counts of animal cruelty in connection with the two dogs that died.
The Sheriff’s Office said the case remains under investigation. Veterinary examinations of the animals are continuing, and authorities said the results could lead to additional criminal charges.