Pasco Pet Spa Owner Hit With 9 More Animal Cruelty Charges

Originally, the owner of a West Pasco pet spa was facing three counts of alleged animal cruelty after owners complained about their pets suffering injuries.

Now, Michelle Burt, owner of the Paw Spa salon, has been charged with 9 additional counts, according to sources. The Franklin County Prosecuting Attorney's office has been investigating the case for nearly 9 months. The spa is located on Road 68.

According to sources, Benton Franklin Animal Control began to receive complaints about Burt's treatment of animals as far back as 2016. But they began to gain traction after additional complaints accompanied by actual evidence of injuries seen on the animals. It also picked up speed when information was obtained from former employees of Burt.

Now, authorities say the additional 9 counts bring her total to 12. She is accused of allegedly choking and otherwise abusing animals under her care, reportedly in an effort to get them to behave if they act 'up' or get agitated.

She will next appear in court April 16th, with trial set for May 29.

For more details on this case, click on the button below