Former NC pet spa employee charged with animal abuse after disturbing video circulates the internet

MOORESVILLE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — A former employee at a pet spa was charged with felony animal abuse Wednesday after reports of “disturbing” behavior at the Mooresville business. 

According to the Iredell County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were alerted on Monday of an alleged case of animal cruelty. Three days before, the county Animal Services received reports and video footage of abuse by an employee at Classy Critters off Brawley School Road. 

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Deputies say the video, captured by a coworker, reportedly depicts the employee repeatedly striking and mishandling dogs during grooming sessions. These dogs were verified to be clients’ pets brought in for routine care. 

Iredell County Det. Sgt. P. Irwin immediately conferred with Animal Control officers and reviewed the submitted evidence. The sheriff’s office says the videos revealed “troubling behavior” involving at least four separate dogs being treated in “a clearly aggressive and abusive manner.” 

The employee was identified as 28-year-old Kirsten Rhea Taylor, of Mooresville. Based on video evidence and corroborating witness statements, Irwin obtained arrest warrants charging Taylor with four counts of felony animal cruelty. 

The owner of Classy Critters says the actions on the video were “addressed immediately” and the employee no longer works there.

“I have zero tolerance for any type of abuse with the animals in my care,” she said. “I have made this clear with my employees. This has been my life mission for over 40 years and I absolutely love what I do, I love and care deeply for all of them and it breaks my heart that this happened. I hope that the actions of one bad egg does not reflect on Classy Critters and the entire staff.”

The investigation remains ongoing. Additional charges may be forthcoming as investigators continue to interview witnesses, contact affected pet owners and compile further evidence.

After being booked in the Iredell County jail, Taylor was released on bond Wednesday.

Sheriff Darren Campbell detailed how Animal Services is a separate department from the sheriff’s office.  

“This case highlights the critical importance of coordinated responses in matters involving animal cruelty,” Sheriff Darren Campbell said. “While we maintain a strong working relationship with Animal Services and appreciate their role in this investigation, it’s important for the public to understand that the Sheriff’s Office does not oversee Animal Control operations in Iredell County. Since Animal Control is a separate department, certain investigative actions and responses must follow a referral process. We will always take allegations of animal abuse seriously and will hold offenders accountable.”