SYLACAUGA, Ala. – A dog trainer operating out of Sylacauga, Dylan Shotwell, has been arrested for allegedly mistreating animals under his care.
Multiple dog owners have come forward with heartbreaking stories of their pets suffering and even dying while boarded at Shotwell’s facility in Sylacauga.
Denise Boyce, one of the affected owners, discovered that her 14-month-old German Shepherd named Gunner died from wounds and torture at the facility. Kathy Hammonds also shared her experience of her German Shepherd, Laser, being poisoned with a lethal dose of THC during training.
Several other owners took to social media and reported similar incidents of their dogs returning home injured, starved, or missing after being trained by Shotwell.
These clients are now seeking justice and demanding that Shotwell be held accountable for his actions. Talladega County investigators anticipate additional charges against him.
Shotwell operated under the business name of Iron Grip Training and has now changed his dog training company’s title to Push the Line K9.
Pet owners who suspect their animals were mistreated are urged to contact the Talladega County Sheriff’s Office.
It is important to note that Alabama does not require licenses for dog trainers, although certifications are available from various organizations.
