It is with immense pain and sadness that we share our devastating experience with K9 University in Washington, Missouri. We entrusted our beloved Hazel, a 2-year-old King Charles Cavalier, to K9 University and Vicki Russell, the owner, for one week of boarding and training. Tragically, on July 19th, we received the horrifying news that Hazel had been brutally killed by Ms. Russel's own dog.
According to Ms. Russel, she allowed her large dog to interact with Hazel unsupervised, leading to the vicious attack that ended Hazel's life. Ms. Russel described the attack as her dog "shaking Hazel like a ragdoll" and snapping her neck, leading us to believe death, although violent, was quick. Not so. The staff at the crematory informed us her injuries were far more serious and gruesome, suggesting she suffered a prolonged and brutal attack.
Adding to our heartbreak, we since learned this is not an isolated incident. A similar incident occurred in 2023 indicating a disturbing pattern of recklessness.
As a licensed professional, Ms. Russel should be held to the highest standards of care. Unfortunately, her actions, or lack thereof, resulted in the needless death of our beloved Hazel. It's deeply concerning that someone who presents themselves as a professional dog trainer would allow such a tragedy to occur--not once, but twice.
Please do not take your dog to K9 University. The risk is simply not worth it. Protect your dog so you don't experience the pain and tragedy we have endured. No family should have to experience what we, and particularly our sons, are experiencing. It's heart wrenching beyond description.
We love you dearly Hazel. Rest easy sweet girl. read more
