Singapore – A heart-wrenching incident at Pawsome Pet Grooming Salon in Tanjong Katong has left the community shaken following the death of a three-year-old poodle named Buddy. The tragic event on October 30, 2025, has led to accusations of negligence against the salon, sparking a nationwide debate on pet care standards and the ethics of animal grooming.
What Happened
The unfortunate incident unfolded during Buddy’s grooming session at Pawsome Pet Grooming Salon. According to Tanish Dhillon, Buddy’s owner, the poodle began showing visible signs of distress while being groomed and was subsequently left unattended in an enclosure. Dhillon claims that despite Buddy’s cries for help, no staff members attended to him for what she alleges was an extended period, ultimately leading to his death.
In a deeply emotional statement, Dhillon filed a police report accusing the salon of gross negligence. The report highlighted the emotional trauma caused by the alleged inaction of the staff. To support her claims, Dhillon released partial CCTV footage that showed Buddy struggling, crying, and howling for 11-12 minutes before becoming motionless. The footage also suggests that the poodle was left unattended for an additional period after his death.
Who Was Buddy
Buddy was a beloved three-year-old poodle known for his playful and affectionate nature. His tragic passing has devastated his family and sparked a conversation about the treatment of pets in grooming facilities. Buddy’s loss has also drawn attention to the need for stricter regulations in the pet care industry to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
As a cherished companion, Buddy’s death has become a symbol of the bond between pets and their owners. Dhillon, who described Buddy as “her baby,” is now fighting for justice and greater accountability in pet care.
The Investigation and Legal Proceedings
In response to the allegations, Pawsome Pet Grooming issued a statement expressing their condolences for Buddy’s death. The salon claimed that its staff acted “immediately” when noticing signs of distress and followed proper procedures. However, Tanish Dhillon strongly disputed these claims, pointing to the CCTV footage as evidence of a prolonged delay before any intervention took place.
The authorities have initiated an investigation into the incident, with the police reviewing the evidence and considering potential legal action. Animal welfare organizations have rallied behind Dhillon, calling for a full inquiry into the circumstances surrounding Buddy’s death. Advocates are also pushing for better training for pet grooming staff and the implementation of stricter industry regulations to ensure the safety and well-being of animals in their care.
Public and Social Media Reactions
The death of Buddy has ignited widespread outrage online, with animal rights groups, pet owners, and concerned citizens rallying in support of Dhillon. Social media platforms have been flooded with posts calling for justice for Buddy, and many have shared their own experiences with pet grooming services.
One user on Twitter wrote, “This is heartbreaking. No pet should have to suffer like this. We need stricter regulations and better staff training to protect our furry family members.” Another shared, “I am so sorry for your loss, Tanish. Buddy’s story has touched so many of us, and we will fight with you for justice.”
Official Statements and What Happens Next
The Toledo Police Department has continued its investigation into the incident, reviewing evidence and interviewing witnesses. In the wake of the incident, Pawsome Pet Grooming has been under increasing pressure to release the full CCTV footage to provide transparency and clarity about what transpired.
Tanish Dhillon remains determined to seek justice for her beloved pet, vowing to ensure that Buddy’s death will not be in vain. She has called for a thorough investigation into the matter and for accountability from the grooming salon.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
