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Dog trainer Nikki Camerlengo, owner of Pawsitively Paradise, faces second count of animal cruelty

WPTV reporter Kate Hussey has covered issues involving the trainer for more than a year

Dog trainer Nikki Camerlengo is now facing a second count of animal cruelty, according to Martin County deputies.

By: Kate Hussey

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PALM CITY, Fla. — Dog trainer Nikki Camerlengo is now facing a second count of animal cruelty, according to Martin County deputies.

Investigators told WPTV reporter Kate Hussey — who has covered problems at Palm City-based Pawsitively Paradise for more than a year — that the dog trainer is being charged in the death of Flurrie, a golden doodle they say died in her care in March.

According to lead detective Christine Polizzi, Camerlengo admitted on body camera footage to being the only person with Flurrie at the time of the dog's death, leading prosecutors to file the second count.

WPTV Investigates

Pet owners whose dogs died said this after trainer arrested

Dave Bohman

Turner Benoit of Jupiter Farms told WPTV in March that his mother boarded the goldendoodle at Pawsitively Paradise for a week, hoping the puppy would be trained and cared for.

Camerlengo was charged in June in the death of Beau, a 2-year-old Cavapoo who deputies said died after hours in Camerlengo's care three weeks after Flurrie.

Necropsy results WPTV obtained show both dogs died of blunt force trauma.