By Kendall Jang, Staff Writer
A Miami County animal boarding facility has been ordered to close for at least five years after a dog was attacked and killed while in its care.
According to a September 22 report from the Dayton Daily News, Destinee C. Javier, owner and operator of Back to Eden Animal Boarding in Monroe Township, pleaded guilty to one count of animal cruelty following an investigation by the Miami County Animal Shelter (MCAS).
As part of a plea agreement, Javier must close the boarding facility for a minimum of five years and obtain court approval before opening another boarding facility. She was also ordered to pay a $50 fine and court costs.
Dog Killed While in Boarding Facility's Care
MCAS launched an investigation on April 1, 2026, after learning that a dog named Hank had been attacked and killed by two other dogs while staying at Back to Eden Animal Boarding.
According to investigators, the two dogs escaped their kennels and attacked Hank. Animal control officers discovered damaged fencing and holes in the kennel enclosures, including an opening between Hank's kennel and the kennels housing the two dogs responsible for the attack.
A necropsy determined that Hank died from severe traumatic injuries consistent with a dog attack.
Additional Investigation Reveals Animal Welfare Concerns
A separate investigation began on September 12 after MCAS received an anonymous tip concerning two Great Pyrenees reportedly being kept outside in the rain.
During an inspection, Animal Control Officer Abbie Daugherty discovered multiple dogs inside the facility, several of which lacked available food and/or water.
The two Great Pyrenees, Icelyn and Thor, were found in an outdoor play yard. Icelyn was lying in a hole she had dug beside the building, underneath an overhang that appeared to provide some protection from the rain. A nearby bucket contained water that appeared green and stagnant.
Both dogs had significant matting, and Thor was seized due to the severity of his condition.
As part of the investigation, Javier agreed to surrender Thor and was given until September 25 to have Icelyn professionally groomed.
Under the plea agreement related to Hank's death, MCAS agreed not to pursue additional charges stemming from the September investigation.
The Responsibility of Animal Boarding Facilities
Animal boarding facilities are entrusted with the safety and well-being of pets while their families are away. This responsibility includes providing appropriate housing, supervision, food, water, and necessary veterinary care.
Following the investigations, MCAS Director Rob Craft emphasized the importance of protecting animals placed in boarding facilities.
"Boarding facilities take on a special responsibility because people are entrusting their animals to someone else for their care," Craft said.
The case highlights the importance of proper kennel maintenance, safe housing, and adequate supervision to prevent avoidable injuries and suffering.
How to Choose a Safe Boarding Facility for Your Pet
Before leaving a pet at a boarding facility, MCAS encourages owners to research the business and ask questions about its operations.
Pet owners should consider taking the following precautions:
Tour the facility. Ask to see where your pet will sleep, eat, and spend time outdoors. Look for clean, secure enclosures and appropriate shelter.
Ask about supervision. Find out how frequently animals are monitored and whether staff members are present overnight.
Understand safety procedures. Ask how the facility separates animals, prevents escapes, and handles interactions between dogs.
Review emergency protocols. Confirm what happens if an animal becomes injured or ill and how the facility contacts owners or obtains veterinary care.
Check reviews and policies. Research the facility's reputation and understand its requirements, procedures, and expectations before booking.
Taking these steps can help pet owners make informed decisions about who they trust with their animals.
Protecting Animals in Our Communities
The death of Hank and the conditions documented during the subsequent investigation serve as reminders of the importance of accountability in animal care.
At Ohio Animal Advocates (OAA), we believe every animal deserves humane treatment, safe living conditions, and protection from unnecessary suffering.
Animal cruelty and neglect can occur in a variety of settings, including facilities entrusted with caring for other people's pets. Reporting suspected neglect or unsafe conditions can help authorities investigate concerns and protect animals who may be at risk.
Together, we can help build a safer, more compassionate Ohio for animals.
Get Involved
1. If you suspect animal cruelty or neglect in your community, contact your local animal control agency or humane society. Providing detailed information about your concerns can help authorities determine whether an investigation is warranted. Find where to report animal cruelty by county on our Statewide Directory.
2. Help support increased penalties for animal cruelty by completing our action alert for Ohio Senate Bill 64. With your help, we can increase penalties for violating companion animal cruelty offenses and prohibit a felony animal abuser from owning a companion animal under certain circumstances.
3. Share this story and action alert with friends and family!
4. Subscribe to our e-newsletter to receive animal welfare related news and resources in Ohio straight to your inbox.
