Sign Petition: Employee Kicks and Hits Dog at Dog Day Care Causing Death
Animal Victory.org
October 20, 2025
Ballard, Washington -- A Labrador retriever named Mitch suffered devastating injuries after a staff member at the Lazy Dog Crazy Dog day care facility viciously kicked and punched him.
According to charging documents, 20-year-old Dejean Cornelius Bowens attacked the boarded dog, causing fatal injuries, on August 3.
Bowens became irate after the 6-year-old dog knocked something over.
Investigators say Bowens repeatedly kicked and punched Mitch, continuing the brutal attack even after the terrified dog tried to hide under a table.
Over an hour later, when it became clear that Mitch was in distress, Bowens finally took him to an emergency veterinarian.
But too much time had passed, and the injuries proved fatal; Mitch died from internal bleeding caused by a ruptured kidney.
Bowens was "fired immediately" from his position at the dog day care facility.
He was formerly charged on September 29.
On October 13, Bowens pleaded not guilty; he is due back in court on November 26 for a pre-trial hearing at 1 PM.
Animal cruelty convictions carry a maximum penalty of five years in jail and a fine.
Mitch's death was cruel and senseless.
This innocent, sweet dog was attacked and terrorized by a man who was tasked with providing him with care.
If you are as outraged as we are, please add your name to the petition and help Animal Victory get justice for Mitch.
https://animalvictory.org/petition/heartbreaking-employee-kicks-and-hits-dog-at-dog-daycare-causing-death/