Texas Dog Groomer Facing Felony Animal Cruelty Charges After Fatal Negligence Claims in Goldendoodle Death

Texas groomer Lisa Pfund faces felony animal cruelty charges after a Goldendoodle died from neck injuries during a session at PetSuites League City.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 2, 2026, 4:45 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from FOX 26 Houston

A Tragic Outcome at a League City Grooming Facility

The legal consequences of a fatal pet grooming incident have culminated in the arrest of a Seabrook resident on serious animal cruelty charges. Lisa Pfund was taken into custody on March 30 at a motel in Webster, following an investigation into the death of a Goldendoodle that occurred earlier this year. Authorities allege that Pfund's actions during a routine session at PetSuites League City directly led to the animal’s demise. The arrest follows weeks of attempts by law enforcement to locate the suspect, who is now facing a third degree felony charge as the community grapples with the loss of a local family pet.

Surveillance Footage Reveals Moments of Fatal Distress

The investigation was significantly aided by surveillance video from January 30, which captured the final moments of the dog, named Lincoln. According to police reports, the footage shows the animal becoming visibly startled by a hair dryer while secured to a grooming table by a collar. In its panic, the dog spun more than 20 times before falling off the edge of the table. The records indicate that Lincoln remained suspended by his collar for several moments. Investigators pointed out that Pfund allegedly failed to intervene or provide assistance before the animal became unresponsive, noting that the collar was applied so tightly it required cutting to be removed.

Medical Findings Confirm Severe Physical Trauma

A subsequent autopsy performed on the Goldendoodle provided a clear medical explanation for the tragedy. The examination determined that Lincoln suffered two dislocated vertebrae in his neck, a direct result of the physical strain endured during the incident on the grooming table. Police have characterized the death as a product of extreme negligence. The findings from the medical examiner, combined with witness interviews and digital evidence, allowed prosecutors to move forward with the felony charge of cruelty to a non livestock animal. The severity of the neck trauma underscores the physical force involved in the fatal event.