Video of pet sitter allegedly beating dog sparks Warren police investigation

Pet sitter who allegedly beat dog on camera under investigation by Warren police

The woman, a pet sitter, can be seen smacking Frankie in the face and kicking him. Frankie’s owner – Bobbie Brody – says she’s used the same sitter four times.

WARREN, Mich. (FOX 2) - A trusted pet sitter – caught on camera allegedly abusing the dog she was getting paid to take care of.

What we know:

First off, the dog named Frankie is okay – and back with his owners tonight.

We are going to show you some of that video – but it is hard to watch.

Police say this happened last week in Warren in the area of 14 Mile Road and Mound.

The woman, a pet sitter, can be seen smacking Frankie in the face and kicking him.

The 6-year-old pit bull snaps at her, and the pet sitter then screams at a nearby child for the leash. Then, she manhandles him some more.

Frankie’s owner – Bobbie Brody – says she’s used the same sitter four times.

Brody said she found her on Rover.com and she had good reviews.

"It was devastating, it was absolutely devastating that somebody we entrusted to take care of him, was actually abusing him in such a vile manner," said Brody. "It was heartbreaking."

Now – because of the video, Warren police is on the case.

"Do better," said Lt. John Gajewski. "I think this is one of those situations where, as an adult, we can do better. Everybody gets frustrated, but violence is never the answer."

Frankie’s owner had to get back quickly from a trip after that video was sent to her from a friend after it was posted on social media.

What we don't know:

She says Frankie – didn’t have any injuries, but it is very possible this pet sitter could be charged.

The pet sitter is not being named due to the ongoing investigation.

What they're saying:

Pet-sitting app Rover released a statement after this incident:

"At Rover, safety is a top priority and we take any reports or concerns of animal mistreatment or abuse extremely seriously. 

"While this stay was not booked on our platform, limiting the information we were able to gather about this incident, our 24/7 Trust & Safety team conducted a thorough investigation with the information available to us as soon as these allegations were brought to our attention. We immediately worked to remove any other pets booked through Rover from the sitter’s care. The account of the sitter involved has been deactivated and we have reached out to the pet parent to offer our support. 

"Our team stands ready to assist law enforcement in their investigation to the best of our ability should they reach out."

Bobbie Brody and Frankie, left. Video still of the pet sitter allegedly abusing Frankie.