WILBRAHAM, Mass. (WGGB) — The owner of a local pet grooming company will soon be heading to court.

The Massachusetts Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals confirms to abc40/fox6 that Sharon Kozik owner of Lotte’s Professional Dog Grooming faces charges of animal cruelty.

According to the MSPCA the charges come after Kozik allegedly hit a poodle on the head.   They say that dog later died.  Kozik will face a judge at Palmer District Court Monday morning.

While the investigation is on-going former customers of Lotte’s are coming forward.  Henry Santa’s two dogs went to the Wilbraham groomer three times.  He stopped taking them there after he notice something was different with them.

“They were very aggressive their eyes were red and they didn’t want to eat and they were like that for two days,” said Santa.

Henry Santa now takes his dogs elsewhere and says they are fine when they come back.  He adds the whole experience was a frightening one.

“You can’t tell what’s going on behind doors.  This goes for every groomer you can’t tell what’s going on with your dog,” said Santa.

Candy Lash of the Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society says word of mouth is the best way to find a good groomer.  She says you should also check with your pet’s veterinarian before leaving them at a groomer.

“You as a person should be asking the groomer what vet might they use if there is an emergency situation there so that the animal can be treated immediately,” said Lash.

Lash says ask for a tour of the facility to make sure it’s safe and clean.  If you have concerns once your pet returns from the groomer see your vet right away.

Representatives from Lotte’s declined our request for comment.