SINGAPORE — A heartbreaking tragedy at Pawsome Pet Grooming Salon in Tanjong Katong has left the local community in shock after a three-year-old poodle named Buddy died during a grooming session on October 30, 2025. The incident has sparked allegations of negligence and ignited a nationwide debate about animal welfare standards and accountability in the pet care industry.
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What Happened
According to Tanish Dhillon, Buddy’s owner, the poodle began showing signs of distress while being groomed. Dhillon claims that Buddy was left unattended in an enclosure despite his cries for help.
In a police report filed shortly after the incident, Dhillon accused the salon of gross negligence, stating that employees failed to respond quickly enough to Buddy’s suffering.
Dhillon also released partial CCTV footage showing the poodle struggling, crying, and screaming for approximately 11 to 12 minutes before becoming unresponsive. The footage further shows that Buddy was left unattended for an extended period even after his collapse.
Who Was Buddy?
Buddy was a beloved three-year-old poodle known for his playful and affectionate personality. His tragic death has devastated his family and moved countless pet lovers across Singapore.
To his owner, Tanish Dhillon, Buddy was more than a pet — he was “family.” The incident has now become a symbol of the emotional bond between pets and their owners and a call to action for stricter regulations in the pet care sector.
“Buddy was my baby,” Dhillon said tearfully in a social media post. “He trusted them, and they failed him. I won’t rest until there is justice for him.”
Investigation and Legal Proceedings
In response to public backlash, Pawsome Pet Grooming Salon issued a statement expressing deep condolences for Buddy’s death. The salon claimed that its staff acted immediately once Buddy showed signs of distress and that proper procedures were followed.
However, Dhillon has disputed these claims, citing CCTV evidence that allegedly shows significant delays in response.
Authorities have since launched an official investigation, reviewing all available footage and witness statements. Animal welfare organizations have also joined the call for a thorough probe, demanding that the government establish clear safety protocols and certification standards for grooming salons.
Public and Social Media Reactions
Buddy’s death has triggered widespread outrage on social media. Animal rights advocates, pet owners, and concerned citizens have united under hashtags like #JusticeForBuddy and #PetSafetySG, demanding accountability and reform.
“This is absolutely heartbreaking. No animal should have to suffer like this,” one user wrote. “We need stricter regulations and trained staff to protect our furry companions.”
Another supporter commented, “Tanish, your loss is unimaginable. Buddy’s story has touched us all — we will stand with you until justice is served.”
What Happens Next
Authorities continue to investigate the case, reviewing evidence and interviewing witnesses. Pressure is mounting on Pawsome Pet Grooming to release the full CCTV footage to ensure transparency and public trust.
Meanwhile, Tanish Dhillon remains committed to seeking justice for Buddy. She has vowed to campaign for stronger animal welfare laws to prevent such tragedies from happening again.
Buddy’s death has become a wake-up call for the pet care industry — and for pet owners who entrust their animals to professional services.
This story may be updated as more information becomes available.