Raleigh, N.C. — A routine inspection by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Animal Welfare Section has resulted in multiple violations and civil penalties for Classy Critters Pet Resort and Spa, a licensed boarding kennel owned and operated by Pamela Byars.
On August 6, 2025, veterinary program specialists Christie Shore and Chris Bradley conducted a Facility Compliance Inspection at the kennel. According to the inspection report, the facility was cited for several violations of state administrative code related to record-keeping, facility maintenance, animal care, and incident reporting.
Inspectors found that the kennel failed to properly document the entry and release of dogs, did not maintain accurate medication records, and did not log the escape of a dog named Kota that occurred on July 30. The kennel also did not notify state authorities about the escape within the required 48 hours. The report stated that Kota was struck by a car after escaping, sustaining minor injuries and causing a traffic accident.
Additional violations included improper cleaning of animal enclosures, inadequate fencing, damaged building materials accessible to animals, lack of proper drainage in outdoor exercise yards, and failure to maintain current agreements for housing dogs together. Inspectors also noted that the owner had not been fully truthful regarding kennel equipment, specifically locks intended to secure enclosures.
Several of the issues cited in the August inspection had been previously noted in earlier reports, including those from October 2023 and March 2025.
Following the inspection, the state assessed $1,900 in civil penalties against the kennel. The fines covered violations such as failure to maintain medication records, failure to properly document animal escapes, improper cleaning practices, and inadequate kennel construction.
In addition to the fines, the kennel received a written warning for other violations, including improper storage of clean bedding, standing water in exercise yards, and damaged wood in door frames.
Officials with the Animal Welfare Section stated that any future violations could be considered willful and may result in suspension or revocation of the facility’s license, as well as civil penalties of up to $5,000 per violation under state law.
Classy Critters Pet Resort and Spa remains licensed but will be required to address the cited violations to maintain compliance with North Carolina’s Animal Welfare Act.
