Investigation into Dog Deaths at Pawsitively Paradise in Palm City Continues: Sheriff’s Office Explores Options to Stop Business Owner

The Martin County Sheriff’s Office investigation into Pawsitively Paradise, a dog training facility in Palm City, continues to uncover troubling details. According to deputies, at least three dogs have died in the care of the facility since 2022, with two more deaths under investigation in the last two months.

The lack of regulation in the dog training industry has left many feeling powerless to intervene, as highlighted by a 2021 law that restricts code enforcement’s ability to shut down businesses like Pawsitively Paradise, despite multiple citations for improper care of animals.

State Rep. John Snyder has expressed a willingness to work with local leaders to potentially implement licensure requirements for dog trainers, acknowledging the need for more oversight in the industry. The county’s code enforcement has been directed to review existing legislation and ordinances in an effort to address the situation.

As the investigation unfolds, deputies are awaiting the results of necropsies that could determine whether criminal charges will be brought against the business owner, Nikki Camerlengo. Despite multiple allegations from families and the sheriff’s office, Camerlengo maintains her innocence and has refused to provide her side of the story to authorities.

The community is left grappling with the tragic loss of beloved pets and the need for stronger regulations to prevent similar incidents in the future. Stay tuned as WPTV continues to follow this developing story.