Hampton Golden Retriever Death: Groomer Charged

HAMPTON, NH -- A Hampton dog groomer was recently arrested on animal cruelty charges after police said she caused the death of a golden retriever by leaving it locked in a cage, tied up and with a hair dryer on. Beth Bessemer (pictured), 57, was charged in connection with the dog's death June 21. She turned herself in a warrant last week.

"Bessemer negligently permitted or caused a golden retriever that was in her possession or custody to be subjected to unnecessary suffering of any kind by leaving the dog unattended in a crate with a heated dryer blowing on him, and with a noose around his neck, which caused (the dog's) death," Hampton police said in a statement.

Bessemer was released on bond. She will be arraigned October 30 in Seabrook District Court.

"As part of her conditions of bail, Bessemer has been prohibited from contact with any other person’s pets," Hampton police added.

Photo credit: Hampton Police Department