Kiki Sutherland was caught on camera hauling dogs around a garden in Monymusk, gripping a Dachshund-type dog by the scruff and roughly handling a Spaniel by the back of its neck.
The disturbing footage was shared publicly earlier this week, sparking outrage.
No licence for boarding animals
Aberdeenshire Council confirmed Sutherland did not hold a licence for boarding animals at her property.
Following an investigation, the council issued a warning letter demanding she stop any commercial animal boarding immediately. The Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA) is continuing its own inquiry into the incident.
Owner left horrified
The owner of the two-year-old Spaniel, Mark Lawrie, described feeling "horrified" after watching the clip. He had trusted Sutherland to care for his dog, Buddy, who she looked after for free. "Buddy is gentle and loving, she didn’t need to be so forceful," he said.
The case highlights the importance of licensed care and proper treatment of pets entrusted to others.