Louisiana boy loses beloved puppy while in care of local dog trainer

ST. MARTIN PARISH, La. — September 3, 2025 — Shamieh Law, a client-focused personal injury law firm representing communities in Louisiana, Texas, and Arkansas, filed a lawsuit today on behalf of Jefferson Davis Parish resident Kelly Sickey and her minor son, M.S., against Brandon T. Menard, his dog training business Cypress Bottom Retrievers, LLC, and additional parties, alleging negligence in the death of the family’s one-year-old Labrador retriever, “Dusty.”

According to the complaint filed in the 16th Judicial District Court of Louisiana (Case No. 95596), Dusty was picked up by Menard in December 2024 for boarding and training services at Cypress Bottom Retrievers in St. Martinville, Louisiana. The family paid $750 per month for training, food, and care. On August 9, 2025, Menard notified the family that Dusty had collapsed and later died before reaching a veterinary hospital.

A veterinarian’s initial report noted hemorrhagic fluid around Dusty’s heart and recommended a necropsy at Louisiana State University (LSU). LSU’s Louisiana Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory found Dusty suffered from widespread bacterial infection causing severe inflammation in his chest, lungs, heart, and abdomen. The findings indicated that Dusty endured significant suffering before his death.

The complaint alleges that Menard and Cypress Bottom Retrievers failed to provide adequate care, safe housing, clean food and water, or timely communication regarding Dusty’s condition. The lawsuit further claims that Joseph Dale and Shari Menard, along with Kirk D. Guilbeau, shared responsibility for the conditions where the dogs were kept and failed to prevent harm.

The suit seeks damages for emotional distress, loss of companionship, medical and related expenses, and other losses sustained by the family.

“This case is about accountability,” said attorney Max Guthrie of Shamieh Law, who represents the family. “No pet owner should have to suffer the anguish of losing a beloved companion due to negligence. Dusty’s death was preventable, and we are seeking justice for M.S. and his family.”

The lawsuit also raises concerns that other dogs may have suffered harm while under Menard’s care. In addition to the lawsuit, Ms. Sickey has filed complaints with the St. Martin Sheriff’s office and Animal Control to report the incident.

About Shamieh Law

Shamieh Law is a personal injury law firm committed to treating clients like family while delivering powerful results in and out of the courtroom. Known for its relentless advocacy, compassionate service, and community involvement, the firm has built a reputation for securing justice for victims while giving back through local charities and outreach initiatives in the communities it serves. With offices in Texas, Louisiana and Arkansas, Shamieh Law has recovered over $200 million on behalf of its clients throughout the South.