A Brevard County pet store is taking heat over social media claims it's mistreating dogs up for sale.

  • Pets Around the World cited for not having water for puppies
  • Complaints against the business on social media, to animal services
  • Owner says he is working with animal services to come up with solutions

There are a slew of complaints to Brevard Animal Services about Pets Around the World on West New Haven Boulevard near West Melbourne.

Some, like Hannah Martin, are taking to social media and posting pictures of several dogs in a partially-shaded, fenced-in, concrete-floored area on the side of the building.

There empty water bowls, outside in 90+ degree heat.

Martin and others are very concerned.

"They looked overheated, they looked like they had been sitting outside for a while," Martin said.

"They were all laying there panting," said Andrea Shackles, who took her own pictures.

Martin's post has more than 3,000 shares, garnering hundreds of comments for authorities to do something.

Animal services paid a visit Tuesday and cited owner Greg Doherty for the lack of water -- a $300 fine.

Officers also returned Wednesday to follow up, and offer solutions.

"We are trying to figure out what code enforcement would allow to put more shade, but allow me to have sunshine for the puppies," Doherty said outside his store.

Doherty said he needs to put the young dogs outside to get sun in order to grow.

He also says the water main broke at the business, and the water is not currently working. But the dogs had some 4-5 gallons of water available.

He says he's frustrated with the social media posts.

"If you want to know what is going on, or need information, come down and talk to us. Don't just do drive-by photo shoots and make accusations that have no basis," said Doherty.

Animal services says the dozens of dogs at the business all have the proper paperwork and are in good health.

Doherty said he's been in the pet shop business for three decades, with the past eight at this location.

One other similar complaint has been filed during that time.

District 5 County Commissioner Kristine Isnardi sent an email to concerned residents, stressing that animal services is doing everything they can to make sure the owner gets his act together, or is shut down completely.