In August 2025, a 2‑year‑old show dog named Reign met a tragic end after being left in a hot car.
The Tragic Loss
Reign was a decorated show dog who had earned acclaim in the canine competition world. The family’s grief began the moment investigators discovered the dog unresponsive in the vehicle’s back seat. “It’s hard,” Wendy Buterbaugh said. “I keep waiting for it to get better and it doesn’t.”
The Investigation
The Pennsylvania SPCA led the inquiry into Reign’s death. According to the complaint, the dog was left in the back of a car on a hot summer day with doors and windows closed and no air conditioning. “Reign deserved more,” Wendy said. “She mattered. She mattered not just in that show world, she mattered to us as a family member. She mattered.”
The Handler’s Role
Carissa Shimpeno, the professional handler hired by the Buterbaughs, is now facing charges. Before Reign’s death, Shimpeno had driven to the Buterbaughs’ home in Chester County after leaving a dog show to help her own dog give birth. She allegedly admitted to investigators that she had forgotten Reign was in the car and left her in the vehicle. She only realized the dog was still inside when her husband returned hours later.
Legal Consequences
Shimpeno is charged with animal cruelty and neglect. “You can’t just leave a dog in the back of a car,” Chester County District Attorney Christopher de Barrena‑Sarobe said. “These charges reflect that she was at least reckless or negligent in her care of the animal and as a result, she is facing multiple misdemeanor counts because of that.” Shimpeno’s attorney wrote, “The suggestion that Ms. Shimpeno acted with cruelty toward an animal she loved and nurtured is both painful and false.” The attorney added, “She has waived arraignment and looks forward to the opportunity to clear her name in court.”
SPCA Statement
Courtney McGinn, the SPCA’s Director of Humane Litigation, told NBC10, “Incredibly frustrating.” She added, “It’s 100% preventable. While I do understand mistakes happen, there is no mistake when an animal is dead by the results of your inaction.” The SPCA’s findings highlight a clear lapse in animal safety protocols.
AKC Response
The American Kennel Club confirmed that its investigation into Reign’s death is concluded. In an email, the AKC wrote that its policy prevents it from announcing any disciplinary action until the appeal or trial board process is fully resolved if Shimpeno requests either option. Once the discipline is finalized, it will be made public. Shimpeno has not been able to exhibit at AKC events or use any other AKC services since the incident.
Community Action
The Buterbaughs, together with Reign’s breeders Colleen Nicholson and Cindy Kelso, have turned their grief into advocacy. Nicholson said, “So we can prevent another dog going through this.” “Because anyone that owns a dog has to be able to put their dog in Reign’s situation.” They also created bracelets reminding people to take their pets out of cars during extreme heat.
Family’s Perspective
Wendy expressed anger at what she perceives as an avoidable tragedy. “Some people are like, ‘She was only a dog.’ She was like a child to me.” “She was everything. And I’m robbed of the best years of her life. And I get really mad when people call it an accident or a mistake. Because I feel choices went into it.”
Advocacy for Pet Safety
Mark Buterbaugh emphasized the need for accountability. “There needs to be accountability and that has to come from the AKC, the American Kennel Club.” He added, “It should have never happened and I think raising the awareness of the safety and concern of these dogs is critical.” The family’s mission is to ensure that no other pet faces a similar fate.
The Aftermath
Reign’s death has left a void in the local dog‑show community. Breeders, handlers, and owners are now more vigilant about vehicle safety. The incident has prompted discussions about best practices for transporting dogs in hot weather.
The Legal Process
Shimpeno’s case will proceed through the court system. The charges are misdemeanor counts that reflect negligence in animal care. The outcome will set a precedent for similar cases involving pet safety.
The Breeders’ Commitment
Colleen Nicholson and Cindy Kelso have pledged to educate other breeders on the importance of monitoring transportation conditions. Their goal is to prevent any future incidents that could lead to loss of life.
The Family’s Resolve
Wendy remains determined to turn her loss into a positive force. “If Reign can save one life, it means that her death will mean something instead of just tragedy.” “If she can save just one.”
The Community’s Response
Local animal welfare groups have joined the conversation, offering resources and support for pet owners. The community is rallying to adopt stricter guidelines for pet transport.
The Broader Implication
Reign’s case underscores the critical need for vigilance when pets are transported in vehicles. The legal and regulatory frameworks are being scrutinized to prevent future tragedies.
Key Takeaways
- Reign, a 2‑year‑old show dog, died after being left in a hot car in August 2025.
- Handler Carissa Shimpeno faces animal cruelty and neglect charges.
- The Pennsylvania SPCA and AKC are investigating, with the AKC pending final disciplinary action.
The family’s advocacy highlights the importance of pet safety and the legal responsibilities of handlers and owners alike.
