Saratoga County District Attorney Brett Eby announced today that a Saratoga County Grand Jury has returned an indictment against Yvette Giovanni in connection with the investigation into the Time for Paws case.
The indictment charges Giovanni with Aggravated Cruelty to Animals, Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree, and 11 counts of Overdriving, Torturing, and Injuring Animals.
According to the allegations contained in the indictment and the investigation conducted by the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office in coordination with the Town of Halfmoon, Yvette Giovanni, the owner and operator of Time for Paws, is alleged to have knowingly maintained animals in conditions that posed a substantial risk to their health and safety. On July 7th and July 8th of 2025, multiple animals housed at the facility were allegedly confined in crates located in areas of excessive heat, without adequate ventilation, sufficient access to water, or appropriate means to cool themselves.
Investigators determined that several of the animals exhibited clear signs of distress consistent with heat exposure, including excessive panting, lethargy, and dehydration. It is further alleged that the conditions within the facility failed to meet minimum standards of care required for animals in a commercial daycare and boarding setting. As a result of these conditions, a French bulldog named Gus suffered fatal heat stroke. The death of Gus, along with the condition of the other animals present, forms the central basis of the allegations contained in the indictment.
“Saratoga County takes allegations of animal abuse extremely seriously,” said District Attorney Brett Eby. “Our office worked closely with the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office throughout this investigation, and both of our agencies have dedicated units that focus on protecting animals and ensuring that individuals who abuse them are held accountable. We remain committed to seeking justice in cases involving cruelty to animals.”
The prosecution of this matter is being handled by Special Victims Bureau Chief Rachael Phelan and Senior Assistant District Attorney Mary Northrup. The investigation was led by Saratoga County Sheriff’s Deputy Leah Howe and Animal Control Officer Victoria Hanna.
The indictment has been filed with Saratoga County Court, where the case will be presided over by the Honorable James R. Davis.