Nicola Peltz's Ex-Dog Groomer Slams Her For 'Comparative Negligence' In Pet Lawsuit

Nicola Peltz Beckham's legal battle over her late chihuahua, Nala, took a dramatic turn.

Jony Ceballos, the former groomer named in her lawsuit, is fighting back. Ceballos, who was put at the center of the controversy, is now shifting the blame to the dog owner and screaming "negligence."

Nicola Peltz Beckham filed the lawsuit in 2024, accusing HoundSpa of emotional distress after her pet dog, Nala's untimely passing. 

Peltz's former dog groomer is refusing to take the blame. Jony Ceballos, who previously worked for the mobile grooming company HoundSpa, is hitting back at Peltz's lawsuit, arguing that she failed to uphold her own responsibilities as a pet owner.

In a legal response, Ceballos' lawyers claim the lawsuit should be dismissed, arguing that the actress not only failed "to state a cause of action" but also did not fulfill her own obligations in the situation.

His legal team is now pointing the finger back at Peltz, insisting she bears "comparative negligence" in Nala's tragic passing. According to court records obtained by In Touch, Ceballos has denied all allegations, rejecting any suggestion that his actions led to the chihuahua's death.

Peltz doubled down in her legal battle over the heartbreaking loss of her beloved chihuahua, alleging the groomer had a history of concerning behavior with animals.

It is important to note that back in 2022, the 30-year-old claimed her brother and his girlfriend had a disturbing experience with Ceballos. She stated they reported their concerns to HoundSpa's owner, Deborah Gittleman, believing it would lead to Ceballos' removal.

However, despite alleged prior complaints about his handling of pets, Peltz was shocked to discover that he was still employed and was sent to her home in June 2024 to groom five of her dogs.

According to Peltz's lawsuit, Nala entered the mobile grooming van as a "happy, healthy dog, but returned injured and in severe physical distress— breathing heavily and wheezing, with her chest pulsating." 

The situation escalated quickly as Peltz rushed Nala to a veterinarian just 15 minutes away. Despite being placed on oxygen, the chihuahua's condition rapidly worsened. Within just two hours of leaving the grooming van, Nala tragically passed away.

Peltz, who says she was left emotionally devastated after watching her beloved pet die, is pushing for both compensatory and punitive damages in her lawsuit.

The Blast reported that the dog mom intends to donate any punitive damages awarded in the case to a dog rescue organization. She described Nala as more than just a pet; she was like a child to her.

As to why she chose the legal route, Peltz shared that she initially took to social media to share her sorrow and raise awareness. However, the socialite knew she had to take legal action after hearing from other pet owners with similar experiences.

The model shared the tragic news on June 16, 2024, revealing the pain she endured since her pet's sudden passing. "This has been the hardest month of my life. I can't even find the words to describe my heartbreak on so many levels," Peltz wrote. 

Peltz explained that she decided to share her story to prevent similar tragedies from happening to other dogs, making it clear that Nala's life was cut short by circumstances she never expected.

The actress also reflected on her deep bond with Nala, describing her as her "beautiful queen" and a loyal companion for nine years. In the closing lines of her heartfelt tribute, she urged pet owners to be cautious about who they entrust with their animals.

Before facing the heartbreak of losing her beloved Nala, The Blast reported that the Easter holiday in 2023 was extra special for Peltz and Beckham, as it also coincided with their first wedding anniversary. 

Beckham marked the day with a heartfelt Instagram tribute, sharing a romantic snapshot of himself dipping his wife backward for a passionate kiss. In his caption, the 25-year-old poured his heart out, calling Peltz his "best friend" and expressing gratitude for their life together. 

The aspiring chef also shared his dreams for the future, writing, "Here's to many more years, baby xx I love you so so so much x here's to having as much fun when we are old as we are now young."

Peltz wasted no time responding to her husband's touching message, gushing in the comments, "I love you soooo much!! This is so cute!!! I love being your wife."

Which way will Nicola Peltz Beckham's lawsuit swing?