A mother and daughter who run a dog training facility in Louisiana are facing charges after a video of their controversial methods went viral, according to authorities.

Tina Frey, 52, and her daughter, Victoria Brimer, 21, own and operate the Cypress Arrow Kennel & K9 Academy.

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The Rapides Parish Sheriff's Office said they received complaints about animal cruelty at the business.

Police said video was taken of a lesson that reportedly shows Frey "striking a Cane Corso dog on the head with a riding crop."

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Frey's attorney, Brad Drell, claims she is an "expert" trainer who has never hurt or injured an animal.

He also argued that the breed of dog is well over 100 pounds it can potentially be dangerous to humans if not trained properly.

The video circulating of Ms. Frey using a squirt [a short whip] on [the dog called] Fenixx creates a false impression that dogs are being injured," Drell said. "While the video is disturbing for many to watch, what needs to be understood is that Fenixx at the time was attempting to chew through a leash, which would have allowed Fenixx to bite either Ms. Frey or her daughter. "{/blockquote}
In the footage, Drell added, both Frey and Fennixx can be seen using the squirt on themselves, as well.
While the quirt makes some noise, it is flexible and not painful," he said. "While I understand that many people feel, and some quite strongly, that the use of the quirt is not what they would do to correct a dog, the use of the quirt is not inhumane under the law. Fenixx was in no way injured, as is shown in the video."{/blockquote}
Police said the arrests were still celebrated by many animal and rescue organizations that shared the video online as a warning to pet owners.
Frey and Brimer have each been charged with two counts of aggravated cruelty to animals. They were both released on a $10,000 bond, but police said the investigation is still active, and more charges could be filed.
“I want to thank the public for bearing with us while we conducted a complete and thorough investigation into these allegations” said Sheriff Mark Wood. “I would also like to commend our Animal Control Section and our detectives in their investigation of this incident and to staying the course, following the evidence where it leads and not bending to pressure of a quick arrest” said Sheriff Mark Wood. “We always take these animal complaints seriously as we do all crimes, but we also have to investigate and make sure the alleged crime fits the law.”