A routine visit to a groomer proved deadly for a 6-year-old terrier, who was euthanized because of injuries he suffered at the business, according to the New Jersey SPCA. Now the business is facing animal cruelty charges.
Ozzie was dropped off at Furever Friends on North Avenue in Cranford last month to be groomed. Hours later, the groomer called Ozzie's owner and said he was all set to go home. But the owner was shocked to find Ozzie was hurt and had to be carried out by staff.
"He injured his back or broke his leg," the staff said, according to the owner.
Ozzie was rushed to Garden State Veterinary Services in Iselin, where an examination showed he was "acutely paralyzed in the hind end [...] with deep pain in the hind end."
The dog's regular veterinarian reported him to be in excellent health with no history of any issues prior to his trip to the groomer, the SPCA said. In the end, Ozzie was humanely euthanized as a result of his injuries.
The SPCA has issued several summonses to the grooming business. Violations include causing the death of a living animal and failure to provide necessary care to a living animal. The penalties carry up to $7,000 in fines.
The grooming business and their attorney have refused to comment on who groomed Ozzie.
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The summonses are scheduled to be heard in Cranford Municipal Court on July 20.
New Jersey currently doesn't require licensing for a groomer, according to the SPCA. A law is pending in the legislature -- the Pet Groomer's Licensing Act, or "Bijou's Law" -- after another dog also died at the hands of a groomer.
