NORTH SMITHFIELD – In the latest news in the ongoing saga on a North Smithfield-based pet spa, 15 cats and one dog were seized this week after they were found neglected at the facility.
According to a news release from the Rhode Island Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the animals were recovered from Doggie Styles Pet Spas after they were found without adequate care.
The groomer at 21 Sayles Hill Road, owner John Froais, 55, has been in the news since January, when he was arrested by Rhode Island State Police following the death of four puppies in his care.
Earlier this month, police issued a warrant for his arrest following seizure of six French bulldog puppies from his spa for failure to get proper medical treatment for the animals.
According to a release from the SPCA, the organization worked with state police, the state veterinarian and North Smithfield animal control to execute a search warrant at the business on Friday, June 19. The group found the 15 cats “in a communal living environment with litter boxes overflowing with feces. Due to the high ammonia count in the room, caused by the accumulation of urine, the air quality was an immediate hazard to animals and humans. The one dog in the location was found secured in a kennel with accumulated feces and urine, as well as found to be lacking access to food and water.”
The 16 pets were seized and examined by a veterinarian. None are currently available for adoption.
An arrest warrant has been issued for Froais and the SPCA is offering a $500 reward for information leading to his arrest.
Anyone with information is asked to call special agent Earl Newman, (401) 438-8150, ext. 2.
