Dog groomers not regulated by state

WILBRAHAM, Mass. (WWLP) - A 22News I-Team follow-up tonight.

Lots of people have been questioning why the dog groomer accused of killing a poodle is allowed to continue doing business.

You've heard of the state suspending someone's license, forcing them to stop doing business but that's not the case with dog groomers, they're not licensed at all.

Sharon Kozik, the owner of Lotte's Professional Dog Groomers in Wilbraham, is at the center of controversy, facing animal abuse charges for allegedly killing a poodle.

As the law takes its course, some take issue with business continuing as usual at Lotte's.

"It's just unbelievable and I don't think she should be able to keep her business open," said Jacqueline Ouimette, Wilbraham.

"Would you bring your kids to a daycare where the kids been hit? Doesn't seem to make a lot of sense," said Kevin Conboy, Wilbraham.

MSPCA Officer Christine Allenberg told 22News dog groomers aren't regulated by the state.

"There are quite a few trades in business in Massachusetts that require licenses in the state, dog grooming is not one of them, you don't need any special training to be a dog groomer," Allenberg said.

Pamela Beall, the secretary for the wilbraham board of selectman, told the 22News I-Team, without permits and licensing requirements, the town also has no jurisdiction over groomers.  

The Lopez's family dog Rusty died at Lotte's on November 26th.

According to court documents obtained by the 22News I-Team, when police told Kozik that the dog had skull fractures, she apparently told police, she hit the dog. When police asked why, she allegedly said she had a spat with her husband earlier that week and it just happened.

On Monday, Kozik's attorney Robert Murphy pleaded not guilty on her behalf.

Loyal Lotte's customers say innocent until proven guilty.

"We don't really know the whole story as to what happened. So, I think until it all comes on the table then we shouldn't judge," said Lea Renee Roy, Palmer.

"She hasn't been proved guilty yet and yeah I think she should keep her business open," added Marie Auclair, Springfield.

Kozik is due back in court in January.