Danielle dropped off her dog at the dog salon for a much-needed makeover.
Tragically, upon returning an hour later to retrieve her pet, her English bulldog Scruffle had passed away.
“She was like a little baby to me,” shared Danielle DiNapoli with TODAY.
In December 2017, Danielle DiNapoli faced this heartbreaking incident.
Her beloved companion Scruffles unexpectedly passed away shortly after being left at the dog salon.
The incident gained widespread attention in the United States, leaving Danielle devastated as she spoke about her loss on national television.
“She was like a little baby to me,” expressed Danielle to TODAY.
She had entrusted her dog to the care of the PetSmart dog salon, the nation’s largest chain of such facilities, after informing the groomers of Scruffles’ needs.
Why the caution?
https://www.facebook.com/justiceforscruffles/photos/a.157786821519393/184233135541428/?type=3
Scruffles, an eight-year-old English bulldog, occasionally suffered from stress and panic attacks, common issues in breeds with short noses and wrinkled faces like English bulldogs.
This raised concerns for Danielle when leaving her beloved canine companion.
https://www.facebook.com/justiceforscruffles/photos/a.157786821519393/157786804852728/?type=3
As per Danielle, the salon used a hairdryer on her dog, contrary to their own protocols. She has since lodged a complaint.
“I hope she didn’t suffer. But I think she did, because she died so quickly, she must have been very scared,” Danielle disclosed to TODAY.
The precise cause of Scruffle’s death remains ambiguous. Typically, English bulldogs have a lifespan of about 6 years.
PetSmart released a statement announcing an ongoing investigation.
“We extend our condolences for the loss of Scruffles. While a comprehensive inquiry is underway, it seems our staff adhered to all protocols and procedures in caring for this bulldog,” noted NY Post.
Regardless of the cause, it is a tragic occurrence, and our hearts go out to the owner.
Scruffles now has a memorial page on Facebook where more than 10,000 people have shown their support under the name “Justice for Scruffles.”
Rest in peace, dear Scruffles!
