WARNING: This article contains details some may find disturbing.
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — A 49-year-old Springfield man has pleaded not guilty to charges that he performed unlicensed surgery on pit bulls and American bulldog puppies, which he breeds and sells out of his apartment.
The Republican reports that state police and the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals investigated complaints that Nelson Rios had been cutting ears and tails on dogs.
One neighbor reported watching a puppy scream because it was not given anesthesia while getting its ears trimmed.
Rios also allegedly told a an undercover investigator he charged $150 for ear cropping and $20 for vaccinations – services that only veterinarians can provide,
When asked why he stockpiled medications, vaccines and surgical tools, Rios said wanted to be prepared in case of an accident.
He is free without bail.
