TX ‘Happy Paws’ Groomer ‘Leo Nava’ Arrested Over Shi-Poo Puppy Death During ‘Aggressive Grooming’

EL PASO COUNTY, TX. (THECOUNT) — Leobardo Nava, of El Paso, Texas, was arrested and charged with Animal Cruelty after his aggressive grooming led to the death of a Shi-Poo puppy at Happy Paws Dog Grooming in El Paso County.

“Leo” Nava, 31, was arrested Friday following an investigation in which authorities said evidence was found to indicate that the 16-week-old, Luccas, was handled roughly during his grooming and was grabbed forcefully by the neck and went limp.

Authorities said Nava then continued to aggressively groom Luccas.

Investigators told KTSM 9 News that Luccas demonstrated signs of pain and lethargy upon being picked up. The puppy was unable to eat or drink and cried out in pain when he attempted to walk.

Luccas died a short time later after returning home with its owner.

An examination by a veterinarian found that Luccas’ lungs were full of blood which indicated he died of a pulmonary edema caused by the stress of the incident.

Nava was arrested on Friday and has been charged with one count of Cruelty to Animals.

Police said he was booked into the El Paso County Detention Facility on this, as well as, Possession of Marijuana and outstanding traffic warrants.

DEVELOPING::

Geo quick facts: El Paso County is the westernmost county in the U.S. state of Texas. As of the 2010 census, the population was 800,647, making it the sixth-most populous county in the state of Texas. Its seat is the city of El Paso, the sixth-most populous city in Texas and the 22nd-most populous city in the United States – Wikipedia.