Largo, Fla. – A local pet owner is leading a push for new state requirements for pet groomers after his 10‑year‑old Great Pyrenees, Rilee, died during a grooming session at Fluffy Puppies of Pinellas in October 2025.
Neil Rubenstein says he dropped Rilee off for a routine grooming on Oct. 18, 2025. Less than an hour later he was called back to find the dog unresponsive on the grooming table. “Rilee was laying on her side with her tongue out, and she had already expired,” Rubenstein recalled.
Rubenstein obtained surveillance footage from the grooming area and, after consulting a veterinarian, believes the restraint around Rilee’s neck was too tight and that no first‑aid or resuscitation was attempted. A necropsy has not been performed, so the exact cause of death remains unconfirmed.
Local citation and response
Pinellas Animal Services cited Fluffy Puppies of Pinellas for “Neglect – failure to provide humane care.” The business entered a no‑contest plea and was fined $148. The shop has not responded to requests for comment.
Proposed “Rilee’s Law”
Rubenstein has teamed with the Animal Justice Task Force, led by founder Elizabeth Olson, to draft legislation that would require all Florida pet groomers to complete basic emergency‑training, including CPR and a written emergency protocol. Olson notes that Florida currently does not license or certify pet groomers statewide and has no uniform emergency‑training standards.
Veterinarian‑trained groomer Jennifer Harmon, who has operated Pet Styles By Jennifer for 46 years, supports the idea. “I think there should be requirements. I think there should be CPR training. There should be an emergency protocol that all staff should be aware of and be ready to enact,” she said.
Calls for oversight
Rubenstein also urges the creation of a governing body to regulate the grooming industry and oversee compliance with any new standards.
He now cares for another Great Pyrenees, Sophie, and says he stays with her during grooming appointments to monitor the process.
Next steps
Olson has launched a public survey to gauge support for the proposal and plans to present the draft to Pinellas County officials before seeking state legislative sponsors.
The effort reflects a broader concern among Florida pet owners about the safety of unregulated grooming services and aims to protect families and their beloved animals.
Original reporting: Tampa Bay Florida News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
