The Nassau County SPCA says a pet store owner has been arrested and is accused of torturing and injuring animals.

The Nassau County SPCA responded to a complaint on Jan. 30 at The Puppy Store in Merrick.

According to investigators, they observed a cage in the basement with a 6-month-old Labrador retriever unable to walk.

"This dog couldn't get up or couldn't walk at all," says Gary Rogers, of the Nassau SPCA.

The dog was transported by Nassau County detectives to a veterinarian for immediate care.
 
Nassau County SPCA detectives conducted an investigation and arrested Robert Lawrence, 40, of Woodmere, for failure to provide veterinary care to a dog at his store.

Lawrence faces charges of torturing and injuring animals and failing to provide proper sustenance.

News 12 reached out to Lawrence’s attorney who said “it was a poor investigation and Lawrence is looking forward to having his day in court.”

The SPCA says the puppy is undergoing rehab and will eventually be placed in a loving home.

The SPCA also says this case has been reported to the state Department of Agriculture and Lawrence may have his license to sell pets revoked.