A Melton woman has been banned from owning animals for a decade after pleading guilty to 13 charges of animal cruelty at the Sunshine Magistrates’ Court on Thursday 27 November.
The 52-year-old was sentenced to an 18-month community corrections order with conviction and disqualified from owning or being in charge of any animals for 10 years, with the exception of one dog.
The court also approved monitoring provisions to ensure she complies with the ban.
RSPCA Victoria inspectors first attended the woman’s property following four reports for animal welfare concerns, where they discovered five dogs, 18 cats, 20 rats and 8 rabbits living in severely overcrowded and unhealthy conditions.
Many of the animals were underweight or emaciated and suffering from a range of preventable illnesses, including severe flea infestations, dental disease, intestinal parasites, ear infections, joint disease, respiratory illness and physical injuries.
Inspectors returned multiple times before executing a warrant to seize the animals, with an investigation later confirming the living environment directly contributed to the animals decline.
RSPA veterinarians stabilised and treated the seized animals, with each receiving ongoing care to support their recovery.
Magistrate Robinson told the court the woman had “narrowly avoided prison”.
“Had the accused not entered a plea of guilty on this day, a term of imprisonment would have been imposed,” he said.
RSPCA Victoria chief Inspector Michelle Green said the sentence reflected the scale and seriousness of the offending.
“The animals involved in this case endured prolonged pain, distress and disease as a result of the neglect,” she said.
“The need for veterinary care would have been evident to any reasonable person, and we’re grateful these animals had the chance to recover in safe and caring environments.”
Ms Green praised the work of senior inspector Sarah Gilbert and the wider inspectorate and veterinary teams, noting their “remarkable commitment”.
The offences fall under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986, which carries penalties over $50,000 or 12 months’ prison.
Animal welfare concerns can be reported at rspcavic.org/cruelty-report or by calling 03 9224 2222.
