The RSPCA has successfully prosecuted a Melton woman for animal cruelty after her dogs were starved over a prolonged period.
In 2022, RSPCA Victoria received a report from a community member about an underweight dog on the woman’s property.
Despite RSPCA inspectors attending on numerous occasions, and providing feeding and parasite control advice and various instructions to the woman, the three dogs were subsequently seized by inspectors. For one of the dogs it was too late, it had already died.
University of Melbourne veterinary clinic’s Dr Yuchi Chen said the deceased dog suffered for an extended period, with a post-mortem examination confirming severe emaciation and malnutrition.
“If the dog was initially a reasonable body weight, then we could assume that with a moderate degree of caloric restriction, it would take at least several weeks to reach the poor body condition in which it was presented for necropsy,” he said.
Magistrate Kay Robertson stated she found the circumstances and offending to be disturbing and the Melton woman was found guilty of several charges including aggravated animal cruelty, unreasonably failing to provide veterinary or other appropriate attention or treatment to animals, failing to provide the animals with proper and sufficient food and breach of a notice to comply.
RSPCA Victoria was granted costs and secured a five-year disqualification order against the woman owning or being the person in charge of any animals. She was also fined and convicted.
RSPCA Victoria inspectorate south west region team leader Belinda Dent said this case was another example of preventable animal cruelty.
“Our inspectors across the state regularly see animals like these dogs that require basic care, such as food and parasite control,” she said.
“People in charge of any animal must ensure they are aware of their legal obligations to provide proper food, water, shelter and veterinary treatment and prevent this type of suffering.”
Anyone with concerns about the welfare of animals can make a report to RSPCA, at rspcavic.org/cruelty-report/ or 03 9224 2222.
