Avondale Heights man pleads guilty to neglecting dog

Published on 20 December 2024

A 23-year-old Avondale Heights man pleaded guilty to failing to provide veterinary treatment to a sick or injured animal under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986 and fined $1,000 without conviction at the Broadmeadows Magistrates Court on 17 September 2024.

RSPCA Victoria Inspectors visited the man’s property after receiving an animal cruelty report from a member of the public concerning the wellbeing of a dog at the location.

When the Inspectors attended the man’s property, they found a senior Jack Russell Terrier in urgent need of veterinary treatment.

The dog was lying on the ground with breathing difficulties, a flea infestation, and was unable to lift its head.

The man confirmed he was the dog’s owner and surrendered the animal to the Inspectors, whereupon it was immediately transported to RSPCA Victoria’s veterinary clinic.

RSPCA Victoria Forensic Veterinarian, Dr Rebecca Belousoff examined the animal upon arrival and found it was emaciated and anaemic, discharge obscuring its vision, severely fly bitten ears and severe dental disease.

“This dog was suffering from multiple medical issues,” Dr Belousoff said.

“Had he remained at the property without any medical assistance then he would have died.

“I believe that a lay person would have been able to recognise that this animal was unable to stand or walk, extremely underweight and severely unwell and sought veterinary attention and advice to help ease his pain and suffering.”

Magistrate Lambrick found the animal’s need for veterinary care was obvious to the man and fined him $1,000 without conviction, with $315.50 in costs awarded to RSPCA Victoria.

“This is extremely serious, this animal was completely dependent on you,” Magistrate Lambrick said.

“[It was] absolutely obvious to you it needed care and attention.

“These cases would usually attractive a significant fine to deter you and all others”

RSPCA Victoria Chief Inspector Michelle Green said the case had a sad outcome for the animal and said pet owners were responsible for the wellbeing of all animals in their care.

“If you own a pet, you must research its care requirements and make sure you recognise the signs of an unwell animal before it results in its suffering,” Chief Inspector Green said.

“This dog suffered extensively from neglect over a long period of time with insufficient veterinary care.

“There is no excuse for ignoring the pain and suffering of an animal in your care and we will not stop investigating these cases across Victoria.”

Anyone found guilty of similar cruelty offences under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986 can face fines of up to $49,397.50 or 12 months’ imprisonment.

RSPCA Victoria urges anyone with concerns about the welfare of animals to make a report at rspcavic.org/cruelty-report or on 03 9224 2222.

It’s estimated it will cost RSPCA Victoria more than $10.7 million to operate the Inspectorate this financial year.

Other related content
Image of fireworks
RSPCA Safety Tips for pets on New Year’s Eve

RSPCA Victoria is encouraging pet owners to keep their pets safe during New Year...

Read more
Time to go whole hog on pig welfare

RSPCA Victoria is urging the Victorian Government to go the whole hog and keep u...

Read more
RSPCA Guide to a Pet-Safe Christmas

RSPCA Victoria has shared its top tips for a pet-friendly Christmas to keep our ...

Read more
Pakenham woman pleads guilty to neglecting dog

A 42-year-old Pakenham woman pleaded guilty to one charge under the Prevention ...

Read more

Not a registered foster carer yet?

Find out how to start fostering here

Learn more