A 65-year-old Kanyapella man pleaded guilty to one charge of animal cruelty at the Echuca Magistrates Court on 3 December 2024.
RSPCA Victoria Inspectors attended the property after a report of an attack and destruction of a German Shorthaired Pointer.
The accused had witnessed two stray dogs attacking one of his lambs and managed to scare one away before destroying the other one.
The accused had previously reported multiple prior livestock attacks to the council resulting in the loss of several sheep.
The Domestic Animals Act 1994 permits the destruction of dogs found at large farming properties but requires the destruction be carried out humanely.
An autopsy was conducted by a veterinarian, who concluded the death of the animal resulted from strangulation, causing a prolonged and painful demise.
“[The dog’s] cause of death was consistent with a strangulation injury to the upper airway leading to asphyxiation with a rope or wire to the neck,” the veterinarian said.
“A death of this nature would have subjected the dog to a terrifying slow and prolonged demise.”
Magistrate McRae recognised the accused’s challenging circumstances but emphasised the importance of finding alternative means to prevent livestock attacks after describing the conduct as ‘barbaric and stomach-churning’.
The accused pleaded guilty and was fined $2000 without conviction.
RSPCA Victoria Inspectorate Chief Inspector Michelle Green said she hoped the court’s decision sends a clear message about the inhumane treatment of animals.
“No animal deserves to suffer the way this dog did, it is completely unacceptable and avoidable,” Chief Inspector Green said.
“While we recognise the difficult circumstances surrounding this case, the pain caused to the animal cannot be ignored.
“The law is very clear on how animals must be treated in Victoria, and we will continue our work to ensure that no animal experiences the same fate.”
The relevant offences are covered under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986.
Anyone found guilty of cruelty offences can face fines of up to $98,795.00 or 2 years’ imprisonment.
Anyone with concerns about the welfare of animals is urged to make a report to RSPCA Victoria at rspcavic.org/cruelty-report or by calling 03 9224 2222.
It’s estimated it will cost RSPCA Victoria more than $10.7 million to operate the Inspectorate this financial year.
