RSPCA Victoria has successfully prosecuted a 62-year-old woman and a 62-year-old man from Loddon Shire, who each pleaded guilty to one count of animal cruelty under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (1986) and were fined $1,000 each with conviction on 12 February 2026 in the St Arnaud Magistrates Court.

RSPCA Victoria Inspectors attended the Loddon Shire property after a concerned member of the public reported a goat with an abnormal limb angulation and obvious lameness.

The animal’s owners confirmed they were aware of the goat’s injury and had failed to arrange veterinary care for the animal.

An RSPCA Victoria veterinarian reported that the fracture was severe, likely sustained weeks to months earlier, and would have caused significant and obvious pain to the animal.

“This severe fracture to the fetlock of the goat would have resulted in significant pain and unnecessary suffering.” the veterinarian said.

“The leg’s unnatural angle was obvious, and timely treatment should have been provided to the animal.

“The bone’s clear structural damage would have developed over time, indicating the injury likely carried ongoing infection, inflammation, and obvious discomfort.

His Honour Magistrate Hoare found the charges of animal cruelty proven and imposed a fine of $1,000 on each accused.

RSPCA Victoria Chief Inspector Michelle Green said that failing to provide appropriate treatment or veterinary care for a sick or injured animal is a cruel and serious breach of an owner’s responsibilities.

“Failing to provide appropriate treatment or veterinary care to an obviously debilitated animal is illegal,” RSPCA Victoria Chief Inspector Michelle Green said

“Turning a blind eye to its need for medical intervention was cruel and entirely preventable,”

“RSPCA Victoria is committed to defending animal welfare and ensuring every animal has the right to a life without pain or suffering.”

The relevant offences fall under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (1986), and anyone found guilty of cruelty offences can face fines of up to $50,877.50 or 12-months’ imprisonment.

Anyone with concerns about the welfare of animals is urged to make a report to RSPCA Victoria at rspcavic.org/who-to-call or by calling 03 9224 2222.

It’s estimated it will cost RSPCA Victoria more than $12.8 million to operate the Inspectorate this financial year.