Prosecutions

In addition to investigating cruelty, RSPCA Inspectors spend a significant portion of their time preparing animal cruelty cases and attending court.

The RSPCA has an excellent prosecution record but the financial penalty of losing a case can be extremely high. Court cases and potential appeals can be extremely costly and difficult to anticipate. Fines imposed by the court are allocated to the State Government and while costs can be awarded to the RSPCA, these are often difficult to recover from the offenders.

Animal welfare legislation

Inspectors protect animals from cruelty and neglect by enforcing the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (POCTAA) 1986 and Part 4 of the Domestic Animals Act (DAA) 1994 in Victoria. These pieces of legislation govern the circumstances where our Inspectors can investigate or intervene, and we are lawfully bound by these Acts. Victoria’s Inspectorate is the only not-for-profit agency with the power to lay charges under POCTAA.

Read the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986

Read the Domestic Animals Act 1994

Prosecution outcomes

In addition to investigating cruelty, RSPCA Inspectors spend a significant portion of their time preparing animal cruelty cases and attending court. RSPCA Victoria Inspectors are authorised to investigate animal cruelty reports defined by the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (POCTAA) 1986 as well as investigate illegal Domestic Animal Businesses (DABs) defined by the Domestic Animals Act (DAA) 1994. The RSPCA has an excellent prosecution record but the financial penalty of losing a case can be extremely high. Court cases and potential appeals can be extremely costly and difficult to anticipate. Fines imposed by the court are allocated to the State Government and while costs can be awarded to the RSPCA, these are often difficult to recover from the offenders.

You can read about some of our recent prosecutions below.

July 2024

Date	Type of animal	Court	Summary	Charges and outcome
$ July 2024	Caged birds (86) Dogs (2) Cats (2) Alpaca (1)	Seymour Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of dogs, cats, an alpaca and a large number of caged birds. In 2017, the occupier of the premises received a 10-year conditional disqualification order for keeping dogs, other than three identified dogs. RSPCA inspectors and Police Victoria executed a search warrant at the premises and documented 86 birds (parrots, doves and poultry). Parrots were confined in squalid cages stacked up in rooms, built up with faeces and with little to no palatable water. Two poodle dogs with very matted coats appeared to have spent a lot of time housed in small cages. Two cats and an alpaca with a heavy fleece burden were also on the premises. The two dogs were not desexed or registered with the local council as required in the previous banning order. The dogs and cats were in direct breach of the order and were subsequently seized. A red Eclectus parrot with severe feather loss, three parrots and a bantam rooster were seized due to inappropriate housing breaches. The animals were transported to the RSPCA and examined by a veterinarian. Veterinary examination showed a range of conditions as a result of unsuitable housing and lack of care. The accused refused to surrender any of the seized animals or reduce numbers at the premises at the time of the investigation. However, all animals seized in this case have since been adopted or released to a wildlife rehabilitator.	The accused faced three charges: (1) breach of conditional banning order, (2) confining animals in inappropriate conditions causing pain and suffering and (3) committing an act of cruelty in relation to animals. The accused was convicted, sentenced to a two-year good behaviour bond and disqualified for a period of ten years from owning any animal, with the exception of six birds. Costs of $1,861.63 were awarded to the RSPCA.

June 2024

Date	Type of animal	Court	Summary	Charges and outcome
20 June 2024	Dog (1)	Frankston Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of a dog. Audiovisual recordings were provided to the RSPCA showing the accused striking the dog on multiple occasions with a long white object. A second video shows the accused striking the dog multiple times while inside its kennel. Another video shows the dog, chained, being struck across the hip and head. RSPCA inspectors attended the premises, seized the dog and transported him to the RSPCA. Veterinary examination showed the dog had suffered physical punishment and aversive handling, which caused fear and distress along with physical pain. The dog was relinquished to new owners.	The accused was charged with striking a dog and fined $2000. Costs of $$2095.10 were awarded to the RSPCA.
18 June 2024	Rabbits (2)	Melbourne Magistrates’ Court	An audio/video report was supplied to the RSPCA that demonstrated the accused at a park with two dogs and two co-accused (see prosecution report, 13 December 2023). The accused released a rabbit from a box and both co-accused released the dogs to attack, chase and maul the rabbit. A second incident on the same date shows the accused releasing another rabbit from a box. The accused encouraged the dogs to repeatedly predate, maul and kill the rabbit. The footage shows the rabbit was distressed and is heard screaming in the footage. A veterinary report stated that each rabbit was alive and conscious prior to being mauled by the two dogs. The report concludes that two domesticated rabbits had been procured to be used as bait for these dogs to chase and catch. Being chased by the dogs and then ferociously attacked would have caused these rabbits immense physical pain and injury, along with fear, and these rabbits would have died a painful death. The dogs were surrendered to the RSPCA.	The accused faced two charges of live baiting and progressed with a plea of guilty. The magistrate imposed a six-month good behaviour bond without conviction and the accused was fined $500.
3 June 2024	Dogs (2)	Warrnambool Magistrates’ court	The accused was in charge of two dogs. RSPCA inspectors attended the premises and observed both dogs in thin body condition. The RSPCA advised the accused to increase food intake with a higher protein and fat content. On follow up, the inspectors observed that one dog looked very unwell with weepy eyes, a dry dull coat, very flat in his demeanour and in an emaciated body condition. The accused was instructed to take the dog for urgent veterinary care. When the accused became abusive, the inspector sought assistance from Victoria Police. The dog was seized and transported to a local veterinary clinic. Urgent first aid care was provided as the dog was severely emaciated and had a severe hook worm infestation. When treated and fed, the dog gained nearly 2 kg in 20 days.	The accused faced two charges of cruelty: (1) failure to provide food and (2) failure to seek veterinary attention. The accused was convicted, fined $1000 and disqualified from owning an animal for two years. Costs of $936.90 were awarded to the RSPCA.

May 2024

Date	Type of animal	Court	Summary	Charges and outcome
9 May 2024	Dog (1)	Shepparton Magistrates’ Court	RSPCA Victoria received reports of a property where approximately thirty dogs were tethered and in poor condition. RSPCA inspectors, council officers and Victoria Police attended the premises. On this day, there were 27 adult dogs and 8 puppies housed at the property. Most of the dogs were tethered using heavy chains. One dog was tethered in a sandy area littered with faeces, with no shelter from the heat. The dog was in poor condition, panting heavily, struggling to stand and whimpering with pain from an infected toe that was swollen and smelt necrotic. The RSPCA informed the owner and seized the animal. The dog was transported to the RSPCA shelter and assessed by an RSPCA veterinarian. The dog was experiencing great pain and suffering due to the extremely painful bony infection of the cancerous mass in the toe of her front right paw, was suffering with severe hip dysplasia, spondylosis of the spine, a chronic ear infection and a large mass in her perineal region. She also had ulcerated pressure sores on her elbows, likely exacerbated by her living conditions and lack of soft bedding. Humane euthanasia was required.	The accused faced three charges: (1) confining an animal in insanitary conditions, (2) failing to provide food, drink or shelter, and (3) aggravated cruelty resulting in the death of an animal. The accused was convicted and placed on a Community Corrections Order with 250 hours of community service work over a two-year period. The offender was disqualified from owning dogs for 10 years, other than 14 dogs specified. All other dogs must be rehomed within 3 months. RSPCA Victoria was granted a monitoring order for 10 years. Costs of $10,550.85 were awarded to the RSPCA.

April 2024

Date

Type of animal

Court

Summary

Charges and outcome

30 April 2024

Dogs (2)

Melbourne Magistrates’ Court

The accused was the owner of two dogs.
Police attended a domestic violence incident, where they were provided with video footage showing the accused repeatedly hitting, beating and kicking one dog with force. The other dog was present during this behaviour.
A report was provided to the RSPCA and an RSPCA inspector attended the property. A search warrant was executed and both dogs were seized. Both dogs were transported to the RSPCA and examined by a veterinarian. The video footage was also examined by RSPCA animal behaviourists.
The accused surrendered ownership of both dogs to the RSPCA.

The accused faced two charges: (1) an act of cruelty upon an animal by abusing, beating, worrying, tormenting or terrifying it, and (2) an act of cruelty upon an animal by worrying or terrifying the animal.

The accused pleaded guilty, was convicted and sentenced to a Community Correction Order. He was fined $600 and disqualified from owning an animal for 5 years. Costs of $1320 were awarded to the RSPCA.

March 2024

Date	Type of animal	Court	Summary	Charges and outcome

13 March 2024	Dog (1)	Werribee Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of a dog. RSPCA inspectors attended a property where a dog was confined in a wire crate with insufficient shelter. The dog was wearing an electronic collar around his neck. The accused was witnessed beating the dog, with the dog heard crying and wailing. Council officers attended but the dog presented normally with no injuries. RSPCA inspectors re-attended the property and issued the owner with two Notices to Comply. These instructed him to provide the dog with clean, safe and appropriate living conditions and to provide the dog with a veterinary examination. The accused was then witnessed beating the dog repeatedly, over several weeks. The dog was seen to be lame. RSPCA inspectors attended the property five times. The dog was found to be living in unacceptable conditions housed in a small pen with concrete flooring, no weatherproof shelter available and a build-up of excrement in the pen. The accused moved and the RSPCA attended on three more occasions at this new address. The dog was still not provided with proper shelter and was seen with a circular wound around his muzzle. RSPCA inspectors and Victoria Police Officers attended the property and the accused was cautioned and interviewed. The accused surrendered the dog to the RSPCA on this day. Veterinary examination showed untreated physical injuries and signs of possible physical abuse. The dog was wearing an electronic collar with metal prongs embedded into his neck. Radiographs indicated three fractures on the cheek, the skull and the ribs.	The accused faced several charges: inappropriate confinement of an animal, beating an animal, causing pain and suffering to an animal, and failure to provide veterinary treatment. The accused was convicted, sentenced to a Community Corrections Order for a period of 18 months and required to perform community work for a period of 18 months. In addition, he is required to complete an animal cruelty program. The offender is disqualified from owning an animal for ten years. Costs were awarded to the RSPCA.
7 March 2024	Dog (1)	Sunshine Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of three dogs. RSPCA Inspectors attended the premises and observed one dog to be in an emaciated body condition. Her ribs, hips and spine were clearly prominent, and her body lacked fat and muscle. The accused and co-accused surrendered the dog to RSPCA Victoria. Veterinary examination showed the dog was emaciated due to poor nutrition and a lack of basic care.	The accused faced two charges: failing to provide veterinary attention and failing to provide sufficient food to the dog. The accused was convicted, fined $1000 and disqualified from owning animals for one year. Costs were awarded to the RSPCA in the sum of $181.63 for the veterinary report. The co-accused in this case was convicted and sentenced on 31 August 2023.

February 2024

Date	Type of animal	Court	Summary	Charges and outcome
29 February 2024	Cats (4)	Melbourne Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of four cats that were abandoned and living in poor conditions. RSPCA inspectors attended the property where four domestic cats were confined to a small bathroom. The bathroom was littered with rubbish, empty dry cat food bags and a plastic tub overflowing with animal faeces. The room was poorly ventilated with no natural light. A tap was running in the basin. The inspector provided the cats with fresh water and cat food and affixed a notice of intent to seize the abandoned cats to the front door. Three days later, inspectors entered the premises and seized the four cats. The cats were transported to the RSPCA veterinary clinic. Veterinary examination revealed runny eye discharge due to continued exposure to ammonia in the air from urine, ear infections, unkempt stained coats, and urinary tract infections.	The accused faced two charges: (1) abandonment of the cats and (2) causing unnecessary pain or suffering to a cat. The accused pleaded guilty and was disqualified from owning a cat for two years. Costs of $1358.88 were awarded to the RSPCA.
22 February 2024	Dog (1)	Werribee Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of a puppy. The accused surrendered the puppy to the local council with a collar severely embedded in her neck. Veterinary examination found an embedded collar approximately two centimetres deep in the neck of the dog. The dog was anaesthetised, the collar cut and removed, and medications administered. The veterinary report noted that the collar had been present for a long time and would have been very painful for the dog.	The accused was charged with failing to provide veterinary treatment. The accused pleaded guilty, was convicted and disqualified from owning a dog for five years. The accused was fined $2000, and costs were awarded to the RSPCA.
8 February 2024	Harness racing horses	Sunshine Magistrates’ Court	The accused trained, managed and housed harness racing horses at his registered training establishment. The accused noticed that a colt with very swollen legs. The colt was unable to weight bear on either leg and was unable to stand comfortably. The accused did not provide the colt with any veterinary treatment after he noticed that the colt was injured. Harness Racing Victoria stewards conducted a stable inspection and observed that the colt was obviously lame and in pain, with burn lesions to both forelimbs. Radiographs taken by a veterinarian revealed that the colt had catastrophic fractures to both limbs. Humane euthanasia was required. A second horse was observed to have a swollen right forelimb and was toe pointing, indicating that she was struggling to weight bear. Veterinary examination found a fractured bone and a torn tendon. Humane euthanasia was required.	The accused faced four charges: (1) failure to provide veterinary attention to two horses and (2) aggravated cruelty to the same two horses. The accused pleaded guilty and was disqualified from being the owner or person in charge of any horse for five years. The accused was fined $3000 without conviction.
1 February 2024	Cats and kittens	Frankston Magistrates’ Court	RSPCA inspectors attended the accused’s property following an animal cruelty report. The accused was not home at the time. Three 10-week-old kittens were found in the backyard suffering from symptoms of feline influenza (cat flu), all with a nasal discharge, lethargy, flea burdens and underweight body conditions. A fourth adult female cat was located by inspectors in a bungalow in the rear yard. This cat was dehydrated, in skeletal body condition and was suffering from diarrhoea. The four cats were seized for immediate veterinary treatment and were admitted to the RSPCA veterinary clinic. Inspectors observed at least ten cats confined inside the house, some of which appeared very unwell. A notice was left at the property. RSPCA inspectors returned to the property where the accused admitted to being the person attending to the welfare of the cats and kittens on the property. The accused stated that the cats were stray cats that had come to her property. The accused agreed to surrender the six cats relating to the charges to the RSPCA and a few of them have since been adopted into new homes.	The accused was charged with six charges of failing to provide veterinary care to cats and kittens at her property. The accused was found guilty of all charges, convicted and disqualified from being the owner or person in charge of any cats for a period of five years. The accused was fined $2,500.
1 February 2024	Cats (28) Dogs (2)	County Court of Melbourne	This case was heard on appeal (see 29 August 2023). The accused was the sole person in charge of two dogs and approximately 28 cats who lived at the property. Many of the animals had serious medical issues that were chronic in nature and would have caused a significant amount of pain, discomfort, and distress.	The accused was charged with failing to provide veterinary treatment to several cats. The accused was convicted, fined $17,500 and disqualified from owning any animals for ten years. The accused will also be monitored for ten years. On appeal, defence made submissions on the accused’s personal, psychological and financial circumstances. The court upheld the conviction but reduced the fine.

December 2023

Date	Type of animal	Court	Summary	Charges and outcome
14 December 2023	Shetland ponies (4)	Ringwood Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner and person in charge of four Shetland ponies. Between 2017 and 2020, the RSPCA verbally instructed the accused to provide farrier attention, issued a written Notice to Comply to provide veterinary attention and issued the accused a Warning Letter about the four ponies. In 2021 the RSPCA observed one pony with overgrown hooves that was lame and unable to weight-bear on the right forelimb. Another pony had severely overgrown rear hooves that were curling upwards. Two other ponies had slightly overgrown hooves and were overdue for farrier attention. The accused confirmed that a veterinarian had recommended euthanasia for two ponies. RSPCA inspectors re-attended the property and seized all four ponies. Two were taken to South-Eastern Equine Hospital for immediate veterinary attention, the other two were transported to RSPCA Peninsula. After veterinary examination, humane euthanasia was required for one pony. Three ponies were successfully rehabilitated and rehomed.	The accused faced three charges: (1) failing to provide veterinary treatment to two ponies and (2) omitting to act causing unreasonable suffering to two other ponies. The third charge of aggravated cruelty was withdrawn in case conferencing. The accused pleaded guilty, was given an adjourned undertaking to be of good behaviour for 12 months without conviction and was disqualified for five years from being in charge of any horse or pony. The accused was instructed to donate $2000 to Project Hope horse charity and ordered to pay costs of $577 to the RSPCA.
13 December 2023	Rabbits (2)	Melbourne Magistrates’ Court	An audio/video report was supplied to the RSPCA that demonstrated the three accused at a park with their two dogs. The accused released a rabbit from a box and both co-accused released the dogs to attack, chase and maul the rabbit. A second incident on the same date shows the co-accused releasing another rabbit from a box. The accused encouraged the dogs to repeatedly predate, maul and kill the rabbit. The footage shows the rabbit was distressed and is heard screaming in the footage. A veterinary report stated that each rabbit was alive and conscious prior to being mauled by the two dogs. The report concludes that two domesticated rabbits had been procured to be used as bait for these dogs to chase and catch. Being chased by the dogs and then ferociously attacked would have caused these rabbits immense physical pain and injury, along with fear, and these rabbits would have died a painful death.	The accused faced two charges of live baiting and progressed with a plea of guilty. The accused was also facing charges relating to traffic offences and robbery. Two co-accused in this matter have other matters yet to be finalised. Five charges were consolidated, and the magistrate found all charges proven, with convictions on all charges. The accused must complete a Community Corrections Order for 18 months and perform 100 hours of unpaid community work. He was also given an adjourned undertaking to be of good behaviour for two years and disqualified from being the owner of any animal for a period of 18 months. The magistrate said if it were not for the plea of guilty at an early stage and the fact the accused is only 19 years old, he would have imposed a 3-year jail sentence.
6 December 2023	Dog (1)	Ballarat Magistrates’ Court	The RSPCA received a report that the accused had been hospitalised, leaving several animals at her home without care. An RSPCA inspector attended the premises with Victoria police. Multiple animals including seven dogs, two cats, multiple birds and guineapigs, goldfish, a ferret and a horse were on the property. A deceased dog was found inside the house with lacerations on both arms full of purulent discharge. All animals were seized and the deceased dog was transported for a post-mortem. The post-mortem found the dog had died from an overwhelming bacterial infection and sepsis, present for at least three days.	The accused was charged with failing to provide veterinary treatment to her dog. The accused was convicted and fined $1000. The accused was ordered to pay costs of $2141 to the RSPCA.

November 2023

Date	Type of animal	Court	Summary	Charges and outcome
30 November 2023	Dogs (3)	Sunshine Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of three dogs. RSPCA inspectors attended the property on eight separate occasions to inspect the animals. Inspectors provided the accused with advice on feeding and parasite control. The suggestion of surrender of dogs by the accused to the RSPCA or to council was not taken. Initially inspectors also observed that the accused had dog food at the premises. On follow-up visits, inspectors observed that all three dogs had deteriorated in body condition, with their hips, ribs and spine clearly prominent. RSPCA inspectors issued a Notice to Comply to provide all dogs with proper and sufficient food. On further follow-up, inspectors observed two dogs in thin to emaciated body condition, with their hips, ribs and spine prominent. The accused stated that one dog had passed away two days previously. The deceased dog was transported for post-mortem examination. A veterinary report found severe emaciation and starvation over a prolonged period.	The accused faced a number of charges: (1) failing to provide veterinary treatment x 3, (2) failing to provide sufficient food x 3, (3) aggravated cruelty and (4) breach of a Notice to Comply. The accused was convicted, fined $5000 and disqualified from owning or being in charge of any animal for five years. The accused was ordered to pay costs of $10,382.44.
23 November 2023	Cats (multiple)	Ballarat Magistrates’ Court	This case involved the breach of a banning order in relation to cats. The accused was a repeat offender in relation to the neglect and exposure of cats to unacceptable circumstances. An RSPCA inspector described the conditions in the accused’s house as unhygienic and squalid. Many of the cats were in cages in darkened conditions, and the house had plumbing issues and was unkempt. There was a strong stench of ammonia from the presence of cat urine and faeces throughout the house.	The accused was charged with failure to comply with the (previously applied) banning order. The accused was convicted, fined $5000 and disqualified from having more than two cats for 10 years, subject to monitoring. The accused was ordered to pay costs of $25,233.
20 November 2023	Horses (2) Dogs (3)	Shepparton Magistrates’ Court	RSPCA inspectors responded to a report and attended a property with 33 horses. Approximately half of them were underweight. There was insufficient pasture to sustain the horses and there was no evidence of supplementary feed. Five horses were an urgent welfare risk and required immediate veterinary attention. Three dogs were observed living in squalid conditions without water, and one of them required veterinary treatment. Notices to Comply were issued to the accused to address the welfare concerns. RSPCA inspectors re-attended with a veterinarian, who assessed one pony to have a probable broken shoulder. Humane euthanasia was required. On a follow-up visit, RSPCA inspectors determined that no improvement had been made to the dogs’ living conditions and all three dogs were seized. The RSPCA re-attended with a veterinarian who assessed all the remaining horses and ponies on the property. One filly was seized and transported to hospital where she was treated for a heavy parasite burden and malnutrition.	The accused faced three charges: (1) failing to provide sufficient food, drink or shelter, (2) failing to provide veterinary care, and (3) confining dogs where the confinement caused, or was likely to cause, unreasonable pain or suffering. The accused was convicted, fined $4500 and disqualified from owning a horse or dog for two years. The accused was ordered to pay costs of $3,539.19.
14 November 2023		Geelong Magistrates’ Court	A previous case against the accused and co-accused was heard at the Melbourne County Court on 8 September 2023. In that case, the accused and co-accused conducted a domestic animal business on unregistered premises. The enterprise kept cats and kittens for sale. Kittens were sold without being checked by a veterinarian, without microchips and without the source number of the person selling the animals.	The accused and co-accused were convicted and fined $16,000, which included RSPCA costs.
3 November 2023	Dog (1)	Ballarat Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of a dog. The RSPCA received a report that the accused had presented a greyhound for veterinary care. The dog was emaciated, recumbent and unable to stand and support himself, indicating severe muscle wastage. His vital signs were poor, and he was severely dehydrated and hypothermic. Humane euthanasia was required. The RSPCA seized the body of the dog and it was taken for necropsy. The accused declined an interview with RSPCA inspectors but made a statement about the dog. A veterinary report found severe emaciation and starvation over a prolonged period.	The accused faced three charges: (1) failing to provide sufficient food, drink or shelter, (2) failing to provide veterinary care, and (3) aggravated cruelty. The accused was placed on a 12-month good behaviour bond without conviction, disqualified from owning a dog for 10 years and and subject to monitoring compliance for the duration. The accused was ordered to pay costs of $883.

October 2023

Date

Type of animal

Court

Summary

Charges and outcome

31 October 2023

Roosters (multiple)

Broadmeadows Magistrates’ Court

In 2019 an RSPCA inspector attended a property with officers from Brimbank Council. More than 70 roosters and around 15 hens were discovered. The roosters were all groomed for fighting with their combs, wattles and spurs severed. Officers also observed a cockfighting ring and other related implements. Sheds and enclosures housed roosters individually. A sparring/fighting ring had a phone rig designed to record the roosters fighting.
The accused was listed on the Banning Order database and had an active banning order in place. The accused admitted that he trained the birds but denied any involvement with cockfighting.
RSPCA inspectors searched the property and found cockfighting implements, imported cockfighting drugs and cockfighting paraphernalia. All cockfighting implements were seized, along with seven live roosters that were recently mutilated. A Notice to Comply was issued instructing the accused to remove all roosters in accordance with his active banning order.
RSPCA inspectors then executed a 24K search warrant with Brimbank Council Officers and police at the offender’s property. There were still around 50 roosters present. The RSPCA inspector seized the accused’s mobile phone, which contained pictures of cockfighting implements including metal spurs and many date and time stamped videos of the accused in his fighting ring.
A report from an RSPCA veterinarian stated that the birds had been groomed for cockfighting. The removal of their combs would have been painful, with the only purpose being to facilitate cockfighting.

The accused was charged with cockfighting under section 13 (1) of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, and other charges including contravention of a section 12 (AF) order, 9 (1) (a), 9 (1) (i), and further breaches under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Regulations 9 (1).

The court found the offending to be of a very serious nature. The accused was convicted and sentenced to a Community Corrections Order for a period of 12 months with conditions, including the completion of an animal cruelty program. A full banning order was imposed, and the offender is prohibited from owning any roosters for a lifetime period.

September 2023

Date	Type of animal	Court	Summary	Charges and outcome
29 September 2023	Dogs (2) Cat (2)	Korumburra Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of two dogs and two cats. Victoria Police attended the property and observed two dogs in the rear yard, both in thin body condition. Nobody was at home. The following day, police re-attended the property accompanied by RSPCA inspectors the day after. A cat was located in the house without access to any food or water. A Notice was left at the property, but the accused did not respond. A warrant was executed at the property by RSPCA and Leongatha Police. The condition of the two dogs had deteriorated and a search of the dwelling revealed two cats in poor body condition. All four animals were seized as they were believed to have been abandoned and transported to the RSPCA. The accused attended the Frankston Police Station where she was interviewed under caution. She claimed to have been commuting between properties despite Victoria being in a state-wide lockdown due to COVID. Both dogs and cats were left with the RSPCA for one year before the accused could be located again. A court order was required to transfer the animals to the property of the RSPCA.	The accused faced two charges: (1) failing to provide food and (2) abandoning animals. The accused was placed on an adjourned undertaking to be of good behaviour for two years and disqualified from owning a dog or a cat for five years.
28 September 2023	Dog (1)	Frankston Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of a dog. Victoria Police attended the premises on an unrelated matter and discovered the dog lying in overgrown bushes. A rotting smell was emanating from her, and they observed a large rotting maggot infested mass on her abdomen. Police officers removed the dog and immediately transported her to an emergency veterinary clinic. Humane euthanasia was required. An autopsy by a veterinarian found the dog to be in an emaciated body condition with a large tumour showing local irritation of the mass, extensive central necrosis and skin laceration. RSPCA inspectors conducted an interview with the accused under caution. The accused stated he had sought veterinary treatment for the tumour some time ago, but this information proved to be false.	The accused faced three charges: (1) failing to provide veterinary treatment, (2) failing to provide sufficient food and (3) aggravated cruelty. The accused was convicted and fined $2000 with statutory costs also awarded. The accused was disqualified from owning or being in charge of any dog for ten years and subject to monitoring compliance for the duration.
13 September 2023	Dog (1)	Echuca Magistrates’ Court	The two co-accused were the owners of a dog. Victoria Police attended the premises following a report of a break-in and located a deceased dog in the bathroom. The bathroom was in a filthy condition with urine and faeces on the floor along with the dead dog. An RSPCA inspector attended the property, where the accused had buried the dog. The RSPCA and Victoria Police attended the premises with a warrant and exhumed the body. On post-mortem examination, the dog was found to be severely emaciated. No underlying pathology to account for the malnutrition was identified. A second dog was seized by the Council in an emaciated condition and transferred into the care of the RSPCA. On examination by an RSPCA veterinarian, the dog was found to be anaemic and inflamed as the result of hookworm and flea infestation.	The accused and co-accused faced two charges each: (1) causing the dog unreasonable pain or suffering and (2) failing to provide the dog with sufficient food. The accused and co-accused were convicted. The accused was fined $2000 and disqualified from owning a dog for five years. The accused was ordered to pay costs of $2250.76 to the RSPCA. The co-accused was fined $1200 and disqualified from owning a dog for five years.
8 September 2023	Cats and kittens (multiple)	Melbourne County Court	The accused and co-accused conducted a domestic animal business on unregistered premises. The enterprise kept cats and kittens for sale. Kittens were sold without being checked by a veterinarian, without microchips and without the source number of the person selling the animals. RSPCA inspectors attended the premises and found cats and kittens housed in insanitary conditions without adequate ventilation and with no access to clean food and water. On examination by an RSPCA veterinarian, a large number of cats and kittens were found to be suffering from respiratory infections, gastrointestinal infections and dermatitis.	The accused faced 37 charges, including multiple charges for (1) failing to provide veterinary or other appropriate attention or treatment, (2) loading, crowding or confining where the loading, crowding or confinement caused or was likely to cause pain or suffering, (3) selling, offering for sale, purchasing, driving or conveying the animal which appeared to be unfit because of weakness, emaciation, injury or disease to be sold, purchased, driven or conveyed, (4) being subject to section 84WA DAA order and failing to comply with that order, (5) conducting a domestic animal business (DAB) on a premises that was not registered with Ballarat Council, (6) selling the kitten other than in accordance with section 96 DAA, (7) offering animal for sale other than in accordance with section 96 DAA, (8) conducting a DAB that did not comply with the relevant Code of Practice (CoP) being the CoP for the Operation of Breeding and Rearing Businesses (section 5), (9) advertising an animal for sale or giving away where the advertisement did not contain the source number and the unique microchip number. The co-accused faced 10 charges. Both were sentenced to a two-year community corrections order, during which they must perform 200 hours of community work. They were banned from owning and being in charge of, breeding, rearing, and sale of cats or kittens for ten years, to be monitored by RSPCA Victoria Inspectors to ensure compliance with the order. They were fined $25,000 each, ordered to pay RSPCA Victoria $144,247.87 in total costs, and ordered to transfer or surrender any cats in their care within 14 days to RSPCA’s satisfaction. Ongoing judicial monitoring was ordered to ensure compliance.
5 September 2023	Dog (1)	Werribee Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner and person in charge of a dog. The accused presented her dog for examination at a veterinary clinic but failed to follow up with a referral to Lort Smith Animal Hospital. An RSPCA inspector attended the property and found the dog flat, sick and in emaciated body condition. The dog was seized and transported to the RSPCA. On examination by an RSPCA veterinarian, immediate surgery was required to prevent further damage to the gastrointestinal tract. The dog was surrendered to the RSPCA and was adopted by a new owner.	The accused faced two charges: (1) failing to provide veterinary attention and (2) causing unreasonable pain. The accused was convicted, fined $400 and disqualified from being the owner or person in charge of a dog for two years.
1 September 2023	Horses (100)	Shepparton Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of approximately 100 thoroughbred horses housed across two properties. RSPCA inspectors, accompanied by a veterinarian and stewards from Racing Victoria, attended the properties and inspected the horses. Approximately 40 horses were inspected at the first property. The paddocks were barren, void of any natural pasture and heavily infested with weeds. There was no supplementary feeding, either in the form of hay or hard feed such as a feed mix. One mare had a severe proud flesh wound on a hind leg that had not received veterinary treatment or pain management (Charge 1). Another horse had a large mass on her lower muzzle, suspected to be cancer, that affected her ability to eat (Charge 2). Another colt was in poor body condition and suffering from a large open wound (Charge 3). Two horses had their ribs visible, their backbone protruding and their hip bones were obvious with muscle wastage of the hips and neck. Approximately 40 horses were inspected on the second property. One mare was found to be lame with a suspected abscess and given initial treatment (Charge 5). Across both properties other horses were significantly underweight and infested with lice. RSPCA inspectors re-attended the properties with Racing Victoria’s veterinarian and an equine veterinarian. Three horses required urgent veterinary treatment including the debridement of wounds, and nine horses were in a poor body condition with external parasites. Both veterinarians concluded that the horses were deficient in their nutritional intake (Charge 4).	The accused faced five charges: four charges for failure to provide veterinary attention and a fifth for failing to provide proper feed. The accused was convicted, fined $5000 as part of the aggregate order, disqualified from being the owner or in charge of any horse for three years and sentenced to a monitoring order.

August 2023

Date	Type of animal	Court	Summary	Charges and outcome
31 August 2023	Dog (1) Cats (2)	Sunshine Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of a dog and two cats. An RSPCA inspector attended the property and observed a cat with neck wounds. The accused stated that the cat had been attacked by a fox. The accused was instructed to seek veterinary attention as soon as possible. On follow-up, the RSPCA inspector observed that the wound had grown, was ulcerated, and appeared to be infected. The accused was instructed to attend a veterinary appointment or face further enforcement action. Following the appointment, the accused did not provide the cat with further treatment. The RSPCA re-attended the property and issued a Notice to Comply. On follow-up, RSPCA inspectors attended the property with police and executed a search warrant. The cat was transported to the RSPCA. On examination by an RSPCA veterinarian, the cat was found to have a chronic puncture wound on his cheek that required repeated surgical debridement under general anaesthetic.	The accused faced three charges: (1) failing to provide veterinary attention, (2) failing to comply with a Notice and (3) obstructing an inspector in the discharge of his duties. The accused was convicted, fined $4000 on the cruelty charge and an aggregate $2500 on the other two charges. The accused was disqualified from owning animals for ten years.
31 August 2023	Dogs (3)	Sunshine Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of three dogs. RSPCA inspectors observed a dog to be in emaciated body condition. On examination by an RSPCA veterinarian, the dog was found to be severely emaciated as a result of poor nutrition and a lack of basic care. The accused surrendered ownership of the dog to RSPCA Victoria.	The accused faced two charges: failing to provide veterinary attention and failing to provide sufficient food to the dog. The accused was convicted, fined $4000 and disqualified from owning animals for two years. A co-accused failed to appear in court and a warrant was issued for her arrest.
29 August 2023	Dog (1)	Sunshine Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of a dog. An RSPCA inspector observed the dog in an extremely emaciated condition. No food was available to the dog, and the only water available was green and stagnant. The dog was seized and examined by an RSPCA veterinarian. The dog had likely been starving for a period of at least 2 to 4 weeks. The accused surrendered the dog into the care of the RSPCA.	The accused was charged with failing to provide veterinary treatment. The accused was convicted and fined $3500.
29 August 2023	Cats (28) Dogs (2)	Sunshine Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the sole person in charge of two dogs and approximately 28 cats who lived at the property. An RSPCA inspector attended the property and inspected 17 cats. Notices to Comply were issued instructing the accused to provide veterinary treatment. On follow-up, RSPCA inspectors executed a warrant. One dog and two cats were seized and examined by an RSPCA veterinarian. RSPCA inspectors re-attended the property; under caution, the accused stated that none of the cats were immunised. A Notice to Comply was issued instructing the accused to have all the remaining cats at the property examined by a veterinarian and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) tested. The accused would not agree to surrender any of the animals at that time. The RSPCA inspector executed another search warrant accompanied by a veterinarian, and documented 28 cats at the property living communally. Some of the cats were obviously unwell. Living conditions inside the property were unclean, with no disease control measures in place. All the cats and one dog were seized. A report from an RSPCA veterinarian stated that many of the animals had serious medical issues that were chronic in nature and would have caused a significant amount of pain, discomfort, and distress. The animals were in appalling crowded conditions constantly under the threat of disease, with untreated injuries and debilitating medical conditions.	The accused was charged with failing to provide veterinary treatment to a number of cats. The accused was convicted, fined $17,500 and disqualified from owning any animals for ten years. The accused will also be monitored for ten years.
28 August 2023	Rabbits (25)	Werribee Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner and person in charge of about 25 rabbits. An RSPCA inspector observed the rabbits housed in enclosures that were overcrowded, filthy and covered with smelly, damp excrement. Advice was given to the accused to clean the enclosures, reduce the number and feed a proper diet. On follow-up, RSPCA inspectors found conditions unchanged. One rabbit was injured; she had degloved her left hind limb, exposing the bones in her foot and lower leg. The rabbit had not received any veterinary care and was seized by the RSPCA. On examination by an RSPCA veterinarian, the rabbit was found to be thin, suffering from parasite burden, urine scalding and with a severe degloving injury of a hindlimb. The leg required amputation. A Notice to Comply was issued to the accused instructing him to clean the rabbit enclosures and provide a proper and sufficient diet. On a return visit, RSPCA inspectors observed that rabbit numbers had been reduced, but the enclosures were still heavily soiled with no hay/roughage available to them.	The accused faced three charges: (1) failure to provide veterinary attention to a rabbit, (2) aggravated cruelty to a rabbit and (3) confining animals in conditions that may cause suffering. The accused was convicted and fined $3000. The accused was ordered to pay costs of $536.65. The accused is no longer the owner of rabbits.
17 August 2023	Dog (1) Cats (2) Goldfish (2)	Seymour Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of a dog, two cats and two goldfish. An RSPCA inspector attended the property in response to a report of abandoned animals. A dog was observed in emaciated body condition, with her spine, ribs and hips clearly visible. Two domestic cats were identified inside the dwelling. The dog was seized and examined by an RSPCA veterinarian, who found the dog was suffering from malnutrition, dehydration, an infected pressure sore on the right hip, a urinary tract infection, and a mild ear infection. A search warrant was executed by RSPCA inspectors at the dirty and unsanitary premises. Two domestic cats and two goldfish were located inside the dwelling and were conveyed to the RSPCA.	The accused was charged on four counts: (1) failing to provide food, (2) abandoning (multiple) domestic animals and (3) failing to provide veterinary treatment. The accused was convicted, fined $500 and disqualified from owning any animal for ten years. The accused was ordered to pay costs of $2492.40.
17 August 2023	Dog (1)	Seymour Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of a dog. In response to a report of an injured dog, the RSPCA determined that inspectors had attended the premises previously. At that time, a Notice to Comply had been issued to the owner to have a veterinarian check the dog for a suspected ear infection. An initial examination had been carried out. On follow-up, the dog was observed to have a very large, strong-smelling necrotic tumour covering the entire right ear and half of the face. The dog had hair loss, was shaking its head and had several large lumps around the rump area. The dog was seized and on examination by an RSPCA veterinarian was found to be suffering an extremely large untreated ulcerated ear tumour that was causing immense pain. The dog also had a malignant tumour behind the left thigh and was suffering from osteoarthritis with reduced motion in his hips and muscle atrophy in the hind legs. Humane euthanasia was required.	The accused was charged with failing to provide veterinary treatment and aggravated cruelty causing the death of the dog. The accused was placed on a good behaviour bond for 12 months without conviction, ordered to pay $250 and disqualified from dog ownership for ten years with the exception of her current dog. The accused was ordered to pay costs of $313.15.
8 August 2023	Dogs (2)	Echuca Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the person in charge of two dogs belonging to his mother who resided at the same address. The RSPCA attended the accused’s property and located two dogs that were severely emaciated and suffering severe dental disease. On examination by an RSPCA veterinarian, one dog required specialist surgery for her jaw and had medical issues with her eyes. The second dog was found to have heart arrythmia and suspected arthritis. Both dogs were suffering from multiple painful chronic conditions as well as being emaciated. The accused suggested that they were ‘old dogs’ and that their conditions were fine, but agreed to surrender the dogs to the RSPCA.	The accused was charged on four counts relating to two dogs: (1) failing to provide food and (2) failing to provide veterinary attention. The accused was granted a diversion, put on a good behaviour bond for six months and required to donate $400 to the RSPCA.

July 2023

27 July 2023	Rabbit (1)	Broadmeadows Magistrate’s Court	The accused was the owner of a rabbit. In 2021 the accused attended the RSPCA Victoria’s Burwood East animal shelter to surrender her rabbit. Examination by an RSPCA veterinarian determined that the rabbit was in very poor condition with matted hair. A severe necrotic skin infection of his back-end would have caused pain and suffering over a prolonged period. Humane euthanasia was required.	The accused was charged with failing to provide veterinary attention which resulted in the death of the rabbit. The accused was granted a diversion and placed on a good behaviour bond for a period of 6 months.
19 July 2023	Horses (3)	Werribee Magistrate’s Court	The accused was the owner of three horses suffering emaciation in 2019. Following RSPCA inspection and veterinary examination, humane euthanasia was required. In November 2022 the accused was handed a six-month diversion, ordered to pay $300 to the court fund, and required to provide proof of a mental health care plan from a medical provider. In May 2023 the court determined the accused had not complied with the conditions. The matter was heard ex-parte in July 2023.	The accused was fined $500 and disqualified for five years from the care and control of horses.
6 July 2023	Cat (1)	Dandenong Magistrates’ Court	In December 2020 the police were notified that there was a cat hanging from a wire snare trap, suspended between private premises and a public reserve in Springvale. The cat was in poor condition and unable to move its hind legs. Council officers removed the animal. On veterinary examination, the cat was found to be recumbent, and minimally responsive, non-ambulatory in hind limbs with absent pain response, indicating significant nerve or tissue damage. He was also found to be hypotensive, hypothermic and severely dehydrated. Bone was exposed in his left-hind metatarsal region with necrotic tissue present around the wound area. Humane euthanasia was required. In October 2021, an RSPCA inspector conducted a recorded cautioned interview with the accused. The accused admitted to having set two wire snare traps to trap animals in the back yard.	The accused faced two charges: committing an act of cruelty (setting the snare trap) and aggravated cruelty causing the death of the cat. The accused pleaded guilty to both charges and was found guilty without conviction and fined $750. The accused was ordered to pay costs of $236.23 to the RSPCA.
3 July 2023	Dogs (2)	Ballarat Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of two dogs. In December 2021, the RSPCA received a report of a dog in poor condition. An RSPCA inspector attended the property and sighted a dog in an emaciated body condition, with his hips protruding, spine and ribs visible, a sunken waist and with lesions on his body, hair loss and a flea burden. The accused was verbally instructed to have the dog examined by a veterinarian within four weeks. On follow-up, the RSPCA observed a second dog in an emaciated condition, with his hips protruding, spine and ribs visible, a sunken waist and muscle wastage. He also had skin lesions, hair loss and a flea burden. A Notice to Comply was left at the premises instructing the accused to have both dogs examined by a veterinarian. When the accused failed to comply, a warrant was executed at the premises. The dogs were seized and taken to the RSPCA Burwood East. On examination by an RSPCA veterinarian, both dogs were suffering from emaciation, inflammation and dermatitis secondary to flea infestation. Humane euthanasia was required.	The accused was charged with two counts of failing to provide veterinary attention and two counts of failing to provide food, drink or shelter charges. The accused was convicted, fined $3000 and disqualified from dog ownership for ten years. The accused was ordered to pay costs of $9015.16.

June 2023

30 June 2023	Dogs (3)	Heidelberg Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of three dogs. In March 2019, RSPCA inspectors attended the premises and documented two dogs in very thin condition. The third dog had skin complications and was tethered without appropriate shelter or water. Two Notices to Comply were handed to the owner directing him to have all three dogs seen by a veterinarian and to ensure that the tethered dog had access to shelter and water. Despite multiple follow-ups by an RSPCA inspector, the dogs were not provided with veterinary treatment. Three RSPCA inspectors and Victoria Police executed a search warrant and all three dogs were seized, along with nine underage pups that were still dependent on the one dog. The accused was cautioned and interviewed, and admitted there was no dog food on the premises. All dogs and pups were transferred to RSPCA Burwood and examined by an RSPCA veterinarian. The first dog was found to have bilateral ear infection, mild conjunctivitis, fly-bitten ear tips and chronic flea bite dermatitis. The second dog was in an emaciated to thin body condition and was suffering from malnutrition. Humane euthanasia of these dogs was required. The third dog was emaciated and suffering from starvation, while nursing nine 5-week-old puppies. The lack of food could have resulted in the death of the animal and her puppies.	The accused faced two charges: (1) failing to provide food, drink or shelter and (2) failing to provide veterinary attention. The accused was fined $1000 without conviction and disqualified from owning a dog for five years.
29 June 2023	Dog (1)	Sunshine Magistrates’ Court	The accused and co-accused were in charge of a dog with skin disease, advanced dental disease and arthritis, which caused difficulty in walking. The dog was also infested with live maggots, causing it to scream with pain. Neither the accused nor the co-accused provided the dog with veterinary attention or treatment. In January 2023 the co-accused put the dog in a box and dumped the dog away from home. The dog was discovered struggling to walk and in very poor condition, and was handed to Melton Council. On examination by a veterinarian, the dog was assessed as being dehydrated, having severe live maggot infestation over her entire dorsum with accompanying severe dermatitis and skin infection, advanced dental disease and arthritis. The owner of the microchipped dog was contacted and the matter was reported to the RSPCA Inspectorate. The owner of the dog provided details of the accused and co-accused, with whom the dog was living. RSPCA inspectors conducted a number of interviews with the accused and co-accused, including a field interview under caution with the accused.	The accused was charged with failing to provide veterinary attention. The accused was granted a diversion and ordered to make a $500 contribution to the court fund.
29 June 2023	Rooster (1)	Sunshine Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of a rooster. In November 2020 an RSPCA inspector responded to a welfare report and observed the rooster to have a significant injury and growth to the right foot (claw, toe and spur area). The rooster appeared to be lame as it was shaking and dragging the injured and inflamed foot. No food or water was available. On inquiry, the accused was abusive and threatened to kill the rooster. Victoria Police and the RSPCA and police entered the backyard and the RSPCA seized the rooster. Examination by an RSPCA veterinarian found that the rooster was in low body condition and X-rays of the foot showed complete loss of normal bone structure. The disease would have been present for several weeks to months and the rooster was suffering chronic pain and infection. Humane euthanasia was required.	The accused faced three charges: (1) failing to provide food, drink or shelter, (2) failing to provide veterinary attention and (3) aggravated cruelty. The accused was convicted, fined $2000 and disqualified from owning a bird for five years.
8 June 2023	Shetland pony (1)	Bendigo Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of a Shetland pony with severely overgrown hooves that was surrendered to the RSPCA. Humane euthanasia was required. In March 2021 the accused pleaded guilty to three charges of cruelty, subject to a good behaviour bond and required to pay $630 costs (vet and feed) and donate $2000 to the RSPCA. Legal costs were settled at $1200. The accused failed to pay $2000 to the RSPCA and was charged with failing to comply with a condition of the court order.	The accused was found guilty of contravening the adjourned undertaking and was re-sentenced to a fine of $1000 to be collected by Fines Victoria.
8 June 2023	Donkeys (4)	Ringwood Magistrates’ Court.	The accused was the owner of four donkeys. In July 2020, RSPCA inspectors attended the premises and observed various donkeys with severely overgrown hooves. The hooves were curling upwards and cracked on the sole to the wall of the hoof, and the donkeys were walking on collapsed heels. As the matter dated back to 2017, the inspectors engaged a veterinarian for review. Veterinary examination confirmed excessively overgrown hooves, probably over many years, leading to considerable discomfort. RSPCA inspectors issued a Notice to Comply with the requirement to have regular, repeated corrective trimming performed by a competent farrier. The initial farrier treatment should be performed alongside a veterinarian. In August 2020, RSPCA inspectors attended the premises with Victoria Police officers. The hooves had not been trimmed back to the required standard. In September 2020, RSPCA inspectors attended the premises. Three donkeys had disappeared, and the owner’s father could not state their whereabouts. RSPCA inspectors examined the remaining donkey and found obvious conformation hoof issues, poor hoof shape and uneven weight distribution. RSPCA inspectors provided verbal directions to the accused to have a veterinarian examine the remaining donkey. On veterinary examination, the donkey would require corrective farriery under sedation for a safe and effective trim. The veterinary report provided to the RSPCA stated that all three donkeys displayed excessively overgrown hooves, based on neglect. Additional basic husbandry requirements, including worming, teeth and vaccinations, had been overlooked. The donkeys would have suffered a significant level of discomfort due to neglect in care.	The accused faced two charges: (1) causing suffering to animals and (2) failing to provide veterinary attention. The accused was ordered to pay $300 to the court fund, write a letter of gratitude to the informant and be of good behaviour.
1 June 2023	Dog (1)	Werribee Magistrates’ Court	In June 2021 the accused was found guilty of three counts of cruelty and disqualified from being the person in charge of any animal for a period of two years. The RSPCA responded to a report in February 2022 that the accused was in possession of a stolen dog. An RSPCA inspector followed up and reminded the accused of his disqualification. In June, council officers advised the RSPCA that the accused was in possession of two dogs. The RSPCA and Victoria Police executed a warrant at the property, seized the dog and transported him to the RSPCA.	The accused faced two charges: (1) failing to comply with the control order (disqualified for a period of two years being the person in charge of a dog); (2) failing to comply with an adjourned undertaking to be of good behaviour for 12 months from the previous offending. The accused pleaded guilty to both charges, was placed under a community correction order for a period of 12 months and required to perform 75 hours of community work. The accused is disqualified for a further period of two years from being the person in charge of any animal.

April 2023

Date	Type of animal	Court	Summary	Charges and outcome
17 April 2023	Dog (1)	Melbourne Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of a dog that was unable to stand, weight-bear or walk. An RSPCA inspector issued a Notice to Comply to have the dog assessed by a veterinarian. The accused did not comply with this requirement. On follow up, the RSPCA found the dog in emaciated condition with several open lesions. On examination by an RSPCA veterinarian, the dog was found to be suffering chronic starvation, gastrointestinal ulceration, urinary scalding and dehydration which had led to pain and suffering over a period of two to three weeks. The accused surrendered the dog to the RSPCA. Humane euthanasia was required.	The accused was charged with failing to provide veterinary treatment and aggravated cruelty. The accused was fined $3000 and disqualified from owning any animal for ten years.
20 April 2023	Dog (1)	Dandenong Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of a dog. An RSPCA inspector responded to a report and observed a dog with severely matted hair that was wet, cold and uncomfortable in the rain without shelter. The accused admitted that the dog had not been groomed for a year or more. The dog was surrendered to the RSPCA. On examination by an RSPCA veterinarian, the dog was found to have extensive wet matting over the body that required anaesthesia to be removed.	The accused charged with suffering being caused to a dog. The accused pleaded guilty, was placed on a good behaviour bond for 12 months without conviction and disqualified from being in charge of a dog for one year.
24 April 2023	Cat (1)	Shepparton Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of a cat. An RSPCA inspector responded to a report of an injured cat that was dragging its back leg. After executing a warrant, the inspector observed an abnormality of the rear left leg and the cat struggling to walk. On examination, an RSPCA veterinarian noted that the cat’s knee was inverted, causing severe bone degeneration, pain and suffering. Amputation of the limb was required to relieve the cat’s discomfort.	The accused was charged with failing to provide veterinary attention. The accused was fined $1000 with conviction, was disqualified from pet ownership for five years and ordered to surrender the cat. The accused was ordered to pay costs of $3705.

March 2023

Date	Type of animal	Court	Summary	Charges and outcome
22 March 2023	Dog (1)	Swan Hill Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of a dog with an injury to its neck. RSPCA inspectors responded to a report and observed on a long cable tether, attached to a chain. This chain was looped around the dog’s neck and deeply embedded in the dog’s flesh. The dog had no adequate shelter available. The dog was transported to the RSPCA and examined by a veterinarian. The chain was surgically removed under anaesthetic. The dog was surrendered to the RSPCA.	The accused was charged on three counts: causing pain or suffering to an animal; failing to provide food, drink or shelter; and failing to provide veterinary attention. The accused pleaded guilty, was fined $1750 without conviction and disqualified from dog ownership for ten years (except for one dog). The accused was ordered to pay costs of $2315.87.
30 March 2023	Dogs (2)	Sunshine Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of two dogs in contravention of a ten-year banning order. The accused was ordered to pay $200 to the court fund (August 2022). The court notified the RSPCA that the offender had not paid the fine and required the RSPCA to arrange for contravention proceedings to be initiated against the offender.	Under new orders, the $200 was converted to a fine and referred to Fines Victoria for collection and management.
31 March 2023	Cats (28)	Bendigo Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the person in charge of 28 cats. RSPCA inspectors attended the premises and found a large number of cats in a filthy environment. The RSPCA, Victoria Police and council attended and executed a warrant. Twenty-eight cats were removed and transferred to the RSPCA for veterinary examination. Humane euthanasia was required for four cats.	The accused was charged with crowding or confining the animals in insanitary conditions. The accused pleaded guilty and is subject to a monitoring order for 18 months. The accused surrendered 14 cats to the RSPCA.

February 2023

Date	Type of animal	Court	Summary	Charges and outcome
10 February 2023	Dogs (2) Cats and kittens (23)	Heidelberg Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the person in charge of two dogs and 23 cats and kittens. The RSPCA received a report about a dog in critical condition admitted for veterinary treatment. RSPCA inspectors attended the accused’s property and found seven cats and two dogs in underweight or emaciated condition, with a very heavy flea burden and hair loss. On follow-up, the RSPCA and the council officer found 23 cats and two dogs in poor condition, housed in squalid conditions. The dogs, cats and kittens were seized. On examination by an RSPCA veterinarian, the animals were determined to have been without adequate nutrition for at least three weeks. Humane euthanasia was required for one cat. The accused surrendered 17 animals to the RSPCA and six were released to the family, on condition that no animal was returned to the accused’s premises.	The accused was charged on four counts: confining the animals in insanitary conditions; causing pain and suffering to the animals; failing to provide food, drink or shelter; and failing to provide veterinary attention. The accused was placed on a good behaviour bond for 12 months with conviction and disqualified from any animal ownership for ten years.
16 February 2023	Dogs and puppies (12)	Heidelberg Magistrates’ Court	The accused lived with the co-accused, who was the owner of three dogs. RSPCA inspectors identified two dogs in very thin condition and a third dog with skin complications. The third dog was tethered without appropriate shelter or water. Notices to Comply directed the owner to provide veterinary care and shelter for the dogs. The accused did not comply with this direction. RSPCA inspectors executed a search warrant and seized all three dogs for veterinary treatment, together with nine underage pups still dependent on one dog. The accused admitted there was no dog food on the premises. On examination by an RSPCA veterinarian, one dog was found to have bilateral ear infection, mild conjunctivitis, fly-bitten ear tips and chronic flea bite dermatitis. Two dogs were emaciated: one was nursing nine 5-week- old puppies.	The accused was charged on two counts: failing to provide food and failing to provide veterinary attention. The accused was fined $2000 with conviction and disqualified from owning a dog for five years. The case against the co-accused is still to be heard.
23 February 2023	Dog (1)	Sunshine Magistrates’ Court	The accused and co-accused were the persons in charge of a dog. The accused abandoned the dog in a box on the side of a road in very hot weather. Council officers responded to a report from a witness of a dog that was struggling to walk and in very poor condition. On examination by a veterinarian, the dog had severe live maggot infestation, advanced dental disease and arthritis. RSPCA inspectors determined that the accused had owned the dog for three years and had never taken her to a veterinarian. The accused expressed remorse that he had abandoned the dog.	The accused was charged on two counts: abandoning an animal and failing to provide veterinary attention. The accused was placed on a good behaviour bond for a period of 2.5 years without conviction, disqualified from dog ownership for five years and ordered to donate $4000 to the court fund. The case against the co-accused is still to be heard.

December 2022

Date	Type of animal	Court	Summary	Charges and outcome
02 December 2022	Horses (7)	Maryborough Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of seven horses, including a foal. RSPCA inspectors identified a horse with a flesh wound and a second horse in poor body condition with a pronounced limp. The lame horse had maggots in her left hind hoof and was unable to stand on that leg. Humane euthanasia was required. The RSPCA seized three horses, one of them in foal. These have been in RSPCA care for almost two years.	The accused was charged with five charges of cruelty to three horses. The accused was fined $5000 without conviction and the four horses were surrendered to the RSPCA.
8 December 2022	Dog (1)	Ringwood Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the person in charge of a dog showing significant signs of neglect with lack of proper food, grooming and veterinary care. On RSPCA inspection, the dog was underweight, matted, had a growing lump on her chest and had severe bad breath. The dog was surrendered to the RSPCA. Humane euthanasia was required.	The accused pleaded guilty to three charges: failure to provide veterinary attention; failure to provide sufficient food; failure to seek dental care and grooming for a dog. The accused was fined $10,000 without conviction, disqualified from being in charge of any animal for ten years, and is subject to a monitoring order for ten years. The accused was ordered to pay costs of $313.50.
19 December 2022	Dog (1)	Sunshine Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of a dog. RSPCA inspectors attended the premises with Victoria Police and the council, and located a dog that was weak and severely emaciated. The accused surrendered this dog and another dog to the RSPCA.	The accused was found guilty with conviction, placed on a good behaviour bond for 12 months and disqualified from dog ownership for five years.
19 December 2022	Cats (7) Ferret (1) Rabbit (1) Budgerigar (1) Dog (1)	Shepparton Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of a number of animals. On inspection, the RSPCA observed seven cats confined to various bedrooms within the dwelling with no access to ventilation and a strong smell of ammonia and a dog in the backyard with insufficient shelter. Inspectors also found an underweight ferret and a rabbit in insanitary conditions with urine and faecal build-up. In addition, a budgerigar with an overgrown top beak was found. The RSPCA inspector issued Notices to Comply but the owner failed to meet the requirements over a period of 10 days and two more visits. The animals were seized by the RSPCA. Humane euthanasia was required for the budgerigar.	The accused was fined $3500 and disqualified from being the person in charge of any domestic animal for ten years. All animals were surrendered to the RSPCA.
20 December 2022	Dogs (2)	Melbourne Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of two dogs. In April 2022 RSPCA inspectors attended in response to a report of dogs yelping and crying. The owner was provided advice about correct handling and offences under law. RSPCA inspectors attended again in July 2022 after additional reports of ill-treatment including audio recordings of the accused yelling at both dogs, followed by a banging or hitting noise that suggested the animals being struck, followed by yelping and crying from the dog(s). The accused was also witnessed in a local park where the dog displayed obvious signs of fear. RSPCA inspectors executed a warrant and the dogs were seized due to their welfare being at risk.	The accused was placed on a good behaviour bond for 12 months without conviction, ordered to donate $1000 to the RSPCA, and disqualified from owning a dog for one year. The accused was ordered to pay costs of $3305.30.
21 December 2022	Cats and kittens (30)	Sunshine Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the person in charge of more than thirty cats and kittens confined to a garage and dwelling. In May 2020 RSPCA inspectors attended in response to reports. The garage and dwelling were overcrowded, unclean and had a strong stench of excrement and decay. The accused failed to have any of the animals vaccinated, to isolate sick cats and kittens, or maintain hygienic living conditions to prevent the spread of disease. RSPCA inspectors removed ten live cats from the property, as well as thirty-one dead cats and kittens. In April and May 2021 the accused presented several sick cats and kittens for veterinary treatment. The RSPCA attended the property with council officers. Living conditions were filthy and smelled of excrement and necrosis. Officers located 12 live cats and kittens, and at least ten dead cats and kittens. Sick cats were housed communally, and access to food, water and litter trays was communal. Brimbank Council seized all twelve live cats and kittens. RSPCA Inspectors, council and police have attended the property many times between 2017 and 2021. The accused actively entices and harbours stray/unvaccinated cats and kittens at the property in poor conditions, without any disease control measures. Pathology and veterinary findings since 2017 show that the property is contaminated with many serious and contagious disease pathogens, making it a biohazard to house or harbour cats or kittens at the property, especially those that are unvaccinated.	The accused was convicted, placed on a community corrections order for a period of 12 months including 100 hours of community work, disqualified from owning a cat or kitten for ten years except for two cats currently owned who are to be desexed and vaccinated, and sentenced to a monitoring order for 10 years.
23 December 2022	Dog (1)	Sunshine Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of a puppy placed for sale online. The advertisement did not contain details of the microchip implanted into the animal and the accused did not have a valid source number as required when advertising a puppy for sale in Victoria. The accused sold the puppy for $1500 instead of $3000, to compensate the purchaser for the cost of any veterinary treatment required from an existing leg injury. A veterinary assessment uncovered a transverse fracture of the tibia and fibula of her left hind leg. The RSPCA interviewed the accused who admitted to failing to provide veterinary care for the limping dog.	The accused was handed a three-month diversion, ordered to donate $500 to the RSPCA and pay costs of $120. The co-accused was sentenced in September 2022.

November 2022

Date	Type of animal	Court	Summary	Charges and outcome
2 November 2022	Cats (multiple)		The accused kept a large quantity of cats in various locations including her parents’ home, the Salvation Army hostel, a commercial storage container, her car and the Lort Smith Animal Hospital. RSPCA Victoria has housed the cats for years as the accused has succeeded in adjourning the court cases.	The court granted the RSPCA application to become the owner of the cats.
2 November 2022	Dog (1)		The accused was the owner of a dog that was seized by the RSPCA after inspectors attended a number of times. The dog was in poor condition and required teeth extraction.	The court returned the dog to the owner on condition that the owner returns to court in six months’ time, proves the dog has had veterinary treatment and the RSPCA has no concerns with its husbandry.
11 November 2022	Dog (1)	Wonthaggi Magistrates’ Court	The plaintiff was the owner of a small dog that was kicked by the accused in the hind leg. The owner noticed that dog was in severe pain and sought veterinary treatment. The injury was confirmed as a fracture to the left hind femur bone and required surgical repair.	The accused was charged with wounding an animal by kicking. The accused was fined $100 without conviction and ordered to pay compensation of $2199.50 to the plaintiff.
17 November 2022	Dog (1)	Frankston Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of a dog that escaped from his home, was caught and impounded. The dog was discovered to have multiple serious medical conditions including eye damage, infected paws, and serious conditions related to his ears and his anus. Further examination revealed severe arthritis, hip dysplasia and permanent ear damage from infection. Humane euthanasia was required.	The accused was charged with one count of animal cruelty. The accused pleaded guilty, was given a good behaviour bond for 18 months and disqualified from being the person in charge of a dog for three years. The accused was ordered to donate $1500 to the RSPCA.
17 November 2022	Cat (1)	Frankston Magistrates’ Court	The accused and co-accused were the owners of a cat. RSPCA inspectors found that the cat had a large open and necrotic flesh wound covering his neck, chest and shoulder area. The cat was also wearing an old, plastic cone collar that was digging into the skin. One of the accused admitted that the wound was approximately 12 months old. The cat was surrendered to the RSPCA.	The accused and co-accused were each charged with one count of animal cruelty. Both accused pleaded guilty, were placed on a good behaviour bond for 12 months and disqualified from being in charge of a cat for ten years. The accused were ordered to pay costs.
29 November 2022	Dog (1)	Melbourne Magistrates’ Court	The accused was caught on video kicking a dog at a protest. RSPCA inspectors followed up on the dog’s wellbeing.	The accused was placed on a good behaviour bond for 12 months without conviction and ordered to donate $2000 to the Lort Smith Animal Hospital. The accused was ordered to pay costs of $7000.
30 November 2022	Horses (6)	Ballarat Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of six horses. The horses were located at four different properties and RSPCA inspectors attended the various properties nine times. One horse had muscle wastage of the rump, his ribs were easily visible, and he had a prominent backbone. This horse was subsequently found deceased in the paddock. Another horse was too weak to stand, most likely from starvation. On six separate inspections in 2019, the horses were all seen to have lost more weight and body condition, and there was no compliance with the veterinary feed plan. The supplementary food being provided was grossly inadequate for four horses, and in addition the horses had pressure sores and lice infestations from lack of basic husbandry. The accused and co-accused were unable to confirm compliance with the feeding advice provided by the veterinarian and all four horses were seized by the RSPCA.	The accused was charged with six charges for the first offence and seven charges for a later offence. The 13 charges were consolidated to six charges including aggravated cruelty and proceeded as a guilty plea. The accused was sentenced to a community corrections order for two years including 200 hours of community service, and disqualified from caring for or owning horses for five years. The accused and co-accused (10 March 2022) were fined $5000.
30 November 2022	Dog (1)	Geelong Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the person in charge of a dead dog taken to a veterinary clinic for disposal. The RSPCA followed up on pathology reports of clearly visible wounds, widespread deep skin ulceration and pressure sores.	The accused was charged on two counts: failure to provide veterinary attention and aggravated cruelty to the dog. The accused pleaded guilty, was fined $3000, disqualified from being in charge of any animal for five years, and is subject to monitoring for five years.
30 November 2022	Horses (3)	Werribee Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of three horses. The co-accused assisted her and owned horses of her own. An RSPCA inspector saw three horses in severely underweight condition in a paddock with no natural pasture. A Notice to Comply was issued for the provision of proper and sufficient food. On request from the RSPCA, a veterinarian attended and confirmed that the horse was severely emaciated and had been chronically neglected and starved for a substantial period. The horse was also diagnosed with dehydration and poor dentition. On follow up, the horse was seen recumbent. Humane euthanasia was required.	The accused was handed a six-month diversion, ordered to pay $300 to the court fund, and required to provide proof of a mental health care plan from a medical provider. The accused is no longer involved with or owns horses. The co-accused has a court hearing in May 2023.

October 2022

Date

Type of animal

Court

Summary

Charges and outcome

04 October 2022

Dog (1)

Heidelberg Magistrates’ Court

The accused was the owner of a recumbent dog making audible breathing and lying in her own urine and faeces, unable to lift her head. On RSPCA inspection, the owner surrendered the dog to the RSPCA.

On examination by an RSPCA veterinarian, the dog was suffering from osteoarthritis, resulting in disuse atrophy of her muscles, and increasing biochemical changes and toxicity from tissue damage. The dog had maggot strike around her vulva from a urine scald that was infected and oozing, a swollen anus, an infected tooth, and a heart murmur. Humane euthanasia was required.

The accused was charged with failure to provide veterinary treatment for her dog. The accused was found guilty without conviction and fined $1000. The accused was ordered to pay costs of $1073.74.

07 October 2022

Cow (1)

Sunshine Magistrates’ Court

RSPCA inspectors received a report of a cow lying in a ditch on the side of the road. The cow was unable to stand and had two broken back legs. Humane euthanasia by the RSPCA was required.

The owner of the cow made verbal admissions to the inspectors that he had hit the cow with his car.

The accused had passed away before sentencing was finalised.

September 2022

Date of case	Type of animal	Court	Case details	Charges and sentence
06 September 2022	Dog (1)	Melbourne Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of a dog left unattended in a hot car on a 34.5 degree day. Action by Victoria Police and City of Melbourne officers rescued the dog that was in respiratory distress. The dog received veterinary treatment at the Lort Smith Animal Hospital in the Intensive Care Unit for 12 hours once removed. The dog’s temperature was extremely high at 41.8 degrees and the gums were cyanotic.	The accused was convicted and fined $1100. The accused was ordered to pay costs of $5511.68.
07 September 2022	Dog (1)	Ringwood Magistrates’ Court	The accused and co-accused were the owners of a morbidly obese dog. RSPCA inspectors observed the dog to have significant fat deposits on her tail, a huge round belly, and carrying excess weight. She also had a growth on her left front leg that was slightly bigger than the size of a golf ball. After seven follow-up visits, the RSPCA issued a Notice to Comply for the owners to seek veterinary treatment. However, in subsequent visits the dog’s condition had not improved and the dog was seized by the RSPCA. Examination by an RSPCA veterinarian found the dog to be approximately 50% overweight.	The accused and co-accused were each charged on three counts: (1) failure to provide veterinary treatment; (2) failure to provide proper food; (3) causing pain or suffering to an animal. Both accused were found guilty with conviction, fined $1800 and disqualified from being in charge of any animal for eight years. The accused were each ordered to pay costs of $687.53.
29 September 2022	Dog (1)	Sunshine Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of a puppy placed for sale online. The co-accused undertook all communication with the purchaser and conducted the sale of the puppy. The advertisement did not contain details of the microchip implanted into the animal and the accused did not have a valid source number as required when advertising a puppy for sale in Victoria. The accused sold the puppy for $1500 instead of $3000, to compensate the purchaser for the cost of any veterinary treatment required from an existing leg injury. A veterinary assessment uncovered a transverse fracture of the tibia and fibula of her left hind leg. The RSPCA interviewed the accused and co-accused who admitted to failing to provide veterinary care for the limping dog.	The co-accused was placed on a good behaviour bond for 12 months without conviction and required to donate $250 to the court fund. The accused was sentenced in December 2022.
29 September 2022	Dog (1)	Sunshine Magistrates’ Court	The accused and co-accused were the owners of a dog suffering from a chronic skin condition with very red, inflamed skin and significant hair loss over most of her body. RSPCA inspectors also observed a growth on the dog’s groin that was ulcerated and oozing. The RSPCA issued a Notice to Comply for the owners to seek veterinary treatment. On follow-up, the dog’s condition was unchanged and the dog was seized by the RSPCA. On examination by an RSPCA veterinarian, the dog was found to have been suffering with the skin disease and large mammary mass for a long time. The dog was surrendered to the RSPCA.	The accused was convicted, fined $1000 and disqualified from dog ownership for three years. The accused was ordered to pay costs of $1400. The co-accused was convicted, fined $1000 and disqualified from owning a dog for five years. The co-accused had a prior conviction for a dog attack and was subsequently placed on a banning order for longer than the accused. The co-accused was ordered to pay costs of $1400.

August 2022

Date of case	Type of animal	Court	Case details	Charges and sentence
3 August 2022	Dog (1)	Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court	The RSPCA attended after a report of an injured dog. The accused was the owner of the dog and was uncooperative with the inspection. The RSPCA executed a search warrant and inspected the dog. The dog was found to have a small circular wound to his left hip area. Due to the injury and the dog’s welfare being at risk, the dog was seized by the RSPCA. On examination by an RSPCA veterinarian, the small circular wound was consistent with thermal injury/burn.	The accused was placed on a good behaviour bond for 12 months without conviction and surrendered the dog to the RSPCA. The accused was ordered to pay costs of $3704.22.
5 August 2022	Dog (1)	Sunshine Magistrates’ Court	RSPCA inspectors were called to a property where the accused had previously resided. The accused was the person in charge of a dog. The dog was extremely emaciated, with ribs, spine and pelvis prominent and evident from a distance. The dog was recumbent, cold to the touch and barely responsive. The dog was immediately seized by the RSPCA. On examination by an RSPCA veterinarian, the dog was found to be hypothermic, severely emaciated, and extremely dehydrated, as well as suffering a heavy flea burden. Intensive veterinary care and treatment commenced, but the dog passed away three days later.	The accused was convicted and sentenced to a community corrections order for 12 months, with 200 hours of community work and 50 hours of mental health treatment to be credited toward the 200 hours. The accused was disqualified from owning a dog for ten years and is subject to a monitoring order for ten years. The accused was ordered to pay costs of $1920.69.
8 August 2022	Dogs (2) Puppies (10)	Dandenong Magistrates’ Court	The accused and co-accused were the owners of two dogs and ten puppies. RSPCA inspectors attended a property and found a male dog with a skin condition, an ear infection and hair loss. Inspectors advised the accused and co-accused to seek veterinary treatment. On follow-up, the RSPCA issued a Notice to Comply. On re-inspection, RSPCA inspectors found a second female dog with 10 three-week-old puppies, living in poor conditions with a large faecal and urine build-up in the garage. The dogs and puppies were seized by the RSPCA. On examination by an RSPCA veterinarian, the male dog was found to have chronic dermatitis and otitis externa, and the female dog was in poor condition.	The accused were convicted, fined $1200 each and disqualified from dog ownership for five years. The accused were ordered to pay costs of $9091.90.
17 August 2022	Dogs (2)	Sunshine Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner and person in charge of two dogs in contravention of a ten-year banning order. RSPCA Victoria attended the premises and spoke with the accused who admitted to being in charge of a dog in contravention of the order. The dog was seized and later surrendered. The other dog was in kennels and not subject to these charges.	The accused was convicted, sentenced to a good behaviour bond for 12 months and fined $200.
18 August 2022	Possums	Frankston Magistrates’ Court	The accused was found by investigative officers from the Greyhound Racing Integrity Unit of Greyhound Racing Victoria (GRV) to have live possums in cages on his property. Interviewed by an RSPCA inspector, the accused denied that live baiting had ever occurred at his property.	The accused was convicted, fined $500 and ordered to pay costs of $87.20. The co-accused was sentenced in July 2022.
22 August 2022	Cat (1)	Ballarat Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of a cat reported to the RSPCA by the Victoria Police. The cat had a large hairless area on its face, with a raw wound extending down its neck and around the eye. After advising the owner unsuccessfully to seek veterinary treatment, RSPCA inspectors seized the cat and the RSPCA veterinarian determined that the extensive wound on the face and neck had not received veterinary treatment. Upon medical examination, she was found to be suffering from a painful, highly contagious, bacterial infection.	The accused was found guilty without conviction, fined $300 and ordered to pay $200 compensation to RSPCA Victoria.
22 August 2022	Dog (1)	Ballarat Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of a dog reported to the RSPCA. RSPCA inspectors advised the owner to seek veterinary help for the dog’s missing fur along his back, rump and tail with thick blackened and flaky skin visible. On follow-up, the dog was seized by the RSPCA and given medical attention.	The accused was found guilty without conviction, fined $400 and ordered to pay $300 compensation to RSPCA Victoria.
25 August 2022	Cat (1)	Melbourne Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of a cat reported to the RSPCA. The cat had generalised alopecia, scabs all over her body and her head. She was also lame on her left hind leg, unwilling to walk far and in significant pain. RSPCA inspectors seized the cat for immediate veterinary examination and treatment. On examination, an RSPCA veterinarian noted that ligaments in the leg were ruptured, requiring an amputation. The cat also required treatment for alopecia (fur loss) and ringworm.	The accused was convicted, fined $2500, disqualified from any animal ownership for five years and subject to a monitoring order for five years. The accused was ordered to pay costs of $4972.98. The RSPCA was granted ownership of the cat.

July 2022

Date of case	Type of animal	Court	Case details	Charges and sentence
8 July 2022	Cats (2) Blue-tongued lizard (1) Dogs (2) Budgerigars (4)	Sunshine Magistrates’ Court	The accused and co-accused were in charge of a dog, two cats, a blue-tongued lizard and four budgerigars. The co-accused was in charge of another dog as well. The RSPCA inspector issued instructions to clean up the living environment for the animals and treat the dogs for fleas. On follow-up, the inspector observed that the animals’ living conditions had not improved and that enclosures in the back yard contained the decomposed remains of several animals and a ferret housed in filthy conditions without adequate food. Two Notices to Comply were issued regarding housing and proper feeding. The RSPCA re-attended the property with Victoria Police and observed squalid living conditions. One dog was extremely unwell and it was seized. The RSPCA subsequently executed a warrant at the property and all animals were seized.	The accused pleaded guilty to four charges of inadequate and improper housing. The accused was found guilty without conviction, fined $1000 (aggregate) on all four charges and disqualified from owning animals for 12 months.
15 July 2022	Dog (1)	Ringwood Magistrates’ Court	The accused was observed in a shopping strip to carry the dog by the scruff of its neck for approximately 15 metres at walking pace, back to the car. The accused then struck the dog in the face with a closed fist four times before locking to dog in the car. The dog did not appear to suffer any ongoing injury as a result of the assault.	The accused was fined $500 without conviction.
28 July 2022	Brushtail possums	Seymour Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of a racing greyhound. The accused transported a live brushtail possum to the co-accused, a greyhound trainer, for the purpose of blooding or training the greyhound, and allowed the possum to be pursued and killed. The accused continued to supply the trainer with live brushtail possums on at least nine further occasions. Investigative officers from the Greyhound Racing Integrity Unit of Greyhound Racing Victoria (GRV) attended the co-accused’s premises, where caged brushtail possums were found. The accused was interviewed under caution by an RSPCA inspector. The accused admitted to trapping possums and to supplying them to the co-accused.	The accused was convicted and fined $1800. The court advised that had the accused not pleaded guilty, the penalty would have been greater than $3000.
28 July 2022	Dogs (4)	St Arnaud Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of four dogs. On RSPCA inspection, three of the dogs were thin with the fourth dog in reasonable body condition. On follow-up, the RSPCA determined the fourth dog had started to lose weight. The RSPCA re-attended the property and a Notice to Comply was issued to improve the dogs’ body condition. On re-inspection, the dogs were seized. The RSPCA veterinarian noted that one dog was suffering from starvation, a second from starvation and flea allergy dermatitis, a third from starvation, an intestinal worm burden and flea allergy dermatitis, and a fourth from starvation and a heavy intestinal worm burden, flea allergy dermatitis and a ruptured anal sac abscess. The lack of food and preventative health care directly led to the ill health, pain and suffering of these four dogs.	There were three charges laid . The accused pleaded guilty to a single charge of failure to provide proper and sufficient food to his four dogs. The accused was fined $750 on the cruelty charge, disqualified from owning a dog for five years (except for one) and a monitoring order for five years. The accused surrendered the four dogs in the court.

June 2022

Date of case	Type of animal	Court	Case details	Charges and sentence
1 June 2022	Dog (1)	County Court of Victoria in Melbourne	This case was heard on appeal (refer to 14 February 2022). The accused presented a four-year-old German Shepherd for veterinary treatment in January 2017. The dog weighed 44.3 kg and was diagnosed with atopy and secondary infection as a result of scratching, and placed on a course of treatment. In October 2020, a RSPCA inspector attended the premises in response to a report of a German Shepherd limping and with multiple wounds. The dog was emaciated with his hips, ribs and spine bones easily observed. The dog had multiple large necrotic, purulent wounds over his neck, ribs, and hips, was panting heavily and covered in flies. The accused surrendered Bobby to the RSPCA. On examination by a RSPCA veterinarian, the dog was found to have extensive ulcerated lesions across its body, invoking a chronic primary skin condition that was allowed to become infected. Humane euthanasia was required.	The accused was fined $15,000 and disqualified from owning any animal for ten years. The accused was ordered to pay costs of $1542.87.
2 June 2022	Dog (1)	Broadmeadows Magistrates’ Court	RSPCA attended after reports of a dog yelping at the premises and being inappropriately confined with no shelter. RSPCA inspectors instructed the accused, who was the owner of the dog, to provide shelter and water to the dog and to comply with the tethering regulations, via a Notice to Comply. On follow-up, RSPCA inspectors attended the premises with members of Victoria Police. The accused had not complied with the instructions and the RSPCA seized the dog. The dog was unable to be rehabilitated and humane euthanasia was required.	The accused was convicted and disqualified from any animal ownership for two years.
2 June 2022	Cats (3) Kitten (1)	Broadmeadows Magistrates’ Court	The RSPCA received a report of abandoned animals from a real estate agent; three adult cats and a kitten were seized from that property. Humane euthanasia was required for the kitten. Examination by an RSPCA veterinarian noted lack of care or proper diet. Ownership of the cats was released to the RSPCA.	The accused was found guilty with conviction, fined $500 as part of an aggregate order and disqualified from being in charge of any dog or cat for five years. The court noted that the accused had previously committed an offence for allowing a dog to roam, which the magistrate said was an indication of past neglect.
14 June 2022	Horse (1)	Dandenong Magistrates’ Court	The RSPCA received a report of an underweight horse housed in a paddock. On inspection, the RSPCA observed three horses in good condition and a fourth horse that appeared to be aged with a loss of some body condition. On follow-up a few weeks later, the RSPCA noted that the mare had lost condition, and was in a moderate to poor condition. As it was an aged horse, the RSPCA did not hold immediate welfare concerns. However, the accused was advised by the Inspector of the benefits of getting an equine health check. On follow-up one month later, the RSPCA found the horse had deteriorated in condition and was now skeletal. The accused was issued with a Notice to Comply to seek veterinary examination or humane euthanasia within 48 hours. When the accused failed to comply, the RSPCA requested a veterinarian to attend. The horse was suffering from dental disease, oral ulcerations, long and sharp teeth, and had painful ringbone arthritis. Humane euthanasia was required.	The accused was convicted, fined $2000 and a monitoring order for one year. The accused was ordered to pay costs of $4517.
16 June 2022	Dog (1)	Frankston Magistrates’ Court	The RSPCA received a report of a dog that was underweight and unable to use its back legs. On inspection, the accused claimed that her son had hit the dog and slammed a gate on it. The dog was limping and had deteriorated over the past few weeks, but the accused had not sought veterinary attention. The dog’s rear legs were dangling from the body and the dog could not move them. The dog was surrendered to the RSPCA. On examination at the RSPCA Veterinary Clinic, the dog was assessed as being in severe pain and suffering, with multiple bone fractures over her entire body, partial paralysis of the back legs, incontinence, and nerve damage, as well as urine scalding affecting two-thirds of her body. Humane euthanasia was required.	The accused was placed on a good behaviour bond for a period of 12 months without conviction, sentenced to a ten-year disqualification from owning a dog and required to donate $500 to the RSPCA.
22 June 2022	Dog (1)	County Court of Victoria at Melbourne	This case was heard on appeal (refer to 12 April 2022). The accused was the co-owner of a puppy that was surrendered to the Lost Dogs Home. On examination, the puppy was suffering from multiple untreated fractures to both hind legs. Humane euthanasia was required.	The accused was found guilty, fined $15,000, disqualified from animal ownership for ten years and subject to a monitoring order for ten years.
27 June 2022	Dog (1)	Shepparton Magistrates’ Court	An RSPCA inspector observed the dog to be emaciated with ribs, spine and hips clearly visible. The accused had no dog food at the premises. The accused was issued a Notice to Comply to have the dog seen by a veterinarian. RSPCA inspectors attended the premises on three more occasions to monitor the dog’s progress. The dog had gained weight with the provision of proper and sufficient food. Twelve months later, RSPCA attended the premises after receiving another report and observed the same dog to once again be emaciated and to have a heavy flea burden with hair loss from allergic dermatitis. The accused had failed to seek veterinary treatment. The dog was seized for immediate veterinary treatment. The RSPCA veterinarian found the dog to be emaciated and suffering from a skin condition. The accused surrendered the dog to the RSPCA.	The accused was placed on a good behaviour bond for two years without conviction and disqualified from dog ownership for five years (except for one currently owned dog). The accused was ordered to pay costs of $2359.60.
30 June 2022	Dog (1)	Sunshine Magistrates’ Court	The accused tied the dog’s muzzle tightly closed by using a cable tie. He then tethered the dog with a rope attached to the dog’s collar. The dog was left alone in the back yard, became distressed and tried to jump the fence. The dog was found hanging by his collar from the fence and was released. The council was contacted and transported the dog to a veterinary clinic. On examination, the dog was emaciated and the cable tie caused the dog distress, pain and suffering. The dog was surrendered to Brimbank Council, and the matter was referred to the RSPCA. Humane euthanasia was required.	The accused was convicted, fined $2000 and disqualified for two years from dog ownership.
30 June 2022	Dog (1)	Frankston Magistrates’ Court	The accused failed to provide reasonable veterinary treatment to a dog attacked by another dog at her dog boarding facility, by not providing immediate or prompt veterinary treatment.	The accused was placed on a six-month diversion order and ordered to donate $500 to the RSPCA.

May 2022

Date of case	Type of animal	Court	Case details	Charges and sentence
13 May 2022	Kittens (48)	Melbourne Magistrates’ Court	The accused and co-accused purchased kittens (including sick kittens) from other breeders and on-sold them to members of the public.	The accused and co-accused were found guilty on 48 charges, fined a cumulative total of $22,000 and disqualified from being the owner or person in charge of any cats (including kittens) for a period of ten years. A monitoring order was imposed for 10 years to monitor compliance with the banning order. In addition, both were given a banning order under the Domestic Animals Act (DAA), banning them from keeping or selling any cats (including kittens) for a period of 10 years, and are prohibited from conducting or working in any domestic animal business for that period The accused were ordered to pay costs of $100,914.
17 May 2022	Dogs (3)	County Court of Victoria	The accused was the owner of three dogs. RSPCA inspectors attended the premises in response to a report of an unwell dog. Inspectors saw an aged dog in emaciated body condition, with ribs, hips and spine prominent. No one was present. A week later, RSPCA was notified that another dog of the same address had been removed from a veterinary clinic against veterinary advice. The RSPCA was able to confirm that the owner of the first dog was the same individual. Attempts to contact the owner were unsuccessful. RSPCA inspectors returned to the premises together with officers of Victoria Police and executed a search warrant. one RSPCA inspector was the only officer able to enter the premises due to the volume of accumulated items stored throughout the premises. The inspector located three dogs inside the dwelling, all appearing in poor health and underweight. The dogs were seized on welfare grounds. On examination by a RSPCA veterinarian, all three dogs were found to be emaciated or close to emaciated. They had heavy flea burdens and associated anaemia.	The accused was ordered to pay $15,000 to the RSPCA, placed on a 12-month good behaviour bond and a monitoring order for five years.
18 May 2022	Feral pig (1)	Shepparton Magistrates’ Court	The accused stabbed a feral pig to death whilst encouraging his dog to attack the pig. The RSPCA Inspectorate received multiple reports in relation to video footage and associated photographs posted on social media by the accused. The accused stated that the pig hunting method was ‘pig-sticking’ and believed this method was a legal method of hunting.	The accused was granted a diversion, and was required to be of good behaviour for a period of 12 months, donate $400 to the RSPCA within three months and write a letter of gratitude to the informant.
20 May 2022	Dog (1)	Melbourne Magistrates’ Court	The accused owned a dog that was viewed by RSPCA inspectors to be in thin body condition. The owner opted to surrender the dog to the RSPCA. Examination by an RSPCA veterinarian found that the dog was underweight and suffering from a mammary tumour and dental disease.	The accused was charged with failing to provide veterinary treatment to a dog. This case was consolidated with other police charges against the accused. The accused entered a guilty plea to a single charge of failing to provide veterinary treatment to a dog.
24 May 2022	Dog (1)	Korumburra Magistrates’ Court	The accused operated a boarding facility and used an electronic shock collar improperly to stop a dog barking. This was done without the dog owner’s permission and without prior approval of a veterinarian. The dog was found deceased in the kennel when the owner arrived to collect the dog. The accused removed the collar prior to the owner seeing the dog. After a post-mortem, the pathologist stated that while it was unlikely that the electronic collar could cause the severe injury, it could not be ruled out.	The accused was found guilty without conviction, placed on a twelve-month good behaviour bond and required to donate $1000 to the RSPCA.
30 May	Dog (1)	Geelong Magistrates’ Court	The RSPCA received a report regarding the accused beating a dog on a footpath. A witness filmed the accused punching the dog multiple times. The accused was not the owner of and had returned the dog to the owner. On RSPCA inspection, the dog did not appear to sustain any physical injuries as a result of the incident.	The accused was sentenced to a community corrections order for 12 months, subject to several conditions.

April 2022

Date of case	Type of animal	Court	Case details	Charges and sentence
7 April 2022	Dog (1)	Melbourne Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of a dog that was emaciated with a large abscess on his neck. The accused did not seek veterinary attention until the abscess ruptured with a purulent and bloody discharge. Veterinary examination found the dog was extremely underweight with a prominent spine and ribs and a very dull demeanour. Humane euthanasia was required.	The accused pleaded guilty, was fined $7500 with conviction and disqualified from owning a domestic animal for ten years.
11 April 2022	Dog (1)	Melbourne Magistrates’ Court	The RSPCA received a report of a dog being beaten. On examination, RSPCA Inspectors noted that the dog was bleeding from the nose. The owner and co-owner agreed to surrender the dog to the RSPCA. The dog was returned to the owner but surrendered again a few months later to the RSPCA.	The accused was fined $1250 without conviction and disqualified from owning a dog for five years. The accused was ordered to pay costs of $1698.12.
12 April 2022	Dog (1)	Sunshine Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the co-owner of a puppy that was surrendered to the Lost Dogs Home. On examination, the puppy was suffering from multiple untreated fractures to both hind legs. Humane euthanasia was required.	The accused was charged with aggravated cruelty. The court noted that the seriousness of the offending was too severe not to warrant imprisonment. The accused was sentenced to three months’ imprisonment and a community corrections order for 18 months with 200 hours of work, a ten-year disqualification from owning any animal and a monitoring order for ten years.
28 April 2022	Rabbits (100) Chickens and ducks (32) Rooster (1) Ponies (2) Goat (1)	Sunshine Magistrates’ Court	RSPCA inspectors attended the premises eight times in 2019. Animals were housed in very poor conditions, without access to adequate food, water or veterinary attention. The accused was instructed on each occasion about proper care and husbandry of all the animals. Approximately 100 domestic rabbits were kept in dark, damp, overcrowded and dirty conditions, some with infections that required veterinary treatment. Three Notices to Comply were issued to the accused to improve the conditions and to provide food and water for the rabbits. On follow-up visits, the accused surrendered 25 rabbits to the RSPCA including one rabbit that was emaciated and flat in demeanour. On examination by the RSPCA veterinarian, the rabbit was suffering from a large, golf ball sized abscess involving most of its mouth. Humane euthanasia was required. On follow-up inspections, the RSPCA observed goats, ducks and chickens without access to water or suitable food. The RSPCA also observed two and several goats with overgrown hooves. A Notice to Comply was issued to ensure all hooved animals were examined by a farrier and ensure none were left in pain or suffering. The accused did not have the goats treated according to the Notice to Comply. On one inspection, RSPCA inspectors observed a recumbent goat in obvious distress. The accused refused to surrender the goat; the accused was issued with a Notice to Comply to have the goat examined by a veterinarian the same day. Humane euthanasia was required.	The accused was fined $3000 without conviction, disqualified from any animal ownership for ten years and subject to monitoring for ten years. The accused is allowed to keep 7 chickens, 2 ducks, a dog and 30 goats. The accused was ordered to pay costs of $872.35.

March 2022

Date of case	Type of animal	Court	Case details	Charges and sentence
9 March 2022	Dogs (2)	Melbourne Magistrates’ Court	The RSPCA attended a property where two dogs required veterinary attention for chronic, severely fly bitten ears. On follow up, the RSPCA issued a Notice to Comply. Only one dog was treated and the owner failed to appear at the next scheduled veterinary appointment. Both dogs were seized by the RSPCA.	The accused was fined $1200 without conviction and granted the application to transfer the ownership of the dogs to the RSPCA. This case was finalised after six previous hearings.
10 March 2022	Horses (4)	Ballarat Magistrates’ Court	The accused and co-accused were responsible for the care of four horses. The RSPCA issued Notices to Comply to improve the condition of the horses and to provide veterinary attention. RSPCA inspectors attended on six separate occasions; a subsequent visit with a veterinarian resulted in the four horses being seized. The accused later surrendered a fifth horse and confirmed that another horse had died.	The accused was fined $5000 without conviction and disqualified from owning or caring for any horses for a period of five years.
18 March 2022	Kittens (2)	Benalla Magistrates’ Court	The accused and co-accused were the owners of two kittens. The RSPCA attended in response to a report that the tenants had vacated the premises leaving two dead kittens in the bathroom. Under questioning by the RSPCA inspector, neither of the accused had any knowledge of the basic minimum requirements and standards for keeping domestic kittens. Veterinary examination determined the likely cause of death of both animals to be starvation, dehydration, and eventual emaciation and death.	The accused and co-accused were placed on a 12-month good behaviour bond and disqualified from owning any animal for ten years. The accused and co-accused were ordered to pay costs of $653.40.
31 March 2022	Cat (1)	Sunshine Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of a cat that was impounded as a stray. Veterinarians at the Lost Dogs Home assessed the cat to be in great pain and suffering, afflicted with severe lesions caused by squamous cell carcinoma. The cat had severe damage to its face and most of its eye and nose had been eaten away by the cancer. The accused and co-accused collected the cat and were advised that the cat required urgent veterinary treatment. Following up, the RSPCA issued a Notice to Comply. The accused and co-accused failed to comply with this instruction. The cat was again allowed to stray and was impounded by the local council. The RSPCA inspector transported the cat to the RSPCA veterinary clinic, where its condition was assessed as severe. As a result of the pain and suffering and the hopelessness of the condition, the cat was humanely euthanised.	The accused was convicted, fined $4000 and disqualified from owning any animal for ten years. A monitoring order was granted for ten years. The accused was ordered to pay costs of $910.48.

February 2022

Date of case	Type of animal	Court	Case details	Charges and sentence
4 February 2022	Horses/ponies (22)	Shepparton Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner and person in charge of 22 horses/ponies. A RSPCA inspector saw a palomino horse with ‘extremely long feet’, unable to walk and in pain and discomfort, as well as a pregnant paint mare with long and twisted hooves. Most ponies stood in small yards without shelter in the summer heat. The RSPCA issued three Notices to Comply relating to vet/farrier treatment and provision of shelter, and attended the property on multiple occasions.	The accused was convicted as part of an aggregate order, fined $1200 and disqualified from owning or being in charge of more than five horses for a period of two years. The accused was ordered to pay costs of $129.30.
8 February 2022	Dogs (10)	Benalla Magistrates’ Court	The accused had failed to pay costs to the RSPCA from a previous order (February 2018) relating to cruelty to ten dogs. The original order had been extended (October 2021); the accused failed to meet the extension (December 2021) and was prosecuted again by the RSPCA with a single charge under the Sentencing Act 1991 for breaching the order. The accused failed to appear in court.	The accused was fined $400 as part of an aggregate order and ordered to pay costs of $742.20. The orders were referred to Fines Victoria for collection and management.
8 February 2022	Cat (1)	Moorabbin Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of a cat, injured by an unknown person or incident, who failed to provide veterinary treatment for the resulting broken pelvis.	The RSPCA did not pursue a prosecution but seized the cat. The animal may be disposed of by the RSPCA in any manner that the RSPCA sees fit, including rehousing, selling, retaining or transferring the animal.
14 February 2022	Dog (1)	Melbourne Magistrates’ Court	The accused presented a four-year-old German Shepherd for veterinary treatment in January 2017. The dog weighed 44.3 kg and was diagnosed with atopy and secondary infection as a result of scratching, and placed on a course of treatment. In October 2020, a RSPCA inspector attended the premises in response to a report of a German Shepherd limping and with multiple wounds. The dog was emaciated with his hips, ribs and spine bones easily observed. The dog had multiple large necrotic, purulent wounds over his neck, ribs, and hips, was panting heavily and covered in flies. The accused surrendered Bobby to the RSPCA. On examination by a RSPCA veterinarian, the dog was found to have extensive ulcerated lesions across its body, invoking a chronic primary skin condition that was allowed to become infected. Humane euthanasia was required.	The accused was convicted and fined $32,000. The accused was disqualified for five years against dog ownership. The accused was ordered to pay costs of $1542.87. The magistrate noted that had the accused not entered a guilty plea, the accused would have been sentenced to two months imprisonment.
15 February 2022	Horse (1)	Ballarat Magistrates’ Court	The accused aided her husband by catching and holding a stallion while her husband castrated him. No sedative, pain relief or anti-inflammatory medication was provided, and post-surgical complications arose. The horse was not supplied with treatment until the RSPCA were notified four days later. The RSPCA provided veterinary attention.	The accused was convicted without penalty and the matter discharged. The accused was ordered to pay costs of $381.84.
17 February 2022	Dog (1)	Dandenong Magistrates’ Court	The accused and co-accused were the owners of a dog reported to have a tight elastic band halfway up its tail. On RSPCA inspection, the dog’s tail was found to be cold and limp below the band, while above the rubber band the tail was swollen and painful when touched. The dog was seized, examined by a RSPCA veterinarian, and after 48 hours of veterinary treatment, the tail had to be amputated. The dog was surrendered by the owner to the RSPCA.	The accused entered a guilty plea, was placed on a good behaviour bond without conviction for a period of 12 months and was disqualified from dog ownership for five years.. The accused was required to make a donation of $500 to the RSPCA. The co-accused was convicted and fined $1500 and disqualified from dog ownership for ten years. The co-accused was ordered to pay costs of $4,467.97.
23 February 2022	Horses (21)	Ballarat Magistrates’ Court	The accused and co-accused were owners and persons-in-charge of 21 horses. The RSPCA attended and issued three Notices to Comply to improve feeding and provide veterinary attention. The owners failed to comply. Follow-up veterinary assessment by the RSPCA resulted in eleven ponies and horses being surrendered to the RSPCA by the accused. Most of these were in poor body condition and several suffering from illnesses or injury.	The accused and co-accused were each fined $5000 and a community correction order imposed for 18 months, without conviction. The accused and co-accused are also disqualified from owning any animals for a period of five years.

January 2022

Date of case

Type of animal

Court

Case details

Charges and sentence

31 January 2022

Cats (2)
Dog (1)

Werribee Magistrates’ Court

The accused is subject to a Section 12 banning order and is banned from acquiring any more animals for a period of 10 years from September 2018. At the time of the order being instituted the accused was the owner of four birds, three male cats, and two Staffordshire Bull Terriers.

The RSPCA responded to a report in October 2021 of kittens living at the premises. The accused admitted to owning a female cat, a Staffordshire Bull Terrier and a French Bulldog. On inspection, RSPCA inspectors found two cats and a French Bulldog at the premises in breach of the order. The accused advised that she had also acquired a litter of kittens and a litter of puppies (all rehomed) while subject to the banning order.

The accused was convicted and placed on a community corrections order for 12 months with 25 hours unpaid community service to be completed. The accused was ordered to pay costs of $1437.12. The RSPCA was granted ownership of the dog.

December 2021

Date of case	Type of animal	Court	Case details	Charges and sentence
7 December 2021	Dog (1)	Ballarat Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of a dog that required veterinary treatment for an eye condition. Follow-up by RSPCA inspectors revealed insufficient care had been provided and over time, two Notices to Comply were issued. When the owner did not reply to various attempts at contact, the dog was seized by the RSPCA. Humane euthanasia was required.	The accused was convicted, fined $750 and disqualified from owning a dog for five years. The accused was ordered to pay costs of $1889.43.
16 December 2021	Rabbits (3) Rats (5) Cats (10) Kittens (5) Dog (1) Gecko (1) Ferret (1) Native mouse (1)	Dandenong Magistrates’ Court	The accused and co-accused were the owners of a large number of animals kept in unsuitable conditions. On the first inspection by the RSPCA, rabbits were found dead or in emaciated condition. A second RSPCA inspection revealed rats and a rabbit in thin or emaciated condition. On a third inspection, RSPCA inspectors seized cats, kittens, a dog, a gecko, a ferret and a native mouse found in insanitary conditions.	The accused was charged with two serious aggravated cruelty charges. The accused was convicted, placed on a community correction order for seven months and disqualified from owning any animal for five years (other than a dog and cat currently owned). The co-accused was convicted in June 2021.
15 December 2021	Dog (1)	Sunshine Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the co-owner of a puppy that was surrendered to the Lost Dogs Home. On examination, the puppy was suffering from multiple untreated fractures to both hind legs. Humane euthanasia was required. The accused was charged with failing to provide veterinary treatment.	The accused was charged with failing to provide veterinary treatment. Her co-accused was also charged with aggravated cruelty. The accused was convicted, fined $7500, disqualified from owning any animal for ten years and subject to a monitoring order for ten years.

November 2021

Date of case	Type of animal	Court	Case details	Charges and sentence
4 November 2021	Dog (1)	Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of a dog suffering from a severe skin condition. Following investigation by the RSPCA, the dog was surrendered to the RSPCA and humane euthanasia was required.	The accused was placed on a good behaviour bond for a period of 12 months without conviction and disqualified from owning a dog for five years. The accused was ordered to pay costs of $313.50.
22 November 2021	Ponies (47)	Geelong Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of ponies in an emaciated or severely emaciated condition. Despite a Notice to Comply from RSPCA inspectors, one pony died without veterinary treatment. A number of ponies were surrendered to the RSPCA.	The accused was placed on a good behaviour bond for 18 months without conviction and was ordered to reduce the number of ponies held. A monitoring order was granted. The accused was ordered to donate $1500 to the RSPCA.
25 November 2021	Dog (1)	Sunshine Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of a puppy heard crying. The case was reported to the RSPCA. On veterinary examination, the puppy was found to have spinal injuries and was unable to walk. Humane euthanasia was required.	The accused was fined $1500 and disqualified from owning a dog for three years.
26 November 2021	Dogs (2)	Ballarat Magistrates’ Court	The accused had failed to donate $500 to the RSPCA from a previous order (September 2019) relating to cruelty to two dogs.	The accused was able to pay the outstanding fine.

October 2021

Date of case	Type of animal	Court	Case details	Charges and sentence
1 October 2021	Dog (1)	Heidelberg Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of a severely underweight dog with lacerations, maggot infestation, severe dental distress and respiratory distress. The case was referred to the RSPCA.	The accused was fined $1000 without conviction and disqualified from owning a dog for two years.
6 October 2021	Dogs (10)	Mansfield Magistrates’ Court	The accused had failed to pay costs to the RSPCA from a previous order (February 2018) relating to cruelty to ten dogs.	The accused was allowed more time to pay costs of $742.80 and was ordered to comply with existing terms of the order.
7 October 2021	Cats (5) Dogs (5)	Seymour Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of five cats and five dogs kept in unsanitary conditions. Inspection by the RSPCA determined that one animal required veterinary treatment for infection. Over time, the accused failed to sustain improved conditions and all animals were seized.	The accused was convicted, placed on a community corrections order for 12 months and disqualified from owning a dog or cat for five years.
11 October 2021	Dog (1)	Werribee Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of a dog suffering initially from a matted coat, fleas and a skin condition. After inspection and despite multiple Notices to Comply from the RSPCA, the owner failed to provide veterinary treatment. The dog was eventually seized and required surgical removal of an eye and sixteen teeth.	The accused was placed on a good behaviour bond without conviction for 12 months and disqualified from owning a dog for five years. The accused was ordered to pay costs of $5812.
11 October 2021	Dogs (2)	Werribee Magistrates’ Court	The accused and co-accused advertised two puppies for sale. The puppies were not microchipped and neither of the accused was registered as a domestic animal business. After the sale and veterinary examination of one puppy, the RSPCA inspected the property. Both puppies were starving, dehydrated, and had diarrhea and intestinal disease. Humane euthanasia of one puppy was required.	The accused pleaded guilty to 3 consolidated charges, 2 POCTAA charges and a DAA charge. The accused was fined $1000. The co-accused faced 5 consolidated charges, 3 cruelty charges, an aggravated cruelty charge and a DAA charge. The co-accused was fined $25,000 as part of an aggregate order, without conviction. The accused and co-accused were disqualified from overseeing any animal, keeping or selling animals, and conducting or working in a domestic animal business for ten years.
14 October 2021	Dogs (2)	Seymour Magistrates’ Court	The accused abandoned two dogs at a property that lacked food, water and shelter. Examination by the RSPCA determined that the dogs were emaciated and required veterinary care.	The accused was disqualified from being in charge of a dog for two years. Both dogs were seized by the RSPCA.
19 October 2021	Dog (1)	Broadmeadows Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of an underfed dog. On RSPCA inspection, the dog was determined to be emaciated. The dog was surrendered to the RSPCA.	The accused was convicted, fined $1000 and disqualified from owning a dog for five years.
20 October 2021	Cat (1)	Sunshine Magistrates’ Court	The accused and co-accused were the owners of a stray cat with severe damage to its face, eye and nose. Following impoundment and veterinary treatment, the accused were advised that the cat required further critical veterinary treatment but failed to seek such treatment. The RSPCA issued a Notice to Comply that was ignored. The cat was again impounded as a stray and surrendered to the RSPCA. On examination by the RSPCA veterinarian, the cat’s condition was evaluated as severe. Humane euthanasia was required.	The accused was convicted, placed on a community corrections order for 18 months including 200 hours of community service and disqualified from owning an animal for ten years (other than two cats currently owned). A monitoring order was granted for ten years.
25 October 2021	Dogs (2)	Echuca Magistrates’ Court	The accused had failed to pay costs to the RSPCA from a previous order relating to cruelty to two dogs.	The original order was confirmed, with conviction. The accused is to pay $500 to the court fund.

September 2021

Date of case	Type of animal	Court	Case details	Charges and sentence
9 September 2021	Dog (1)	Heidelberg Magistrates’ Court	The RSPCA responded to a report of a dog discovered on abandoned premises. The dog was seized immediately. After examination at the RSPCA, it was determined that the dog was anemic, dehydrated and emaciated. The accused was the owner of the dog.	The accused was convicted, placed on a community corrections order for 15 months and disqualified from owning a dog for five years. The accused was ordered to pay costs of $1849.55.
17 September 2021	Dog (1)	Bendigo Magistrates’ Court	After being evicted from a property, the accused abandoned a dog that she owned and left it without access to water. The council surrendered the dog to the RSPCA. Veterinary examination at the RSPCA determined that the dog was emaciated, infested with fleas and had severe dental disease.	The accused was convicted, fined $500 and ordered to pay costs of $976.23. A media application was also granted.
17 September 2021	Dogs (3)	Bacchus Marsh Magistrates’ Court	The accused and co-accused abandoned three dogs in a house and moved interstate. Following council intervention and veterinary examination, the dogs were determined to be in poor condition, starving and dehydrated.	The accused and co-accused were fined $600 without conviction and disqualified from owning a dog for five years.

August 2021

Date of case	Type of animal	Court	Case details	Charges and sentence
25 August 2021	Dog (1)	Heidelberg Magistrates’ Court	The accused was the owner of a dog with an untreated cancerous condition that resulted in maggot infestation. RSPCA inspectors found the dog anorexic, recumbent and fly-blown, and in shock.	The accused was convicted, placed on a good behaviour bond for a period of two years and disqualified from owning a dog for five years. The accused was ordered to donate $1500 to the RSPCA and to pay costs of $1159.78.

July 2021

6-Jul-21

Latrobe Valley (online)

The case involved a dog who had suffered injuries to her throat, neck and front legs. The accused wiped the dog with a wet cloth, then asked her friends to take the dog to kennels at Traralgon. On arrival, one of her friends stitched the dog’s wounds with a needle and nylon thread. No pain relief or veterinary treatment was given. The following day the accused stated she checked on the dog and found her to be eating, walking and toileting normally. Later that night, a third party was at the kennels and observed the dog to be recumbent and motionless, and rushed her to the veterinarian. The vet found the dog was suffering from septicaemia due to infected wounds. The accused attended and was told the dog was in critical condition, and her prognosis was very poor. The accused opted for euthanasia.

The accused was fined $500 without conviction and costs of $85.70 were ordered.

8-Jul-21

Ringwood (online)

The case involved a male Golden Retriever known as ‘Cookie’ who had lost use of all four limbs and was unable to walk. The accused contacted South Eastern Animal Hospital and made an appointment for the dog to see the vet and described the condition of the dog to veterinary staff who advised the accused that the animal required vet treatment that day. The accused stated he was too busy to attend on the same day.

Cookie was heard by a witness barking in a low tone in the backyard of the premises throughout the night. The accused cancelled the veterinary appointment due to taking overtime at work.

The dog was detected by a witness recumbent in the backyard letting out low monotone barks which indicated to the witness the dog was distressed.

Again, Cookie was witnessed in the same position recumbent in the backyard, indicating he had not moved for three days. The matter was then reported to RSPCA.

Cookie was found to be paralysed and was suffering a lot of pain and discomfort. The prognosis was very poor of making a recovery or experiencing anything but a poor quality of life, and the dog was humanely euthanised.

The accused was fined $500.00 without conviction and a s12 disqualification order was made against any animal ownership for five years, save for his current dog.

27-Jul-21

Benalla (online)

The accused was the owner and person in charge of multiple animals housed at the premises, including nine dogs, a pig and two ferrets. The RSPCA received a report of dogs which were tethered outside at the premises without access to water. The Bureau of Meteorology temperature for that date and location was a high of 39 degrees Celsius. A search of the RSPCA database revealed that RSPCA Inspectors had visited the property on four separate occasions in 2018, when a copy of the Code of Practice for the Tethering of Dogs had been provided to the accused and his partner.

The RSPCA Inspector observed the animals housed in filthy conditions. All nine dogs were tethered, four of the dogs had no access to water and five had inadequate water. The pig similarly had no access to water. The Inspector was unable to find a water outlet on the premises and went to the neighbours to fill a bucket of water. She provided water to the dogs and the pig, who all drank readily and continually for several minutes.

The accused was fined $500.00 without conviction and a s12 disqualification order was handed down against ownership of dogs except for the six dogs that he currently owns.

June 2021

4-Jun-21	Shepparton (online)	The case involveda tan and white American Staffordshire type dog ‘Buddy’, a Jack Russell type dog ‘Boo Boo’ and four medium-haired cats. The Staffy was kept in the rear yard with no shelter and a heavy build-up of faeces. The remaining animals were locked in the garage. The conditions inside the garage were squalid with a heavy build-up of faeces and urine covering the entire floor. Boo Boo appeared to have a severe skin condition that had inflamed the skin. All six animals were seized and transported to RSPCA.	The Magistrate placed the accused on a Good Behaviour Bond for 12 months without conviction, and awarded costs in the sum of $700.00. The ownership of animals was also granted to RSPCA.
15-Jun-21	Werribee (online)	This case involved an underweight Old English Sheepdog who was taken to a veterinary clinic in Werribee. On examination it was noted that the coat was severely matted, and that thousands of grass seeds were embedded throughout the coat. Around the paws, the seeds had penetrated the skin and embedded in the flesh, causing swelling and lesions. Maggots were also present in the lesions, feeding off the flesh. The dog was surrendered and transferred to RSPCA’s vet clinic where grass seeds were removed from the coat, ears, ear canals, leg, paws and the prepuce of his penis. The dog was placed on an adequate nutritious diet suitable for his needs and given anti-inflammatory and antibiotic medications to assist with the healing process. Further grass seeds worked their way out of his body over the next few weeks, and the lesions in the paws fully healed with continued treatment after several months. Within five weeks the dog had gained an ideal weight and body condition, and over several months the lesions in his paws healed.	The accused and co-accused were placed on a diversion plan. The conditions were that both be of good behaviour for 12 months, that neither be the owner of a dog for a period of five years and that a donation of $2,500 be made to the RSPCA.
16-Jun-21	Latrobe Valley (online)	The accused and co-accused were the owners and persons in charge of two Bloodhound type dogs. The dogs were not provided with a sufficient quantity of food, and subsequently both dogs lost a significant amount of weight. Both dogs were graded a body condition score of 1 out of 5 (being emaciated). One dog also had an internal parasite infestation as well as a mild ear infection.	The Magistrate fined both accused $800.00 without conviction and awarded costs in the sum of $385.81 per person. The Magistrate also granted the s12 disqualification order for five years against ownership of all animals except for the two cats and one dog that they currently own.
17-Jun-21	Werribee (online)	The case involved a two–three month-old Boxer type puppy named Jaspar and a 9-month-old American Staffordshire Bull Terrier puppy named Diesel. The accused would strike Diesel as a form of training and discipline, and had hit and kicked the puppy after it had engaged in rough play with the Boxer puppy. He also threw half-bricks at the American Staffordshire puppy as he ran away, with one of the half-bricks missing the Staffy and striking Jaspar.	The Magistrate placed the accused on a good behaviour bond without conviction for 12 months. Costs in the sum of $4,412.40 were awarded and a s12 disqualification order against all animal ownership for two years was granted.
18-Jun-21	Seymour (online)	The case involved a blue male Staffordshire Bull Terrier type dog ‘Boofa’. Boofa was suffering from a chronic skin condition and had extensive hair loss over most of its body. A closer inspection revealed the dog’s skin to be flaky with a waxy appearance. Boofa was surrendered and transported to an RSPCA Veterinary Clinic. A veterinarian conducted a full clinical examination and found the dog to be suffering from a bilateral ear infection and a skin infection. He was appropriately treated and within two weeks his condition had resolved and the hair had begun to regrow.	The accused was placed on a good behaviour bond without conviction for 12 months and costs in the sum of $313.50 were awarded.
29-Jun-21	Dandenong (online)	The case involved 16 domestic cats, four rabbits, five rats, one ferret, one native gecko, one native hopping mouse and one Staffordshire Bull Terrier type dog. The conditions inside the premises contained a build-up of animal faeces and urine over the flooring surfaces, including carpeted areas. A black Miniature Lop rabbit was deceased in emaciated body condition and a white Miniature Lop rabbit was recumbent in emaciated body condition and was later humanely euthanised. Necropsy identified the rabbits emaciated condition was due to malnutrition. Five rats in the same enclosure were sneezing and in poor body condition and in a separate enclosure was a rabbit in very poor condition. These animals had no access to food and either no access to water or access only to contaminated water. The bedding of the enclosures were soiled, with no evidence of recent cleaning. The rats were found to be in thin body condition and to be suffering from an upper respiratory tract infection that required treatment. The rabbit was in emaciated body condition and was suffering from starvation. A ferret was also found in the kitchen, housed in an enclosure with no food and minimal amount of water.	The accused was placed on a Community Corrections Order with conviction for 12 months with 60 hours of unpaid community work. Costs in the sum of $729.50 were awarded and a s12 disqualification order was made against all animal ownership for a period of five years, save for her current dog and cat.

May 2021

3-May-21	Geelong (online)	The accused was the owner of a bay Thoroughbred mare ‘Harmony’ in poor condition.A Notice to Comply was issued ordering he seek veterinary attention, with the veterinarian diagnosing teeth problems and a lack of nutrition. She recommended euthanasia or surrender within 24 hours.Harmony was surrendered to a horse welfare group and a full recovery was made.	The accused was fined $1,000 as part of aggregate order with costs ordered of $305.10.He was disqualified for a period of two years from being the person in charge of more than one horse.
	Frankston (online)	The accused lived/worked at a greyhound training track and trapped an adult Brushtail Possum in a home-made wire possum trap.The accused kept the possum in the trap, wired the trap door shut (to prevent the possum from escaping), fed the possum apples and kept the trap under a wooden box in the backyard of the premises. RSPCA attended the track after the Brushtail Possum was discovered by Greyhound Racing Victoria Officers conducting a routine inspection of the premises. The accused admitted to the Inspector that he had trapped the possum and kept it. The accused denied the trap was his and denied he intended to use the possum as a lure.	The magistrate released the accused on an undertaking to appear before adjourned date if called upon, to be of good behaviour and to pay $2,000 to the court fund, without conviction.
10-May-21		The accused was the owner of a dog who was emaciated and sick. A Notice to Comply was issued and the accused attended at a veterinary clinic and was told the dog needed ongoing treatment. He did not comply with the instructions so the dog was seized and much later surrendered but had to be euthanised.	The court found all charges proven, ordered a $1,500 fine with no conviction, $8,000 in costs and disqualified the accused from being an owner or person in charge of dogs for two years.
18-May-21	Benalla (online)	The accused was the owner and person in charge of a Thoroughbred mare ‘Hazel’ who was found in very poor body condition, with the ribs, spine, croup and pelvis bones prominent and visible. A local veterinarian attended and stated the mare’s weight was approximately 150-200kg less than a healthy horse her age. In addition, Hazel was suffering from chronic malnutrition and poor teeth and had not had any appropriate care, diet or adequate nutrition provided. The vet believed that the emaciation was of a chronic nature and it was found that euthanasia was the kindest course of action.	The accused was placed on a Good Behaviour Bond for 12 months without conviction, with costs in the sum of $752.25 awarded. He was ordered to donate $1,000.00 to the RSPCA and he was placed on a s12 disqualification order in relation to horses for two years.
20-May-21	Frankston (online)	The accused was the owner and person in charge of an 11-year-old Staffordshire bull terrier type female dog ‘Shelby’. The dog was in a very thin body condition and was suffering from red and inflamed skin and noticeable hair loss. The accused advised that she had tried to feed the dog but had not sought veterinary attention. The dog was surrendered and upon veterinary examination was found to be emaciated. Shelby was placed on a suitably adequate diet and treated for the flea infestation and skin condition. Within two weeks, the skin had drastically improved, and the hair was regrowing. After two months, Shelby had increased her body weight by 50% and she was now in an ideal body condition. The vet’s view was that the dog was not provided with proper and sufficient food for a period of several weeks to months.	The Magistrate placed the accused on a Good Behaviour Bond for six months without conviction, with costs awarded in the sum of $313.50. She was ordered to donate $300.00 to the RSPCA and was placed on a s12 disqualification order in relation to dogs for two years.
20-May-21	Frankston (online)	The accused was the owner and person in charge of a 14-year-old American Staffordshire terrier cross type dog ‘Makko’. The dog was seized by council as a stray, and on admission to the pound was found to be emaciated and suffering from a large open necrotic mass in the groin area, as well as other infected lumps on his body. The accused stated that the dog had been losing weight for the past two months and that she was aware of the lumps and the necrotic mass. She stated she believed the dog had cancer, but she could not afford to have the dog euthanised. Makko was surrendered to the RSPCA where he was euthanised on humane grounds.	The Magistrate placed the accused on a Good Behaviour Bond for six months without conviction and awarded costs in the sum of $313.50. A $300 donation to the RSPCA was also ordered.
27-May-21	Seymour (online)	The accused was the owner and person in charge of a dog, two cats and one rabbit abandoned at a property. When an Inspector attended the dog had been removed but two cats and one rabbit were found to be in a filthy state and were seized.	The accused was convicted and fined $1,000 with costs of $3,124.80 awarded to the RSPCA. She was disqualified for a period of five years from being the person in charge of any animals, save a dog she currently owned.
27 May 2022	Seymour (online)	The accused was the owner and person in charge of a horse who had a large purulent haemorrhagic mass completely obscuring the left eye. A Notice to Comply was left for the owner who responded two days later. The owner stated the eye mass was present for four years. The horse was euthanised by the owner on the vet’s recommendation.	The accused was fined $1,000, ordered to pay costs of $1,747.00 and disqualified for a period one year from owning or being in charge of horses.
28 May 2021	Kerang (online)	The accused was the owner and person in charge of a Shetland pony mare with severely overgrown hooves. Notices to Comply were issued for vet and farrier care but were not complied with. The pony was seized and subsequently surrendered. He was conveyed to the nearest vet where radiographs confirmed he was severely disabled. He was later euthanised on humane grounds.	The finding was without conviction, the accused to undertake to be of Good behaviour until March 2023 and to pay $630 costs and donate $2,000 to the RSPCA.

April 2021

Date Of Case	Species Involved	Court	Case Details	Sentence
15 Apr 2020	Dogs (2)	Ballarat (online)	The case involved two fawn pitbull terriers, Missy and Justice, who were found to be in emaciated body condition. One was in body condition score of 1 / 5, being emaciated, and the second dog was in body condition score 1.5 / 5, being thin to emaciated. Both dogs were also suffering with heavy flea burdens and associated sores and hair loss. The accused elected to surrender both dogs to the RSPCA due to financial constraints. A veterinarian assessed that both dogs were in poor body condition with live fleas present, and that they would have been in this condition for at least several weeks. Further, one dog had skin disease and the other was suffering from an ear infection. Missy has since been humanely euthanised and Justice was adopted.	The accused was convicted. He was fined $500.00 ($250.00 per dog) and a disqualification order under section 12 in respect to dogs was granted for a period of 5 years.
22 Apr 2021	Dog (1)	Frankston (online)	The case involved a female, white coloured, 11-year-old, Miniature Poodle known as ‘Roxy’. The accused failed to provide veterinary treatment to Roxy who suffered from dental disease and infection of the mouth, of such severity it caused the lower jaw to rot away and was significantly shorter than the upper jaw.Roxy was suffering a severe mass on the inner oral aspect of the lower jaw preventing closure of the mouth and occupying a large majority of the oral cavity.She was in emaciated body condition, weighing just 3.75kg, with a matted foul odorous stained coat and skin and with severely overgrown nails, including the right foreleg dewclaw which was growing back into the nailbed. Roxy’s matted coat was twisting and pulling her skin causing pain; and was also suffering an ear infection with severe brown discharge within the external ear canal. Due to the severity of Roxy’s condition which was irreversible, and the severity of pain Roxy was suffering, she was humanely euthanised.	The accused was fined $1500.00 and a disqualification order under section 12 in respect to dogs was granted for a period of 5 years. We were awarded costs in the sum of $873.40.
26 Apr 2021	Dog (1)	Horsham (online)	The case involved a female Bull Arab type dog named ‘Bindi’ who was found tethered to a kennel by Inspectors. The accused was subject to a s12 Disqualification order that was still in place.The accused was found to be in contravention of the s12 Disqualification order due to her possession of Bindi. Bindi has since been returned to her original owner.	The Magistrate placed the accused on a Good Behaviour Bond for a period of 6 months without conviction and requested that she pay a $200.00 donation to the RSPCA.
26 Apr 2021	Dog (1)	Geelong (online)	The accused was the owner of a Maltese type dog named ‘Missy’ in September 2019. The dog was handed into the pound as a stray, where it was assessed that it needed veterinary treatment for numerous medical issues. The accused was given a Notice to Comply by the RSPCA, instructing her toseek veterinary treatment. She failed to do this andInspectors later attended at her premises, acting upon a warrant and the dog was found concealed in a cupboard in the accused’s bedroom. The dog had a matted dirty coat, swollen abdomen and had a pungent odour. The dog was seized and examined by a RSPCA vet, she stated that both the dog’s ear canals were suffering from infections, with the left ear being one of the worst she had ever seen. This infection had been present for several weeks by the time she was examined, and the degree of dental disease present was an indication that the dog had not received any dental treatment. Several rotten teeth were extracted. The accused did not claim the dog and she was rehomed.	The accused was convicted on all three charges, fined $1500 as part of aggregate order, and ordered to pay costs in the amount of $2104.07 and pursuant to S12 the accused is disqualified for a period of two years from being the person in charge of any dog.
26 Apr 2021	Dogs (3)		The accused was the co-owner and person in charge of three dogs.The RSPCA attended the premises and the dogs were observed to be in very poor body condition.Instructions were given to provide veterinary treatment. Information later obtained confirmed that the accused was disqualified from being a person in charge of dogs.She admitted she knew that she was not allowed to own dogs. The three dogs were seized from the property and taken to Burwood East RSPCA shelter.The accused surrendered all three dogs to the RSPCA.	She was convicted and fined $1500.She has prior history of failing to provide sufficient food to a dog and had received a 10 year disqualification which led to the recent seizure and resulting court case.

November 2020

Date Of Case	Species Involved	Court	Case Details	Sentence
12 Nov 2020	Horses (5)	Geelong (online)	The accused was the owner and person in charge of five horses, all of which were significantly overweight and required urgent farrier treatment. Four mares were found to be lame and laminitic, and the remaining gelding had mild lameness. One horse died 13 days after the date of seizure, and a further two failed to respond to treatment and were euthanised on humane grounds.	The accused was placed on an adjourned undertaking to be of good behaviour for a period of five years and was disqualified from being the person in charge of any animal save for an existing horse for a period of one year. A monitoring order was also issued, allowing POCTA Inspectors to attend premises where his horses are kept to monitor his compliance with the disqualification order.
23 Nov 2020	Dog (1)	Werribee (online)	This case involved an 8-year-old Pomeranian type dog named Layla, which was found by an RSPCA Victoria Inspector in the backyard of the accused’s home. The dog was in a state of recumbency and emaciation, with urine-soaked skin and fur. Due to her recumbency the dog was unable to access shelter or water, and as a result was also severely dehydrated when found. The dog was seized and despite our best efforts to treat her multiple issues, her condition deteriorated and after seven days in our care she was euthanised on humane grounds due to poor prognosis and quality of life.	The accused was convicted, fined $5,000 and ordered to pay costs of $2,358.

October 2020

Date Of Case	Species Involved	Court	Case Details	Charges	Sentence
12 Oct 2020	Dog (1)		The accused and co-accused failed to provide veterinary care to an emaciated, recumbent dog, with the dog later dying as a result.	9(1)i	The accused was ordered to pay costs of $722.14 and without conviction was placed on an adjourned undertaking to be of good behaviour for 12 months. The accused was also banned from owning or being the person in charge of any animal for four years.
12 Oct 2020	Dog (1)		The accused and co-accused failed to provide veterinary care to an emaciated, recumbent dog, with the dog later dying as a result.	9(1)i	The accused was ordered to pay costs of $722.14 and without conviction was placed on an adjourned undertaking to be of good behaviour for 12 months. The accused was also banned from owning or being the person in charge of any animal for four years.
16 Oct 2020	Dog (1)	Ballarat	The accused was the owner and person in charge of a dog who was found in a sick, emaciated condition. The dog was surrendered.	9(1)f 9(1)i	The accused was convicted and fined $500, ordered to pay costs of $1,382.40 and was also disqualified from being a person in charge of a dog for a period of five years.

*This case is currently being appealed by the accused

September 2020

Date Of Case	Species Involved	Court	Case Details	Charges	Sentence
29 Sep 2020	Dog (1)	Bendigo	The accused was the owner and person in charge of a dog who was left alone in a car for four days where temperatures ranged from 38 to 42 degrees Celsius. The animal was found deceased on arrival.	9(1)a 9(1)b 10(1)	The accused pleaded guilty and was convicted and sentenced to a 12-month community corrections order with 80 hours unpaid work. They were further ordered to undertake various treatment programs and given a 10-year ban from owning or being the person in charge of any dog, the maximum length of ban for a first offence.

March 2020

Date Of Case	Location	Species Involved	Court	Case Details	Charges	Sentence
4 Mar 2020		Dog (1)	Dandenong	The accused was the person in charge of a dog in breach of an Order pursuant to section 12(1) of POCTAA. Application pursuant to section 24X.		The application was granted and ownership was given to RSPCA Victoria *
12 Mar 2020	Berwick	Dog (1)	Dandenong	The accused was the person in charge of an elderly dog who was emaciated with a heavily matted coat. Dog surrendered on day of visit.	9(1)c	The accused pleaded guilty and was convicted and fined $1,000. Further ordered to pay costs of $850 and a two-year banning order in respect of dogs was imposed.
16 Mar 2020	Geelong	Cats	Geelong	The accused and co-accused were conducting an unregistered rearing domestic animal. business, failed to comply with the Code of Practice in four respects, failed to comply with the lawful direction of an authorised officer on three occasions, and committed cruelty offences to 10 cats by improperly confining them in cat carriers.	45 DAA 63A DAA 76(1)(a) DAA 9(1)b POCTAA	The accused pleaded guilty and without conviction, was placed on an adjourned undertaking to be of good behaviour for a period of 18 months. The accused was also prohibited from conducting or working in a domestic animal business for 18 months. A fine of $750 was imposed with additional costs of $84.
16 Mar 2020	Geelong	Cats	Geelong	The accused and co-accused were conducting an unregistered rearing domestic animal. business, failed to comply with the Code of Practice in four respects, failed to comply with the lawful direction of an authorised officer on three occasions, and committed cruelty offences to 10 cats by improperly confining them in cat carriers.	45 DAA 63A DAA 76(1)(a) DAA 9(1)b POCTAA	The accused pleaded guilty and without conviction, was placed on an adjourned undertaking to be of good behaviour for a period of 18 months. The accused was also prohibited from conducting or working in a domestic animal business for 18 months. A fine of $500 was imposed with additional costs of $84.
19 Mar 2020		Dog (1)	Ringwood	The accused and co-accused were owners. and persons in charge of an emaciated dog with FAD. Dog was surrendered to RSPCA where it was found malnutrition to be the cause of the dog’s poor health. The dog increased 53% body weight in 10.5 weeks.	9(1)c 9(1)f	With conviction, the accused was fined $500. The accused is also disqualified from being the person in charge of any animal for a period of three years, save for one dog and one cat.
19 Mar 2020		Dog (1)	Ringwood	The accused and co-accused were owners. and persons in charge of an emaciated dog with FAD. Dog was surrendered to RSPCA where it was found malnutrition to be the cause of the dog’s poor health. The dog increased 53% body weight in 10.5 weeks.	10(1)	With conviction, the accused was fined $500. The accused is also disqualified from being the person in charge of any animal for a period of three years, save for one dog and one cat.

*This case is currently being appealed by the accused

February 2020

Date Of Case	Location	Species Involved	Court	Case Details	Charges	Sentence
13 Feb 2020	Belgrave Heights	Rabbits (59), guinea pigs (69)	Ringwood	The accused was the owner and person in charge of 59 rabbits and 69 guinea pigs. Despite several visits to help manage numbers, the accused was not willing to reduce numbers further.	9(1)b 9(1)b	The accused was placed on an adjourned undertaking to be of good behaviour for a period of 12 months. The accused was further disqualified from being the person in charge of any more than 10 guinea pigs and eight. rabbits for a period of five. years..
20 Feb 2020		Cats (38)	Broadmeadows	The accused was the owner and person in charge of 38 cats which were housed in cramped and unsanitary conditions and exhibiting signs of cat flu. All cats seized.	N/A	The accused attended court and, after lengthy discussions, they opted to surrender all cats to RSPCA Victoria. The application was thus withdrawn.
21 Feb 2020	Mount Clear	Dog (1)	Ballarat	The accused was the owner and person in charge of a dog who was contained in a back yard with no food, water or shelter, and with a heavy flea burden.	9(1)c	The accused was convicted and ordered to pay a fine of $1,500 and costs of $1,319. The accused was also disqualified from being the person in charge of any domestic pet or animal for a period of five years.
24 Feb 2020		Dogs (2)	Broadmeadows	The accused was the owner and person in charge of two huskies. No shelter was provided despite advice, verbal instruction and a subsequent NTC.	9(1)f 24ZP(2)	The accused was convicted and fined $2,000 with a further $6,685 in costs. They were also disqualified from being the person in charge of any dog for a period of five years.
*This case is currently being appealed by the accused

December 2019

Date Of Case	Location	Species Involved	Court	Case Details	Charges	Sentence
12 Dec 2019	Mount Cottrell	Dog (1)	Werribee	The accused was the owner and person in charge of a dog who was chained in a yard with a broken leg for over a week with no vet attention sought. The dog was surrendered.	9(1)i	The accused was released on an ordered undertaking to be of good behaviour until December 2020. The court further ordered a donation of $400 to the court fund
17 Dec 2019	Merrigum	Dogs (3), birds, cats, chicken	Shepparton	The accused was the owner of a number of animals, including birds and cats that were housed in appalling conditions, three dogs that required vet treatment for ear and dental issues, and a chicken with a broken leg who had not received vet treatment.	9(1)i 9(1)i 9(1)i 9(1)i 9(1)b 9(1)b 9(1)b 9(1)b 9(1)b 9(1)b	The accused was placed on a two-year good behaviour bond, with costs of $217.25 awarded. The accused was disqualified from being the person in charge of more than 28 animals for a period of five years.
*This case is currently being appealed by the accused

Date Of Case	Location	Species Involved	Court	Case Details	Charges	Sentence
5 Sep 2019	Mount Clear	Dogs (2)	Ballarat	The accused was the owner and person in charge of two dogs. Both dogs were underweight, had fleas, and one dog had a severely matted, urine-stained coat. Both animals surrendered.	9(1)f 9(1)i	The accused was placed on an adjourned undertaking to be of good behaviour for 12 months, and ordered to donate $500 to RSPCA Victoria. Also disqualified from being a person in charge of any animal for five years, save for one cat.
5 Sep 2019		Horses (3)	Ballarat	The accused was the owner and person in charge of three horses. The horses were in poor boy condition with inadequate food and various injuries. The horses were eventually surrendered.	9(1)f 9(1)i	The accused was placed on an adjourned undertaking to be of good behaviour for 12 months and ordered to donate $1,250 to RSPCA Victoria. Also disqualified from being the person in charge of more than one horse for a period of a year.
11 Sep 2019		Dog (1)	Heidelberg	The accused, together with the co-accused, was the owner and person in charge of a dog that was riddled with maggots as the result of a failure to maintain the dog’s coat. Humane euthanasia of the animal was required.	9(1)i	The accused was fined $1,500 without conviction. Also disqualified from being the person in charge of a dog, with the exception of one already-owned dog.
11 Sep 2019		Dog (1)	Heidelberg	The accused, together with the co-accused, was the owner and person in charge of a dog that was riddled with maggots as the result of a failure to maintain the dog’s coat. Humane euthanasia of the animal was required.	9(1)i	The accused was fined $1,500 without conviction. Also disqualified from being the person in charge of a dog, with the exception of one already-owned dog.
17 Sep 2019	Melbourne	Dog (1)	Melbourne	The accused was the owner of a dog who was hit twice with a shoe, resulting in two significant fractures. The accused admitted to hitting the dog, who had to be euthanised as a result of its injuries.	9(1)a	The accused was placed on an adjourned undertaking to be of good behaviour for a period of 12 months and ordered to make a $400 donation to RSPCA Victoria.
18 Sep 2019		Dog (1)	Werribee	The accused was the owner of an elderly dog who he beat with a stick, causing two leg fractures which were left untreated.	9(1)c	The accused was fined $2,000 and ordered to pay costs of $1,649.
19 Sep 2019		Horses (2)	Dandenong	The accused was the owner of two horses in emaciated body condition. One horse died during Inspectors’ attendance and the other was seized and later surrendered.	9(1)f 9(1)i 9(1)f 9(1)l	The accused was fined $3,000 with conviction and disqualified for a period of three years from being the person in charge of any horse.
19 Sep 2019		Horses (5)	Bairnsdale	The accused was the owner of five horses on an agistment property. The accused was not attending to feed the horses and there was no natural pasture. The accused failed to improve condition and failed to comply with a NTC.	9(1)f	The accused was placed on an undertaking to be of good behaviour and was ordered to pay a sum of $1,000 to RSPCA Victoria as well as $500 in costs. Also disqualified from being the person in charge of any more than five horses for a period of five years.

*This case is currently being appealed by the accused

August 2019

Date Of Case	Location	Species Involved	Court	Case Details	Charges	Sentence
8 Aug 2019	Lakes Entrance	Dog (1)	Bairnsdale	The accused was the owner and person in charge of a dog who was found deceased on the accused’s property. A post-mortem revealed the cause of death was prolonged starvation.	9(1)f 9(1)i	The accused was sentenced without conviction to pay a fine of $500 and to pay costs of $511.
15 Aug 2019		Dogs (2)	Frankston	The accused was the owner of a two dogs. Instructions and a NTC were given to groom one of the dogs. The accused then went overseas and failed to make arrangements for the care of the dogs.	9(1)c 9(1)f	The accused was fined $300 with conviction and was ordered to pay costs of $581.66. The accused was also disqualified from being a person in charge of any dog for a period of five years.
29 Aug 2019		Cat (1)	Sunshine	The accused was the owner and person in charge of a cat who had flu symptoms, dental disease and inflamed swollen paws. The cat was seized and claim was made.	9(1)i	The accused was ordered to pay a donation of $100 to RSPCA Victoria, and was also disqualified from being a person in charge of any animal for a two-year period, save for two cats and one dog.
29 Aug 2019		Cats (13)	Sunshine	The accused was the owner and person in charge of 13 cats with various ailments. Two cats were seized by RSPCA Victoria, with the remaining 11 seized by council.	9(1)i 9(1)i	The accused was ordered to pay a donation of $100 to RSPCA Victoria, and was disqualified from being the person in charge of any animal for two years, save for two cats and one dog.
*This case is currently being appealed by the accused

July 2019

Date Of Case	Location	Species Involved	Court	Case Details	Charges	Sentence
1 Jul 2019	Arcadia	Horses (10)	Shepparton	The accused was the person in charge of 10 horses. The accused was failing to feed the horses,and a further five had untreated injuries.	9(1)f 9(1)i	The accused was placed on an adjourned undertaking to be of good behaviour for a period of 12 months and ordered to pay $500 to the court fund.
4 Jul 2019		Dog (1)	Heidelberg	The accused was the owner of a dog found with a severely matted coat, dermatitis and tooth decay. The dog was surrendered.	9(1)c	The accused was fined $2,000 without conviction and was disqualified from being a person in charge of a dog for a period of two years.
4 Jul 2019		Dog (1)	Heidelberg	The accused was the person in charge of a dog who was found in a sick, emaciated condition. The dog was surrendered.	9(1)i	The accused was convicted and fined $5,000, ordered to pay costs of $313.50 and was also disqualified from being a person in charge of a dog for a period of three years.
15 Jul 2019		Dog (1)	Bendigo	The accused was the owner and person in charge of a dog who he beat with a hose.	9(1)ia	The accused was ordered to pay $286.98 in costs and placed on an adjourned undertaking to be of good behaviour and to complete a behaviour change program.
*This case is currently being appealed by the accused

June 2019

Date Of Case	Location	Species Involved	Court	Case Details	Charges	Sentence
4 June 2019	Eden Park	Dogs (3), cats (3)	Heidelberg	The accused was the owner and person in charge of three dogs and three cats. One dog was severely matted, one dog sustained an injury that was left untreated, and all six animals were housed in appalling conditions.	9(1)i 9(1)b	The accused was fined $4,000 and ordered to pay costs of $2,149.50.
*This case is currently being appealed by the accused

May 2019

Date Of Case	Location	Species Involved	Court	Case Details	Charges	Sentence
9 May 2019	Buningyong & Grenville	Dogs	Ballarat	Two cases were consolidated for the purpose of a plea. The accused conducted two unregistered DABs which did not comply with the Code of Practice. Seven animals seized.	63A 45 76(1)(a) 45 12(2)(a) 63A	The accused was convicted and fined an aggregate total of $5,000. A prohibition order was imposed for a period of two years, preventing the accused from conducting or working in a DAB.*
*This case is currently being appealed by the accused

April 2019

Date Of Case	Location	Species Involved	Court	Case Details	Charges	Sentence
4 Apr 2019	Ashwood	Dog (1)	Ringwood	The accused was the owner of a dog who was suffering from cherry eye and poor body condition. The dog was seized and no claim made.	9(1)f 9(1)i 9(1)c	The accused was convicted and fined $1,500. They were also ordered to pay costs of $313 and disqualified from being the person in charge of a dog for two years.
10 Apr 2019	Point Cook	Dogs (3)	Werribee	The accused, together with the co-accused, were the owners of two dogs, both of which were in poor condition. Despite verbal advice and NTCs, the condition of the animals did not improve. Both dogs were seized and a s24X application was lodged. A further dog was later removed and a subsequent s24X application was lodged.	9(1)f 9(1)f	The accused was convicted and fined $500, while also ordered to pay costs of $3,764. They were disqualified from being a person in charge of any animal for a period of five years, and the three dogs were awarded to RSPCA Victoria.
10 Apr 2019	Point Cook	Dog (3)	Werribee	The accused, together with the co-accused, were the owners of two dogs, both of which were in poor condition. Despite verbal advice and NTCs, the condition of the animals did not improve. Both dogs were seized and a s24X application was lodged. A further dog was later removed and a subsequent s24X application was lodged.	9(1)f 9(1)f	The accused was convicted and fined $500, and was also disqualified from being a person in charge of any animal for a period of five years. The three dogs were awarded to RSPCA Victoria.
11 Apr 2019	Broadmeadows	Dog(1)	Broadmeadows	The accused was the owner of a dog who wassuffering from severe skin infections with no treatment provided. The dog was seized and found to be dehydrated. No claim made.	9(1)i 9(1)f	The accused was convicted, fined $2,500 and ordered to pay costs of $1,669.
16 Apr 2019	Shepparton	Dog (1)	Shepparton	The accused was the owner and person in charge of a dog who was underweight and had an untreated leg fracture. The dog was picked up as a stray and later surrendered.	9(1)c 9(1)i	The accused was convicted, fined $191.50 and disqualified from being the person in charge of any pet animal for a period of two years.
30 Apr 2019	Chadstone	Dog (1), rats (2), tropical fish (66)	Melbourne	APPEAL The accused was convicted at the Moorabbin Magistrates’ Court on 12 February 2019, of keeping a dog, two rats, and 66 fish in contravention of a Disqualification Order that had been previously imposed. Sentenced to 2-year good behaviour bond, ordered to pay $500 to Court Fund and further disqualified for a period of five years.		The order of the Magistrates’ Court was set aside. The accused was ordered to pay $200, ordered to be of good behaviour for a period of two years, and further disqualified for a period of five years.

*This case is currently being appealed by the accused

March 2019

Date Of Case	Location	Species Involved	Court	Case Details	Charges	Sentence
13 Mar 2019		Dog (1)	Heidelberg	The accused sold a puppy online without a microchip which was unfit for sale due to being highly deformed in both hind legs.	12A(1) DAA 9(1)g	The accused was convicted and fined $1,500. Also ordered to pay costs of $313.50 and disqualified for five years from being the person in charge of any animal.
13 Mar 2019	Reservoir	Cat (1)	Heidelberg	The accused was the owner of a cat, and was witnessed to hit the animal on a number of occasions. An admission was made and the cat was surrendered	9(1)a	The accused was convicted and fined $1,000, and ordered to complete a cat education course before they could be in charge of any animal.
14 Mar 2019	Mickleham	Horses (3)	Broadmeadows	The accused was the owner of three horses, all of which were emaciated, two with injuries and one recumbent. Two horses had to be euthanised, and after the accused failed to treat the third horse despite a Notice to Comply, the horse was seized with no claim made.	9(1)f 9(1)f	The accused was convicted, fined $2,500 and ordered to pay costs of $433.50.
14 Mar 2019	Glenroy	Dogs (2)	Broadmeadows	The accused was the owner of two dogs, both in poor condition with no access to water or shelter. A Notice to Comply was issued and not followed, so both dogs were seized with no claim made.	9(1)f 9(1)f	The accused was convicted, fined $2,000 and ordered to pay costs of $1,981.77.
26 Mar 2019	Pine Grove	Dogs (2)	Echuca	The accused was the owner and person in charge of two dogs, both of which were emaciated and one was found deceased. Both dogs were seized and no claim made on the live dog.	10(1)	The accused was convicted, fined $500 (to go to the court fund) and ordered to pay costs of $957. Also disqualified from owning a dog for three years.

*This case is currently being appealed by the accused

January 2019

Date Of Case	Location	Species Involved	Court	Case Details	Charges	Sentence
8 Jan 2019	Lara	Horse (1)	Geelong	The accused was the owner of a horse and despite earlier advice, failed to seek vet treatment. The owner did later arrange a vet who euthanised the horse on humane grounds.	9(1)i	The accused was fined $1,000 without conviction.
23 Jan 2019	Warrak	Cats (122), horse (1)	Ballarat	The accused was the owner of 122 cats and a horse. The cats were suffering from various medical conditions and poor disease management. The horse sustained an injury, and given no treatment was provided it required euthanasia. 23 cats seized and a further 99 cats via a Ministerial Order.	9(1)i, 9(1)i 9(1)i, 9(1)f 9(1)i, 9(1)i 9(1)i, 9(1)i 9(1)i, 9(1)i 9(1)i, 9(1)i 9(1)i, 9(1)i 9(1)i, 9(1)i 9(1)i, 9(1)i 9(1)i, 9(1)i 9(1)i, 9(1)i 9(1)i, 9(1)i, 9(1)I, 9(1)i 9(1)f, 9(1)i 9(1)c,9(1)c 9(1)b,9(1)b 9(1)i,10(1)	On the cat charges, the accused was convicted and sentenced to a fine of $10,000.00, while also ordered to pay prosecution costs of $10,000.00. On the horse charges, the accused was convicted and fined $1,500.00.*
23 Jan 2019	Collingwood	Cat (1)	Melbourne	The accused was the owner of a young cat that was presented to the Animal Emergency Veterinary Clinic in Collingwood by a person who witnessed the accused throw the cat against a wall. The cat suffered severe head trauma and a broken tooth. The cat was subsequently seized under a S24U and held by the RSPCA	9(1)f 9(1)i	Fined $1,000.
31 Jan 2019	Narre Warren	Dog (1)	Dandenong	The accused was the owner and person in charge of a dog who was emaciated and needed vet care. The animal was seized and later surrendered.	9(1)f 9(1)i	Ordered to pay costs of $834 and fined $1,000 with conviction. The accused was also disqualified from being in charge of any animal for five years.
31 Jan 2019	Doveton	Dog (1)	Dandenong	The accused was a neighbour of a dog, and due to frustration with the dog’s barking he beat the dog and caused significant injuries. The dog was taken by the owners to a vet and treated.	9(1)a	Convicted, sentenced to a 18-month Community Corrections Order with 250 hours unpaid community work. Also ordered to pay $3,681 in compensation to the owner of the dog.

*This case is currently being appealed by the accused

February 2019

Date Of Case	Location	Species Involved	Court	Case Details	Charges	Sentence
6 Feb 2019	Hoppers Crossing	Dog (1)	Werribee	The accused, together with the co-accused, were the owner and person in charge of a dog in Hoppers Crossing between February and April 2018. The dog was suffering from an ear infection and matting, and no treatment was provided despite advice and Notice to Comply. Dog subsequently seized and 24X application lodged.	9(1)c 9(1)i	The accused was placed on an adjourned undertaking to be of good behaviour until 03/02/2020. They were ordered to make a donation to the RSPCA of $250 by 6 March 2019. Dog awarded to RSPCA.
6 Feb 2019	Hoppers Crossing	Dog (1)	Werribee	The accused, together with the co-accused, were the owner and person in charge of a dog in Hoppers Crossing between February and April 2018. The dog was suffering from an ear infection and matting, and no treatment was provided despite advice and Notice to Comply. Dog subsequently seized and 24X application lodged.	9(1)c 9(1)i 24ZP	The accused was placed on an adjourned undertaking to be of good behaviour until 03/02/2020. They were ordered to make a donation to the RSPCA of $250 by 6 March 2019. Dog awarded to RSPCA.
12 Feb 2019	Chadstone	Dog (1), rodents (2), tropical fish (66)	Moorabbin	The accused was the person in charge of numerous animals, in breach of her imposed disqualification order. All animals were seized and no claim made.	12AF	The accused was fined $500 and disqualified for a period of five years from being the person in charge of any animal, save for an assistance dog obtained through a named organisation.*
14 Feb 2019	Oaklands Junction	Horse (1)	Broadmeadows	The accused was the owner of a horse who was in poor condition and suffering from laminitis. The accused failed to comply with a Notice to Comply, and the horse was later surrendered to the RSPCA.	9(1)i	The accused was placed on an adjourned undertaking to be of good behaviour for two months.
18 Feb 2019		Miniature pony (1)	Kyneton	The accused was the owner and person in charge of a miniature pony with overgrown hooves, and did not comply with instructions to have a farrier see the animal. The pony was eventually surrendered and remedial farrier treatment was provided.	9(1)i 9(1)c	Ordered to pay costs of $420.55 and fined $1,200.00
27 Feb 2019	Prahran	Possum (1)	Melbourne	The accused set a total of 8 unprescribed traps. A possum was caught in a trap and subsequently killed by the accused.	10(1)	Fined $500 without conviction

*This case is currently being appealed by the accused

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