A 31-year-old Truganina man has been found guilty of five counts of animal cruelty in the Werribee Magistrates Court.
The man pleaded guilty to two counts of inappropriate confinement and one charge each of beating an animal, causing pain and suffering to an animal, and failing to provide veterinary treatment relating to his dog.
RSPCA Victoria Inspectors first attended the man’s property in 2022 after receiving a report of animal cruelty at the man’s home.
The Inspectors observed the dog living in a small temporary pen with concrete flooring, without weatherproof shelter, and a build-up of excrement in the pen and feeding area.
Despite being issued two Notices to Comply from the Inspectors instructing him to provide clean living conditions and appropriate confinement for his dog and, to arrange a veterinary exam, the man failed to do so and surrendered his dog to RSPCA.
Once in care, RSPCA Victoria’s veterinarians found the dog was suffering from infected wounds and untreated physical injuries, in addition to metal prongs from an electric shock collar embedded in his neck and fractures in his cheekbone, skull, and vertebra.
During sentencing, Magistrate Barling at the Werribee Magistrates Court said the offending was disgusting.
“Hearing that summary made me feel sick, you are very lucky I am not sending you to jail. I am appalled by your behaviour.”
Speaking about the case, RSPCA Victoria’s Chief Inspector, Michael Stagg, said he hoped the court’s decision would send a strong message to other would-be offenders.
“This is a strong outcome and sends a tough message that animal cruelty won’t be tolerated by the community, by RSPCA Victoria, or by the courts,” Chief Inspector Stagg said.
“No animal deserves to suffer the way this dog did, and we will continue to investigate reports like these that come in from the community.”
The man has been convicted and sentenced to a Community Correction Order for 18 months, must complete an animal cruelty program, and is banned from owning dogs for ten years. Costs of $352.69 were also awarded to RSPCA Victoria.
RSPCA Victoria urges anyone with concerns about the welfare of animals to make a report to us at rspcavic.org/cruelty-report/ or on 03 9224 2222.
