A 29-year-old Truganina woman has been fined and banned for 10 years from owning animals after being found guilty on three counts of animal cruelty at the Wyndham Magistrates’ Court, November 11, 2025. 

RSPCA Inspectors attended a Truganina property after receiving a report about a dog in poor condition from a member of the public. 

RSPCA Inspectors attended the property and observed a Maltese Terrier in poor condition with large visible abdominal masses, rotten teeth, swollen gums and foul-smelling breath. 

The accused was issued a directive to provide veterinary care, but failed to do so despite multiple follow-ups, which led to the seizure of the dog under a warrant. 

An RSPCA Victoria veterinarian said the animal was suffering from multiple painful chronic conditions. and its dental disease would have caused pain to the animal and would have taken at least a year to reach that state. 

“The dog presented with a large, ulcerative mammary mass which she was observed to be incessantly licking, as well as multiple smaller mammary masses, severe dental disease with malodourous breath, and a matted and burr infested coat.” 

The presiding magistrate, Her Honour Magistrate McGarvie, said animal abuse was a serious charge. 

“I take abuse to animals as seriously as violence to a person,” her Honour said. 

The accused was found guilty on three charges, and was fined $2,500.00, ordered to pay costs of $4,434.19, and disqualified for 10 years from owning or being in charge of any domestic animal. 

RSPCA Victoria Chief Inspector, Michelle Green, said the prolonged neglect and suffering inflicted on the dog was unacceptable and entirely preventable.  

“This dog’s need for urgent veterinary care was evident to any reasonable person, and we are grateful the dog received the care and compassion it deserved during its time at the RSPCA clinic.” Chief Inspector Green said. 

“Cases like this underscore why community reports are vital to ending animal cruelty.” 

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

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

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