Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, animal cruelty continues so RSPCA Victoria’s Inspectors are continuing to investigate animal cruelty reports across the state, while taking care to adhere to strict health, safety and social distancing guidelines.
On Wednesday 8th April 2020, RSPCA Victoria Inspectors successfully executed a warrant on a property in Melbourne’s south-east and removed 18 animals including cats, pocket pets and native animals.
RSPCA Victoria is now investigating the poor living conditions in which the animals were found and the lack of a basic level of care. Housed on a property in the Greater Dandenong City Council area, a number of the animals were found to be living in their own excrement and urine.
“Animal owners need to properly care for their pets before they consider bringing additional pets into their home. This includes providing adequate housing and living conditions,” stated RSPCA Victoria Inspectorate Team Leader, Stuart Marchesani, who is leading the investigation.
“The owner in this case will be held responsible for their actions and we will continue to work with them on how to better care for and house specific species.
“This case also highlights the importance of desexing animals to avoid unplanned litters, that in turn require responsible rehoming, either privately or through an animal shelter.”
The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act requires that those who have the responsibility for the welfare of animals must provide a basic level of care including the provision of food, water, shelter and veterinary care.
“RSPCA first investigated the property concerned last year. Previous inspections found animals in various states of poor welfare condition, with some found deceased and others requiring humane euthanasia. Despite RSPCA intervention and removal of animals, there was no improvement in welfare conditions for animals at the property, which resulted in the seizure of all remaining animals at the property.”
This is an active investigation and therefore no additional details can be released at this time.
Anyone who has concerns about the welfare of an animal is encouraged to make a report to our Inspectorate via our website at www.rspcavic.org/report or by calling us on 9224 2222.
