In July 2013, RSPCA Inspectors attended a property in response to concerns for the welfare of several birds and ferrets.

The housing and health of the animals was of great concern to our Inspectors, who with council seized the animals. A subsequent vet examination found that many of the birds were infected with a highly contagious, terminal avian disease and others were afflicted with wing, tail and leg breaks.

The maTTer was Taken To courT in augusT 2014, where the Magistrate described the content of photos tendered as evidence as being “disgusting and inhumane, (and) do not do justice (to) conditions that beggar belief”. The accused was convicted, fined $10,000, and disqualified from being in charge of more than five birds for 10 years.

The accused appealed their conviction and sentence, which was heard in the County Court. The accused pleaded guilty and the Judge lessened the fine to $5,000, with the original disqualification remaining.

The photos show the condition of one of the birds when it came into the RSPCA’s care. The final photo shows a number of quails after receiving vet treatment and rehabilitation, looking much healthier and happier.

animal case studiesRSPCA Inspectors work tirelessly to protect animals across Victoria. Our Inspectors are based in Geelong, Melton, Ballarat, Bendigo, Wangaratta, Sale, Pearcedale, Pakenham and Melbourne.

Our Inspectors protect animals from cruelty and neglect by enforcing existing law. RSPCA Inspectors are authorised to enforce the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (POCTAA) 1986 and Part 4 of the Domestic Animals Act (DAA) 1994 in Victoria. They are the only non-government officers with the power to lay charges under POCTAA.

rsPca vicToria

case sTudy one

In 2013, RSPCA Inspectors attended a property to investigate an animal cruelty report.

The horses they found were in appalling condition, with many of them suffering from painful dental, eye, parasite and other health problems. During the investigation of the property, the owners also assaulted our Inspectors. RSPCA Inspectors seized the horses, along with a deceased camel.

In November 2014, the RSPCA attended the Magistrates Court to seek justice for the 16 horses that were mistreated by their owners.

The accused and co-accused faced 14 charges each, including:

• Causing unreasonable pain or suffering to an animal

• Failing to provide proper and sufficient food, drink or shelter

• Failing to provide veterinary or other appropriate attention to a sick or injured animal

• Committing an act of aggravated cruelty that resulted in the death or serious disablement of an animal

• Failing to comply with a formal Notice

• Assaulting and hindering Inspectors

in relaTion To The above-menTioned aggravaTed cruelTy charges, the accused and co-accused were each convicted and sentenced to six months’ imprisonment, wholly suspended for 12 months, and ordered to pay costs to the RSPCA. The Magistrate also imposed a banning order, disqualifying the accused and co-accused from owning any horse, pony or camel for seven years. Under Victorian laws, the maximum banning order is 10 years. In relation to all remaining charges, the accused and co-accused were convicted and fined $50,000 each, which is payable to the Government.

The accused and co-accused appealed their sentence, which was heard in the County Court. The Judge lessened the fine to a total of $29,320 each, with the original disqualification remaining.

14 of the horses have since found loving new homes. Sadly, two of the horses were suffering from advanced medical issues. Every potential treatment avenue was explored, but their conditions were causing pain and suffering, and treatment options would not eliminate this, so they were put to sleep on humane grounds.

The photos show the condition of one of the horses when it came into the RSPCA’s care. The final photo shows one of the horses after receiving vet care and rehabilitation, its condition greatly improved.

case sTudy Two

case sTudy Three

In July 2014, RSPCA Inspectors attended a property to investigate the condition of a dog whose fur was severely matted.

Despite previous advice and Notices to Comply, the owner failed to groom the dog. RSPCA Inspectors seized the dog, which was later surrendered into our care.

in February 2015, the case was heard as a Plea before a Magistrate. The accused was fined $250 and disqualified for a period of two years from being the person in charge of any animal.