RSPCA WA fed up with summer neglect

Wednesday, 22 February 2023 12:20

By Monique Welhan

Two-year-old Staffy Cherry is a survivor of summer neglect. PIC: RSPCA WA

RSPCA WA is fed up with ‘sickening and unnecessary’ animal suffering this summer, as cruelty reports climb.

Since December 1, the animal welfare organisation has fielded more than 1000 reports of animals being abandoned, shut inside hot cars, and left to suffer without adequate food, water, or shelter.

Meanwhile, calls about all forms of cruelty and neglect are up nearly eight per cent, compared to the same period in 2021-22.

Last summer, two dogs tragically died after being tied up without shade or water in Perth backyards.

And RSPCA WA Inspector Manager Kylie Green said more deaths were inevitable unless pet owners woke up to risks.

"Heat distress causes immense pain and is a terrible way for an animal to die," she said.

"So much of the suffering we’ve seen so far this summer has been completely unnecessary, and, at times, frankly sickening.

"Walking into a backyard and finding a deceased dog is every inspector’s worst nightmare. And while we can hold these owners to account through prosecution, it’s a heartbreaking reality that we can’t get to every animal in time.

RSPCA WA is calling on owners to please step up and take those extra measures to make sure pets are protected from the heat.

"If you wouldn’t stand outside with bare feet for hours without shade or water, don’t force your pet to," Ms Green said.

Two-year-old Staffy Cherry is a survivor of summer neglect.

She was found starving, dehydrated and unable to stand, after being abandoned by her former owner.

It was 39C on the day she was rescued.

Cherry required emergency vet treatment to save her life but has since made a full recovery and been rehomed.

Her former owner was convicted of animal cruelty.