RSPCA Victoria is reminding pet owners of their legal and moral obligations to look after their animals, after Inspectors uncovered a pet dog in a severe state of emaciation earlier this month.
An Inspector visited a property in the south-east suburbs in response to a report of concern for a dog’s welfare. On arrival, a four-year-old German Shepherd named Bobby was found acutely emaciated and in ill-health.
After successfully negotiating the dog’s surrender, Bobby was taken to RSPCA Victoria’s Burwood East clinic where the veterinary team provided emergency care and pain relief.
With a body condition score of just one out of five (1/5), Bobby was emaciated, covered in ulcerative lesions with secondary infection and presented with swollen hind limbs. He had acute muscle wastage and was in severe pain, with one ulcer over his left hip creating a hole so deep that it extended down to the joint capsule.
RSPCA Victoria’s vets did all they could to alleviate the dog’s pain and suffering, however given his dire condition and poor prognosis, the difficult decision was made to humanely euthanase him.
RSPCA Victoria Inspectorate Team Leader, Stuart Marchesani, said it was unacceptable to leave an animal to suffer in the manner Bobby would have experienced.
“It doesn’t take days or even weeks for an animal to deteriorate to this sort of condition, this is gross neglect that has gone on for months and months. Sadly, Bobby would have been in significant pain and discomfort for a long time before we found him. It’s a particularly distressing case as he was only four years old,” Mr Marchesani said.
“All pet owners must take full responsibility for the animals in their care and, if they are no longer able to provide adequate care, we urge them to talk to RSPCA Victoria about their options.
“There is no excuse for animal neglect and those found guilty under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act face fines up to $82,610 and two years’ imprisonment.”
