RSPCA ACT is appealing to pet owners and those in the community to contact them when help is needed after noticing a disturbing trend in recent months. The organisation’s inspectors say they are seriously concerned for the welfare of animals in our region after an increase in reports of emaciated dogs.

“It’s worrying to see so many starving animals in the community. We had at least one emaciated dog per day come into RSPCA ACT’s care over a period of one week in October,” says Chief Inspector Warrick Dunstan.

While times are tough for many, it shouldn’t be our pets who rely on us to feed and keep them safe who pay the price, especially when there are places and services willing to help, says Inspector Duncan.

“Owners who willfully perpetuate cruelty will have their animal seized and they will face charges.”

The organisation wants to thank all members of the public who have called in suspected reports of animal cruelty, all matters of which they take seriously.

RSPCA ACT is asking owners who are struggling to care for their pets to act as quickly as possible when seeking help or surrendering their pets. They are grateful for the owners who have recognised their limitations in providing a safe home and contacted them.

CEO Michelle Robertson is appealing to struggling owners to contact the RSPCA ACT so they can ensure the animals are provided with the love and care they deserve.  

In addition to the help and services they offer, RSPCA ACT advises there are other places pet owners can reach out to, including:

– Asking their local vet for help

– Community pantries, many of which are able to provide pet food

– ACT pet crisis support for urgent funding support

– ACT Government’s Domestic Animal Services

– ACT Mental Health

– Pets and Positive Ageing

– Rainbow Paws.

If you suspect a case of animal cruelty, contact the RSPCA ACT inspectors via the form on their website at rspca-act.org.au

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