RSPCA WA has charged a 47-year-old woman with animal cruelty after her dog was found emaciated at her Beechboro home.
An RSPCA WA inspector attended the address in April following a cruelty report from the City of Swan.
The inspector used a ladder to look over a fence into the backyard where she saw a brindle American Staffordshire crossbreed dog who she described as 'severely emaciated'. The outline of the four-year-old dog's hips, ribs and spine were all clearly visible and her eyes sunken.
The inspector phoned the accused who claimed she was away but had organised for someone to feed the dog.
Given the dog's condition, the lack of any available food, and the dirty state of the yard, the inspector seized the dog.
A vet examination found the dog had a body condition score of 2 out of 9. She had minimal muscle and no palpable fat. The dog continues to recover in the RSPCA's care.
The accused has been charged under sections 19(1) and 19(3)(d) of the Animal Welfare Act 2002. It is alleged that she was cruel to an animal in that she did not provide sufficient food.
The charge will be heard in the Midland Magistrates Court on 3 August.
The maximum penalty for a charge of animal cruelty is a $50,000 fine and five years in prison.
Report cruelty 24/7 on 1300 CRUELTY (1300 278 358) or online here.
