A 54-year-old Midland man has been charged with animal cruelty, after allegedly leaving his two dogs shut inside a car without water.
RSPCA WA received several cruelty reports about the dogs, with callers claiming the pair had been left in the vehicle for extended periods over two days.
An inspector attended on 25 October 2022 and found the male and female kelpie-cross dogs inside the car, which was around 25C at the time.
The inspector noted a strong smell of mould as well as evidence of urine and faeces. The vehicle was cluttered with household items and rubbish, limiting the dogs' movement.
The inspector seized the dogs due to suspected animal welfare offences. She took them to an emergency vet where they were found to be dehydrated. When provided with water, both dogs drank frantically.
The accused has been charged under sections 19(1), 19(3)(b)(ii) and 19(3)(d) of the Animal Welfare Act 2002. RSPCA WA will allege the dogs were confined in a manner likely to cause harm, and that the accused failed to provide them with sufficient water.
The charges will be heard in Midland Magistrates Court on 27 March.
The maximum penalty for a charge of animal cruelty is a $50,000 fine and five years in prison.
The RSPCA relies on the community to report incidents of suspected cruelty and neglect. Report cruelty 24/7 on 1300 CRUELTY (1300 278 358) or online here.
