RSPCA WA received 107 cruelty reports from shires in the Kimberley last financial year, up 23 per cent on2024/25, and the number of animals from the region entering RSPCA WA's care doubled.
Nine cats, two dogs and seven puppies who were the subject of cruelty reports were surrendered to inspectors – 18 animals in total compared to nine in FY25.
RSPCA WA says the underlying theme in general neglect – animals suffering from lack of food and untreated medical conditions.
The jump is in line with a state-wide trend of owners finding it increasingly difficult to pay for the basics of animal care such as vet treatment, parasite prevention, and even food.
Since 1 January this year, 278 animals have been surrendered to RSCA WA by owners who say they can't afford pet food or health care – a 52 per cent increase from the 183 received for the same period last year.
In response, RSPCA WA will hold community outreach days in Broome and Derby later this month offering free support including pet health checks, microchipping, flea and worm treatments, pet food and expert behaviour advice.
Pet owners in need can access the help at Haynes Oval in Broome on Saturday 29 August from 9am-12pm and at the Derby Youth Centre on Sunday 30 August from 9am to 11am.
RSPCA WA Chief Operating Officer Hannah Dreaver said the organisation was increasingly focused on preventing welfare problems before they escalated into cruelty reports.
"By the time our inspectors become involved, animals are often already suffering from problems that started out relatively small and treatable.
"That's why these community outreach days are so important. They connect pet owners with practical support before a manageable issue becomes an animal welfare concern.
"We know most people love their pets and want to do the right thing. Sometimes they just need a bit of help with food, parasite treatment, microchipping, or access to advice.
"Keeping pets healthy and with the families who care about them is better for the animals, better for owners and better for the community."
Last financial year, RSPCA WA's Community Action Day program has supported more than 1,800 pet owners, and delivered over 800 health checks, 1,400 parasite treatments and around 2.5 tonnes of pet food across the state.
The Broome and Derby Community Action Days will provide:
• Free health checks for dogs and puppies
• Free dog microchipping (excluding litters and breeders)
• Free flea and worm treatments for dogs and cats
• Free pet food for families experiencing financial hardship
• Free chain exchange program
• Dog training and behaviour advice
• Educational information about responsible pet ownership
All dogs must remain on leads at all times. Please notify staff upon arrival if your dog is reactive.
Unvaccinated or newly vaccinated puppies need to be carried. Cats cannot attend for welfare reasons; however, cat owners are encouraged to attend to access free supplies and advice. Pet owners who would like to attend are asked to register on the RSPCA WA website.
RSPCA WA thanks the Shire of Broome, Shire of Derby-West Kimberley, Vetwest, Petbarn Foundation, and Vets Beyond Borders for their support.
