RSPCA WA has recorded a massive 115 per cent increase in calls this year about animals in the City of Swan suffering from untreated medical conditions.
Since 1 January this year, 168 reports of owners failing to take steps to alleviate the harm their pets are suffering have been recorded from suburbs
within the local government area, up from 79 for the same time last year.
Reports about animals without sufficient food and water have climbed from 109 to 131; a 20 per cent jump.
The increases are in line with a state-wide trend of owners finding it increasingly difficult to afford the basics of animal care such as vet treatment, parasite prevention, and even food.
In response, RSPCA WA will hold a community outreach day for City of Swan residents, 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 Rosher Hall in Lockridge on Monday, 10 August.
RSPCA WA Chief Operating Officer Hannah Dreaver said the organisation was increasingly focused on preventing welfare problems before they escalated into cruelty reports.
"The City of Swan had the highest amount of animal cruelty reports (662) of all WA LGAs when our cruelty statistics were last compiled," Ms Dreaver said.
"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 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 Lockridge Community Action Day will run from 1pm to 3pm and 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 here.
RSPCA WA thanks the City of Swan, South Metropolitan TAFE, Vetwest, Petbarn Foundation, Vets Beyond Borders, and volunteers for their support.
