A 56-year-old Maylands man has been charged with animal cruelty following an alleged incident involving a dog at a client's home.
It is alleged that on 23 January 2026, the accused attended a property in Maylands in his capacity as a physical therapy assistant with a not-for-profit provider of in-home health and aged care services.
During the visit, the accused allegedly approached a female Jack Russell who was sitting on a couch. CCTV footage allegedly shows the accused cornering the dog before striking her multiple times with an electric bug-zapper racket over a period of approximately 35 seconds.
The dog is heard yelping and barking in distress and can be seen attempting to escape during the incident.
The following day, a person caring for the dog reportedly observed what appeared to be blood on nearby surfaces, as well as damage and red staining to the racket, which had previously been in new condition.
A subsequent vet examination of the dog found she had a nose injury consistent with trauma, and was exhibiting signs of pain and behavioural changes including anxiety and increased clinginess.
RSPCA WA will assert a specialist veterinary behaviour consultant who reviewed the CCTV footage concluded the dog experienced severe distress and panic during the incident and may suffer ongoing psychological harm.
The accused is due to appear in the Perth Magistrates Court on 22 May 2026.
He has been charged under sections 19(1) and 19(2)(a) of the Animal Welfare Act 2002.
The maximum penalty for an animal cruelty conviction in Western Australia is a $50,000 fine and five years' imprisonment.
The RSPCA relies on the community to report suspected cruelty and neglect. Reports can be made on 1300 CRUELTY (1300 278 358) or online at rspcawa.org.au
