RSPCA WA inspectors were in Geraldton and surrounds last week investigating animal cruelty reports, supporting pet owners in need, and connecting with the local community.
Inspectors Taylia Noonan and Sarah Jones were in the Mid West from 18–22 May, attending around 30 jobs involving both cruelty complaints and ongoing investigations, most relating to dogs and cats, as well as one horse welfare matter.
During the visit, the inspectors also attended the Lighthouse Church Community Lunch, where they spoke with local pet owners about RSPCA WA's role in the region, provided practical animal welfare advice, and handed out free pet food, leads, medicated dog wash, and Septicide to people experiencing hardship in caring for their animals.
A brindle ridgeback cross named Sugar was also surrendered into RSPCA WA's care during the trip and transported back to Perth, after her owners' circumstances changed and they were no longer able to care for her.
RSPCA WA Inspector Taylia Noonan said the visit highlighted both the challenges facing some pet owners and the importance of community support.
"Many of the issues we see in regional communities are preventable if people seek help early," Inspector Noonan said.
"We regularly come across unwanted litters of puppies and kittens, untreated skin conditions, and animals that are underweight simply because situations have become overwhelming for their owners.
"That's why opportunities like the Lighthouse Church community lunch are so valuable — they allow us to have conversations, offer practical help, and let people know support is available before things reach crisis point."
Inspector Noonan said the visit also reinforced the importance of community reporting.
"We continue to encourage people to report animal cruelty concerns and to reach out if they're struggling to care for their pets," she said. "Our job is not just enforcement — it's also education, prevention and helping animals and the people who care for them."
RSPCA WA has received 274 cruelty reports from the Mid West Gascoyne region so far this financial year, compared with 254 for the same period last financial year.
RSPCA WA thanked the City of Greater Geraldton rangers for their ongoing support of animal welfare work in the region.
"Strong relationships with local rangers and community organisations make a real difference in helping us protect animals in regional WA," Inspector Noonan said.
RSPCA WA encourages anyone concerned about an animal's welfare to report it via rspcawa.org.au or on 1300 278 358.
