A 70-year-old man and 61-year-old woman pleaded guilty to committing one act of aggravated cruelty for permanently deformed, fly-bitten ears in relation to four dogs and four acts of failing to provide veterinary treatment to eight dogs suffering from multiple veterinary conditions, including ear infections, entropion, conjunctivitis, ulcerated wounds and fly bite in another dog.
Of the 10 adult dogs found on the property, RSPCA NSW said eight appeared to be suffering from varying levels of fly bite wounds and were seized.
The pair said they had been treating the wounds.
They were disqualified from acquiring, owning or having anything to do with the care of animals for a period of five years and each was ordered to dispose of any other animals in their care within 28 days.
RSPCA NSW Chief Inspector Scott Meyers said the prolonged suffering these dogs endured was completely preventable.
“Some of these animals have permanent deformities that they will need to live with for the rest of their lives, due to their owners’ complete disregard and disinterest in following simple instructions to improve their welfare,” he said.
All the dogs have received tailored medical and behaviour plans to assist with their rehabilitation. Out of the eight dogs seized, three have been adopted. Sadly, despite the RSCA’s best efforts, one was humanely euthanised as a consequence of the severe medical conditions.
Pair pay price for cruelty to animals
A PADSTOW couple have been fined $12,000 each and ordered to pay veterinary care and shelter costs of more than $20,000, after being charged with animal cruelty.
