RSPCA WA releases alarming findings and a proposal for Broome/Kimberley animal welfare plan

14 March 2014

***Warning: images and content in this media release are of a graphic nature ***

With local authorities and the community calling out for help, in January this year, RSPCA responded by visiting the town to meet with key stakeholders across the community, including the Shire of Broome, WA Police, local veterinarians and local animal rescue group SAFE to understand the situation.

In consultation with these groups and with particular support and assistance from the Shire of Broome, the RSPCA has developed a proposal to assist in the prevention of cruelty to animals in the area and improved education around responsible pet ownership.

RSPCA CEO David van Ooran said "Four key strategies have been developed based on the consultations held with these key groups within the community. These strategies include effective community education and a regulatory compliance function in the area. We believe it is vital for the success of the proposal that all parties work together in partnership to bring about improved animal welfare solutions for the people of Broome and the West Kimberley.

The good news is there is a solution and we have had some good positive discussions with the state government already."

In a graphic presentation of findings from the area, Chief Inspector Amanda Swift said "We believe through education many of these situations could be avoided and we are keen to be able to assist the local shires and the community to bring about significant positive change."

The total cost of the plan is just over $900,000 per annum over 4 years and would include 4 roles for the area including two General Inspectors, a Community Relations Coordinator and Education Officer.

RSPCA stands ready to move on the proposal as soon as sufficient funding can be confirmed and would like to thank key local stakeholders that include the Shire of Broome, WA Police, local veterinarians and animal rescue group - SAFE Broome for their special efforts to raise awareness of the issues and who have made valued contributions throughout the consultation process.

Broome media release 2014

Latest

Administration Support Officer

RSPCA WA has an exciting opportunity for a confident, professional and personable individual to join our team in a frontline position which provides a high level of administration and customer service support for RSPCA WA.
RSPCA WA Pet Census – It's all love despite rising costs

Almost three quarters of WA pet owners celebrate their pet’s birthday, RSPCA WA’s annual pet census found, with over half saying their pet’s biggest impact in life is providing love and companionship.
RSPCA WA foster care far from a drag

RSPCA WA recently published a Facebook post to attract much-needed foster carers for about 30 Burmese cats who were all named after drag queens. The response was overwhelming, with many of the cats now in homes.
Treatment of sick old dog 'outrageous' and 'disgusting'

In Midland Magistrates Court today a 54-year-old Eden Hill man was sentenced to six-months imprisonment, suspended for 12 months, for failing to seek medical care for his 18-year-old Labrador-cross named Bear. He was also prohibited from owning animals for five years.

RSPCA WA foster care far from a drag

RSPCA WA recently published a Facebook post to attract much-needed foster carers for about 30 Burmese cats who were all named after drag queens. The response was overwhelming, with many of the cats now in homes.
Treatment of sick old dog 'outrageous' and 'disgusting'

In Midland Magistrates Court today a 54-year-old Eden Hill man was sentenced to six-months imprisonment, suspended for 12 months, for failing to seek medical care for his 18-year-old Labrador-cross named Bear. He was also prohibited from owning animals for five years.
Cost-of-living continues to bite WA pet owners

West Australian pet owners continue to feel the bite of the cost-of-living and housing crises, with both issues major contributors to a more than 40 percent jump in surrender requests.
Alleged failure to seek care for 18yo dog with large tumour

A 54-year-old Midland man has been charged with animal cruelty after allegedly failing to seek medical care for his 18-year-old Labrador-cross dog.
$6k fine for owner who starved horses to 'skin and bone'

A 40-year-old woman from Champion Lakes has been fined a total of $6,000 for starving her two horses until they were ‘skin and bone’.
Make this Easter a safe one for your four-legged friend

RSPCA WA is urging pet owners to keep a close eye on their animals around chocolate this Easter following a shocking rise in calls to the Animal Poisons Helpline last year.
Million Paws Walk cancelled amid economic pressures

RSPCA WA has made the heartbreaking decision to cancel this year’s Million Paws Walk amid increasing cost-of-living pressures and mounting demands for the organisation’s services.
Man allegedly hid puppy after she suffered broken pelvis

A 46-year-old man has been charged with animal cruelty after he allegedly failed to seek appropriate veterinary care for his puppy who had been hit by a car. It is also alleged he then tried to hide the puppy from RSPCA WA.
Million Paws Walk 2024 FAQ's

Million Paws Walk is an iconic event and a strong brand for the RSPCA with many staff, volunteers, supporters and donors having enjoyed it over the last 25 years in WA. However, the simple fact is that although it is RSPCA WA’s biggest annual fundraising event, ever increasing costs mean it is now prohibitive to stage such a large-scale activity.
Dog beater on 12-month CBO for callous case of cruelty

A 56-year-old Cloverdale man has been sentenced to a 12-month community-based order and permanently prohibited from owning animals for kicking, dragging and punching his Staffordshire terrier during three separate incidents in Kewdale and Belmont.