Woman banned from having pets after starved dog is found in pile of laundry
The dog's last days were described as 'torturous'
- by
Kathryn Lewsey
A woman cannot own a pet for 10 years after a dog was found dead and severely starved, under a pile of laundry at her home.
The Western Australian woman received the sentence after WA RSPCA inspectors searched the Albany home in response to reports from a concerned local.
After obtaining a search warrant, inspectors tragically discovered the mastiff cross’ body.
Yahoo News reported that the woman initially denied owning the dog, known as Dharma, but that the animal was emaciated and deceased when investigators removed the body.
The 27-year-old was issued a fine of $3,500 and issued a 10-year prohibition from owning an animal.
In a statement, RSPCA WA Chief Inspector Amanda Swift said, ‘It is inexcusable to let your family pet suffer so badly like poor Dharma.’
She added, ‘This poor dog’s last days would have been torturous.’
RSPCA
An autopsy report discovered Dharma, 8, suffered from serious atrophy of the bone marrow and pancreatic atrophy.
It also revealed the pooch suffered from suspected pneumonia, likely caused by starvation. This, and life-threatening emaciation, is what caused Dharma’s death.
Ms Swift urged owners to take care of their pets, stating,’Always ask for assistance, nobody should let their pets down in this way – they rely on you for this every need.’
She also asked the public to report any suspected animal cruelty, saying, ‘You are our eyes and ears on the ground.’
Kathryn LewseyKathryn is a Senior Features Writer for that's life! magazine. Her work has been published in The Sun, Daily Mail, Chat, Closer, Kidspot, Real People, Take a Break and MarieClaire.com.au
