Staffy-cross Lily was underweight, with her spine, hips and ribs clearly visible, when she was found by the RSCPA.
Camera IconStaffy-cross Lily was underweight, with her spine, hips and ribs clearly visible, when she was found by the RSCPA. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Thornlie: Woman fined, banned from owning pets after animal cruelty prosecution

Matt ZisCanning Gazette

A THORNLIE woman whose malnourished and flea-ridden dog was seized by the RSPCA in April has been fined $5000 and barred from being in contact with animals for three years.

RSCPA WA inspectors reported Lily, a Staffy-cross, as being in a very poor condition when they were called to a Thornlie property by people concerned for the dog’s health.

They said the dog’s spine, hips and ribs were clearly visible, her coat infested with fleas and she had a urinary tract infection.

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Speaking after the woman was sentenced in Armadale Magistrates Court on Tuesday, RSPCA WA chief inspector Amanda Swift said she was pleased the woman had been held to account for allowing Lily, a Staffy-cross, to suffer.

“She has shirked her responsibility to look after Lily and now pays a hefty price,” Ms Swift said.

“Lily was particularly vulnerable as she relied solely on her owner for basic care.

“Her suffering was very apparent and could have easily been avoided, had her owner provided food, water and simple pest treatment for fleas, which can be easily found in any supermarket.”

Lily will remain in the care of the RSPCA and is set to find a new, permanent home in about a month.

Lily has spent time with a foster carer to recuperate.
Camera IconLily has spent time with a foster carer to recuperate. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

“We’re so glad she’s made a full recovery and can now be rehomed with a loving family,” Ms Swift said.

“We’re thankful to the community for reporting Lily’s condition to us before it got worse.

“If you can’t provide for your pets, seek help – don’t subject them to unnecessary harm.”