THE RSPCA WA is warning Perth residents not to take vigilante action over barking dogs after a pet was stabbed and shot last week.
On Thursday, a dog in Gosnells appears to have been stabbed in the throat and shot in the back of the neck with a BB gun.
The owners found the dog in distress when they returned home and rushed him to the vet.
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READ NOWThe vet removed the pellets and stitched up the stab and pellet wounds – he survived and is recovering at home.
On Monday, the RSPCA WA posted a reminder on social media urging people to talk to their neighbours if their pets were barking or causing a disturbance.
“It is not OK to take matters into your own hands and it is a criminal offence under the Animal Welfare Act to harm or injure an animal in this way,” the post said.
They encouraged people to talk to their neighbours about nuisance animals as “they may not be aware of what their pet does while they’re not home”.
“Then follow proper procedures – talk to your local council about what steps you need to take to report it,” the post continued.
“This is a timely reminder to all pet owners to keep an eye on your pets and ensure they have enough enrichment to keep them occupied if you leave them at home for extended periods, so they don’t become a nuisance to your neighbours.”
People who saw anything suspicious on Thursday on May St in Gosnells are encouraged to call the RSPCA Cruelty Hotline on 1300 287 3589.