Decade-long ban on owning pets due to severely emaciated dog

Twitch had a body score of one, which is the worst possible score. Photo: RSPCA ACT.

CONTENT WARNING: This article refers to animal cruelty.

A man and a woman charged over their severely emaciated dog were banned from owning animals for 10 years when they were sentenced.

The couple faced the ACT Magistrates Court on Thursday (20 March), where they both pleaded guilty to one count of committing an act of animal cruelty.

In 2022, the RSPCA had warned them about animal treatment and chose not to lay charges over separate allegations, the court heard.

Then, on 1 June 2024, police were called to the woman’s home in Waramanga, where they saw an emaciated dog, a large mixed breed called ‘Twitch’, and called the rangers.

The woman said she was aware her dog had been losing weight. When told the RSPCA would be taking him away for treatment, she said, “You have to do what’s best for the dog”.

A vet examined Twitch and reported he was severely emaciated with a body score of one out of nine, which meant he had the worst score possible.

The vet also said he was suffering from a urinary tract infection, dental disease and possibly a cancerous mass. However, these would not have stopped him from gaining weight if he had been given enough food.

The RSPCA then spoke to the woman again, who said Twitch was 14 years old and belonged to her and her partner. She claimed the reason for his weight loss was that he wasn’t getting enough wet dog food.

She also said she thought he may have cancer, but didn’t take him to a vet because she was afraid of what the vet would do when they saw his condition.

The woman later told the RSPCA she knew the dog deserved better, but she had a lot going on and had been struggling with her mental health.

Sadly, due to his condition and discomfort, Twitch was euthanised after a professional veterinary recommendation. Permission was given by the owners, the RSPCA ACT said.

The RSPCA said the man and woman were both disqualified from owning a pet for 10 years, were told to complete 30 hours of community service and handed a 12-month community corrections order when they were sentenced.

Twitch had to be euthanised due to his poor condition. Photos: RSPCA ACT.

RSPCA ACT CEO Michelle Robertson welcomed the sentence and said she hoped the penalties would send a clear message.

“Our pets are sentient beings and have thoughts, fears and desires, but they need us to look after them,” she said.

“On this occasion, poor Twitch was so severely emaciated he had practically no chance of survival.

“To think what he must have felt being mistreated in this manner is horrific.”

Ms Robertson said an integral part of being a responsible pet owner was seeking veterinary advice if you suspect your pet is unwell.

“If you see your pet is sick or struggling, you must seek help. Quite simply, it’s the law and it’s your responsibility,” she said.

Ms Roberston said cost of living pressures can present challenges, but there was no excuse for allowing an animal to deteriorate and suffer the way Twitch suffered.

“We are here to help. If you’re having trouble caring for your pet, at least ring our team. We will always listen and do whatever we can,” she said.

“This situation was completely avoidable and it’s heart-breaking for the animal and for our staff who encounter animals in such horrible condition.”

Anyone who is experiencing difficult times with their animals is encouraged to call the RSPCA ACT on 6287 8100 for advice.