RSPCA ACT is pleased that a lifetime animal ban was awarded to a Canberra woman in the Canberra Magistrate’s court today.
*Trigger warning*
The woman was sentenced in relation to an incident in February 2024 where her pet dog ‘Chisel” was found extremely malnourished, immobile and maggot infested.
Chisel was seized on welfare grounds and immediately taken to a local vet by ACT Rangers, but did not survive.
In addition to the sentence of being banned from owing pets, Canberra Magistrate Amy Begley also sentenced the woman to a suspended 5-month prison sentence and an 18-month good behavior order.
RSPCA ACT CEO Michelle Robertson welcomed the sentencing.
“We thank the magistrate for passing sentencing in line with community expectations for such a severe animal cruelty matter.”
Ms Robertson added that “it has been rare to have upper threshold sentencing passed down, and one of the outcomes RSPCA ACT has been advocating for.”
RSPCA ACT Inspectors believe this is only the second lifetime ban issued by the Canberra Magistrates Court in the past 10 years.
“Our aim is to protect animals and while poor Chisel suffered terribly and didn’t survive, this lifetime ban could prevent other animals suffering.” said Ms Robertson.
The examining vet noted that Chisel had the lowest possible body score (one), severe dehydration, foul odour of neglect and infestations of maggots in both eyes, ears and mouth.
The vet stated, “There was no reason for the dog to be in this condition. The condition of this animal did not occur overnight and is the result of chronic neglect.”
Ms Robertson also applauded the cooperation between various agencies including Domestic Animal Services and local vets, who worked with RSPCA ACT Inspectors to achieve this outcome.
“Working together with other organisations and the community is the only way we can achieve significant outcomes in animal welfare,” she said.
“No animal should ever suffer the way Chisel did, and each animal deserves to be treated with kindness.”
~ENDS
For more information, photos and interviews with CEO Michelle Robertson, please call Phil Staley, Communications Officer: 0448 801 882.
