By Laura Michell
Complaints about animal cruelty have increased in Hume and Whittlesea in the past year, according to new data.
An RSPCA Victoria analysis of animal cruelty reports reveals 410 reports were made in Hume in 2018-19, up from 376 in 2017-18.
The RSPCA received 383 complaints about animals in Whittlesea, up from 311.
The organisation received 11,638 animal cruelty reports in total. Geelong recorded the highest number of complaints (617).
RSPCA Victoria chief executive Liz Walker said she was disappointed to note that neglect made up the highest proportion of animal cruelty concerns across the state.
“Neglect is a form of cruelty, and it is heartbreaking to know so many animals continue to suffer across our state due to lack of basic care,” Dr Walker said.
“The 2018-19 animal cruelty report statistics clearly illustrate the need for further education and for people to seek help if they are having trouble providing basic care for their animals.”
Other animal cruelty complaints commonly related to concerns about hygiene, grooming and housing conditions; reports of underweight animals, sick and injured animals not receiving veterinary treatment; concerns about animals being beaten or wounded; and abandoned animals.
Reports were most commonly made about dogs and puppies, followed by cats and kittens, and horses.
Dr Walker said while reports of cruelty had increased, it was an indication of the high standards Victorians expected for good animal
welfare.
“Looking at these figures, it’s easy to feel disheartened. However, it’s affirming that each individual report made to our inspectorate represents a person who has acted on their concern for an animal,” she said.
“The individuals who make these reports give voice to vulnerable animals who can’t speak for themselves.”
