Dawesville couple Paul Cahal Cockburn and Heidi Newsome plead not guilty to neglecting dog riddled with cancer
A Dawesville couple is accused of starving their elderly dog, who was suffering from cancer and infections.
Paul Cahal Cockburn and Heidi Newsome pleaded not guilty to failing to take reasonable steps to prevent the suffering of an animal at the Mandurah Magistrates Court on Tuesday last week, but did not appear in person.
RSPCA WA received a cruelty report regarding a 12-year-old American bulldog in March this year.
When investigators visited the couple’s home, they claimed the elderly dog was emaciated, with prominent pelvis, spine and ribs.
Investigators also noted that he had difficulty supporting himself because his back legs collapsed.
The dog was surrendered to RSPCA WA and a veterinary examination revealed he had aggressive blood cancer.
RSPCA WA will claim his ears were chronically infected and they could not be examined without the dog being sedated, he had a mass in his eye and was suffering from muscle wasting and musculoskeletal problems.
Due to the severity and impact of these conditions the dog was put down.
The two will go to trial next year and face a maximum fine of $50,000 or jail time if convicted.
