‘Beyond belief’: Dozens of horses, cats seized from ‘serial’ animal cruelty offender’s property by RSPCA
A woman branded a “serial” animal cruelty offender who left more than 400 animals out of her care over the last decade is in hot water again after animal welfare officers seized dozens of horses and cats found in poor living conditions.
Victoria RSPCA officers carried out a compliance check at the woman’s property at Ararat in the state’s Central Highlands on Wednesday.
A total of 13 horses and 24 cats at the facility were in “poor living conditions” and some were showing signs of illness, the RSPCA said in a statement.
The animals were taken to the RSPCA sanctuary for assessment and veterinary care.
The owner had previously been banned from owning or being responsible for more than five cats for life; In addition, there was a five-year Victorian State Court order banning him from taking charge of more than five horses in 2024.
The RSPCA said Wednesday’s seizure was the fourth time the woman had allegedly breached a court order.
“RSPCA Victoria has removed more than 400 animals from this repeat animal cruelty offender over the last decade,” the organization said in a statement.
RSPCA Victoria Chief Inspector Michelle Green said allegations of repeated breaking of the law and refusal to provide appropriate care to animals were “incredible”.
“The amount of animal cruelty that has been committed on this property over the years is astounding,” he said.
“As an organization that enforces animal cruelty laws, we have done everything we could to stop this person committing crimes and cruelty to animals, but they are ignoring expert animal care advice, legislation and numerous court decisions.
“None of the hundreds of animals deserved the treatment they have been subjected to over the last 10 years.
“Serial crimes like this must not be allowed to continue and we will continue to apply the full force of the legislation to stop these repeat offending.”
The organization called for harsher penalties for crimes of cruelty to animals.
