SPCA prosecutes owner who left dog to starve to death

The offender was sentenced in the Invercargill District Court after pleading guilty to failing to ensure his dog received treatment to alleviate unnecessary pain or distress.

In June 2023, Invercargill City Council Animal Control Officers attended the offender’s property and discovered Mike, a tan Staffordshire Bull Terrier, already deceased inside a kennel. SPCA was contacted, and Inspectors executed a search warrant the following day.

Evidence suggested that Mike had been tethered in the same spot for an extended period, with a rusted chain connecting him to the kennel, and ground completely worn down in the area he was restricted to. His body was in extremely poor condition, emaciated to the point that his ribs, spine, and pelvis were clearly visible.

A post-mortem veterinary examination confirmed that Mike had the lowest possible body condition score, with all fat reserves depleted, indicatingMike was starved over several weeks. His stomach and intestines were almost entirely empty.

SPCA CEO Todd Westwood says the case is a tragic example of neglect that could have been prevented.

“Mike’s suffering was entirely avoidable. This case is a clear reminder that if an animal is unwell, seeking veterinary care is not optional, it’s a basic responsibility of pet ownership,” says Mr Westwood.

“The prolonged tethering of dogs is totally unacceptable and heartbreaking, that is why SPCA successfully advocated for stronger regulations to end this cruel practice and ensure no dog has to endure the same tragic fate as Mike.”

New regulations to address prolonged tethering of dogs will be released later this year. The prolonged tethering of dogs is an issue that our inspectors deal with daily. While it is difficult to gather accurate numbers, it is safe to say this issue impacts the lives of thousands of dogs in New Zealand.

The offender admitted he had not checked on Mike for about a week and had noticed his dog was malnourished. He acknowledged that he had not contacted a vet or SPCA, stating he could not afford to do so.