A 52-year-old man from Melville has been convicted and fined for a shocking act of animal cruelty that left his tiny Chihuahua with physical injuries and a deep-seated fear of all people.
Disturbing Incident Captured by Witness
The case came to light in October 2024 when a concerned member of the public contacted RSPCA WA after hearing a dog yelping and squealing in distress. The witness reported seeing the offender slamming his four-year-old Chihuahua, named Joey, into an armchair multiple times. The man was heard yelling at the 2.5kg dog to "shut up" as it cried out in pain.
Further thuds and banging were heard, followed by more yelping. About fifteen minutes later, the witness observed the man taking Joey to his car, with the dog's legs hanging down and slightly curled. This prompt report led a WA Police officer to the man's property that same evening, where Joey was seized under the Animal Welfare Act 2002.
Severe Injuries and Psychological Trauma
Joey was rushed to The Animal Hospital at Murdoch University for assessment. Due to his extreme fear and severe behavioural reactions, veterinarians had to sedate him before they could conduct a full examination. The check-up revealed a catalogue of injuries including a bruised ear, redness, hair loss, and scabbing wounds on his neck and stomach. He also had two fractured teeth.
Transferred to RSPCA WA care, Joey was also found to have a fractured tail. More alarming than his physical wounds was his psychological state. Staff reported he was immensely fearful of people and being handled, reacting with snarling, growling, barking, biting, and shaking whenever anyone approached.
A veterinary behavioural specialist confirmed that Joey's severe reactions indicated a history of ill-treatment and a complete loss of trust in human interactions.
Long Road to Recovery and Legal Repercussions
Joey required an intensive, seven-month rehabilitation program with the RSPCA WA behaviour team to begin his recovery. His progress was significant, and in May 2025, he was placed with a dedicated foster carer where he continues to heal.
In Fremantle Magistrates Court, the 52-year-old offender pleaded guilty to charges under the Animal Welfare Act. Magistrate Melissa McEwen described footage of the incident as "distressing to watch" and labelled the man's actions as "disgusting" and "completely uncalled for".
The man was fined $4200 and banned from owning an animal for five years. He was also ordered to pay $14,604.76 in legal costs and reimbursements for Joey's treatment and care. An additional $250 fine was imposed for refusing to provide his date of birth to an RSPCA inspector.
RSPCA WA inspector manager Kylie Green said the offender's treatment of the vulnerable dog was despicable. "Joey weighs around two-and-a-half kilos; the beating could have easily killed him," Ms Green stated. "As it was, Joey would have suffered pain from his broken tail and teeth, and other injuries, and the psychological damage was plain for all to see; he was absolutely terrified."
The maximum penalty for animal cruelty in Western Australia is a $50,000 fine and five years' imprisonment. The RSPCA relies on community reports to combat animal suffering. Suspected cruelty or neglect can be reported on 1300 CRUELTY (1300 278 358) or via the RSPCA WA website.
