RSPCA WA to Host Free Community Pet Care Day in Greenfields to Support Struggling Pet Owners
RSPCA WA is organizing a community pet care day in Greenfields on March 3, providing complimentary advice and essential supplies to pet owners who are grappling with the escalating costs of animal care. This initiative aims to alleviate financial burdens and prevent minor health issues from developing into severe, expensive problems for pets.
High Animal Cruelty Reports in Mandurah Highlight Need for Support
The Mandurah district was ranked eighth in Western Australia for animal cruelty reports during the 2024-25 period, with 255 incidents recorded. Pets often suffer as a direct consequence of their owners' financial difficulties, underscoring the urgent need for community assistance programs.
RSPCA WA chief operating officer Hannah Dreaver emphasized that the organization continues to witness the profound impact of the cost-of-living crisis on pet welfare. "Even though there was a 12 per cent drop in cruelty reports from the City of Mandurah last financial year, the numbers remain alarmingly high," Ms Dreaver stated. "Dogs accounted for 88 per cent of these reports, so we particularly encourage dog owners in need to attend."
Comprehensive Services Offered at the Event
The community day will feature a range of free services designed to support pet health and owner education. Staff and volunteers from RSPCA WA will be stationed at Bortolo Park in Greenfields from 9am to 11am on March 3, offering:
- Health checks and microchipping for dogs
- Flea and worming treatments for both cats and dogs
- Dog training tips and behavioral advice
- Answers to general pet care queries from experts
Veterinary staff and students from South Metropolitan TAFE will conduct the health checks, ensuring professional care. Additionally, a RSPCA dog trainer, inspectors, and City of Mandurah rangers will be present to provide guidance and support.
Addressing Common Pet Health and Welfare Issues
Ms Dreaver highlighted that common problems encountered by RSPCA staff include untreated skin conditions often caused by chronic flea infestations, underweight animals, stray pets lacking microchips, and animals surrendered due to behavioral challenges. "We can effectively address all of these issues at events like this one," she affirmed. "Our community days are specifically designed to ease pressure on family budgets and help stop small health problems from becoming major, costly ones."
Event Logistics and Important Guidelines
Registration through the RSPCA website is mandatory for attendance to ensure proper planning and resource allocation. Social and vaccinated dogs and puppies are welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times for safety. Due to welfare concerns, cats are not permitted to attend the event in person, though their owners can still receive advice and treatments for them.
This proactive approach by RSPCA WA seeks to foster a supportive community environment, reduce animal suffering, and promote responsible pet ownership amidst ongoing economic challenges.
