Loki was just a puppy when he was rescued from a house full of neglected dogs by RSPCA Inspectors.
Every day our RSPCA Inspectors do a tough job to save lives. They do what most of us cannot, which is why your support is vital to ensure we can end animal cruelty and help animals find better lives.
This October, the funds you raise for RSPCA Cupcake Day will help change lives and end animal cruelty
A member of the public sighted a dog in poor condition and made a report to the RSPCA. That same day, one of our Inspectors headed out to investigate.
Once at the property, our Inspector was overwhelmed with a pungent odour emanating from the dwelling. The door to the house displayed a breeder’s licence. Unable to gain entry to the house, the investigation was escalated and a warrant sought.
What our Inspectors saw when executing the warrant was confronting.
So many animals were living in putrid conditions, also suffering from a range of medical issues. These dogs needed urgent help! This was a property of a ‘registered breeder’.
It was an arduous case for our Inspectors with over 30 animals living on site in filthy conditions.
Along with adult dogs, our Inspectors found 20 puppies living inside the dwelling. They appeared hungry - one puppy even trying to eat something from a pile of rubbish. The puppies approached an Inspector and tried to suck their boots and laces. No food or clean, dry bedding to be seen!
The investigation didn’t end inside the house either. Inside the garage, poor Holly was found… left in an unclean crate in the pitch dark with no food or water. She was terrified when approached.
So many animals were living in putrid conditions, also suffering from a range of medical issues. These dogs needed urgent help! This was a property of a ‘registered breeder’.
It was an arduous case for our Inspectors with over 30 animals living on site in utterly filthy conditions.
Along with adult dogs, our Inspectors found 20 puppies living inside the dwelling. They appeared hungry - one puppy even trying to eat something from a pile of rubbish. The puppies approached an Inspector and tried to suck their boots and laces. No food or clean, dry bedding to be seen!
The investigation didn’t end inside the house either. Inside the garage, poor Holly was found… left in an unclean crate in the pitch dark with no food or water. She was terrified when approached.
There were so many welfare concerns for all of the dogs and puppies living at the property. Needless to say, all of the animals were seized by our Inspectors that day.
Once safely in the care of the RSPCA, veterinary exams began for all of the dogs.
Little Loki was given a body condition score of three - on a scale where one is emaciated and nine is obese. He ate ravenously when provided food. Like many of the other pups, Loki had a low body temperature and was anaemic. Our vets confirmed that his condition had been caused due to neglect. Like many of the other puppies seized, Loki also had a hookworm and roundworm burden.
It was horrific to see just how badly these dogs had been suffering.
Loki was one of 34 dogs that went on to find loving families after being rescued from this backyard breeder.
We’re pleased to say Holly also pulled through from her terrible ordeal and found a loving new family who adore her. Her mum says, “She is doing great and she has been great company for me.”
This was in no way an easy investigation and one met with hostility. The ‘registered breeder’ was extremely aggressive, even to Police who assisted the investigation!
Thanks to you, those responsible for this terrible act of cruelty and neglect were taken to court and charged.
Four people pled guilty to numerous breach duty of care charges in relation to this case.
The breeder was prohibited from owning any animals for life!
After making a full recovery from his ordeal, Loki is now finally living the life he always deserved.
Drew and Emily had been looking for a staffy to adopt when they spotted Loki at the RSPCA. Drew said, “He came running straight up to us. He just looked up to us with those beautiful big eyes. We thought he was just perfect. He was the one.’’
Describing Loki as ‘the best dog’ Drew said, “He’s very good natured, he doesn’t bark or growl. I take him to the beach. He just loves people.’’
Please help us by fundraising for RSPCA Cupcake Day, you’ll be helping to end animal cruelty and ensuring that animals like Loki and Holly never have to suffer again.
As the Communications & Media Manager for RSPCA Qld, Emma's passionate about making a real difference and believes every animal has a story to share. She has over nine years experience working in animal welfare and is the voice for the RSPCA on digital, print and broadcast channels.
