RSPCA to offer free pet supplies and health checks after spate in animal cruelty reports in Rockingham

RSPCA WA will be in Hillman, near Rockingham, on Monday March 14, offering free supplies and advice to pet owners in need.

Free health checks and microchipping for dogs and puppies, as well as free pet food and parasite treatments, will be available at Ennis Avenue Reserve in Hillman between 10.30am and 12.30pm.

The event, supported by City of Rockingham, aims to address the high number of cruelty reports in the area.

Last year, RSPCA WA inspectors investigated 398 reports in the City of Rockingham, with lack of food and failure to seek vet care emerging as key concerns.

RSPCA WA Executive Manager Animal and Enforcement Operations Hannah Dreaver said by providing onground support and advice, the RSPCA hoped to address animal welfare issues before they escalated.

"If you have any niggling concerns about your pet, or haven’t visited the vet in a while, this is a great opportunity to have them checked over," she said.

"RSPCA WA is bringing around 200kg of pet food, and there will be plenty of hands on deck for health checks, so please come along and take advantage of this free support."

Ten-month-old pup Sam was surrendered to an RSPCA WA inspector from Rockingham recently because his owner could no longer care for him.

But Ms Dreaver said surrender was usually a last resort, and that the RSPCA preferred to support owners through tough times by providing emergency supplies and advice if possible.

"Keeping pets and owners together is usually in the best interests of both," she said.

"Community Action Days aim to take some of the pressure off pet owner who may be going through a tough time or struggling to make ends meet."

People are welcome to bring their dogs along to the event (dogs must be socialised, vaccinated and on a leash at all times).

Due to welfare concerns, cats are not able to attend, however cat advice, food and parasite treatments are available.

While COVID Level 2 requirements are in place, all visitors will be required to maintain social distancing, register via QR Code or manual sign-in, and wear a mask at all times.

City of Rockingham rangers, RSPCA WA inspectors and an RSPCA WA dog trainer will be on hand to answer questions.

The health checks will be conducted by vet staff and students from Murdoch University and South Metro TAFE.

Referrals for discounted treatment with South Metropolitan TAFE will also be available on the day.

Free dog microchipping is not available for litters or breeders.