Saturday, 2 May 2026

RSPCA WA free community day to support Gosnells pet owners after mass increase in animal cruelty reports

 RSPCA WA free community day to support Gosnells pet owners after mass increase in animal cruelty reports | PerthNow

RSPCA WA Community Action Day – Key Points

Purpose

  • Support struggling pet owners in the City of Gosnells as cost‑of‑living pressures make pet care harder.

  • Part of RSPCA WA’s expanded response to a rise in animal cruelty and neglect reports.

Event Details

  • Where: Maddington Community Centre

  • When: Wednesday, May 6, from 1pm to 3pm

  • Who can attend:

    • Social, vaccinated dogs on a leash

    • Puppies (unvaccinated must be carried)

    • Cats cannot attend, but owners can still collect supplies and advice

  • Registration required (online)

Free Services Offered

  • Dog health checks by South Metropolitan TAFE staff/students

  • Microchipping for dogs (not for litters or breeders)

  • Pet food for dogs and cats

  • Flea and worming treatments

  • Advice from city rangers and dog behaviour specialists

Why It’s Needed

  • RSPCA WA received 412 cruelty reports from Gosnells suburbs last financial year — almost 5% higher than the previous year.

  • Gosnells has the fifth‑highest cruelty incidence rate in WA.

  • Many issues stem from financial pressure, including inability to afford food, vet care, and parasite prevention.

RSPCA WA’s 2026 Plan

  • More than double the number of community outreach days:

    • 23 events planned for 2026 (up from 10 in 2025)

    • Covering Perth metro, the Kimberley, and the Wheatbelt

  • Common problems they aim to address:

    • Chronic skin conditions from fleas

    • Underweight animals

    • Strays without microchips

    • Pets surrendered due to behavioural challenges