Two Aucklanders’ charged following severe neglect of dogs

The pair appeared in the North Shore District Court on September 4, where they pleaded guilty to two charges of ill-treatment of an animal.

They were each sentenced to 12 months supervision.

SPCA inspectors were first alerted to the situation in March 2022, after receiving a report of concern about a white crossbreed dog named Tyson at an Auckland property. Upon arrival, inspectors found Tyson in poor body condition, along with another dog, Sarge, whose condition was initially unknown.

The defendants led inspectors to the rear of the property, where both dogs were observed from a distance due to aggressive behaviour. Tyson appeared underweight, with visible ribs and spine, although both dogs retained some muscle mass. The female defendant claimed the dogs had recently been treated for worms and were being fed dog roll twice daily.

SPCA inspectors provided worming tablets and a bag of dry dog food, advising the owner to increase the dogs’ food intake by at least 10 percent. She was also educated on appropriate feeding requirements and informed that a healthy dog should not have visible ribs or spine.

In early June, the woman contacted SPCA stating that Sarge was “very unwell” and that she could not afford veterinary care. Despite multiple attempts to reach her that day, SPCA received no response. An inspector visited the property the following day and, due to the dogs’ continued aggression, was unable to carry out an inspection. Financial assistance was provided to assist with Sarge’s treatment.

Later that month, the woman contacted SPCA once more, reporting that Sarge had collapsed and she had no means to transport him to a vet. Inspectors attended the property the same day, where Sarge was surrendered. He was found to be severely emaciated and barely able to lift his head.

Veterinary examination revealed pressure sores on Sarge’s hip and leg, likely from prolonged periods of lying on hard surfaces. He was extremely emaciated. Due to his critical condition and suffering, Sarge was humanely euthanised.

The following day, SPCA inspectors returned to the property to assess Tyson, who was subsequently seized. A veterinary examination confirmed that Tyson was also severely emaciated. He had minimal muscle mass and was developing pressure sores, with evidence suggesting the neglect had occurred over a period of two to six months.

SPCA Chief Financial Officer Jason Copus said the treatment of the dogs was unacceptable and could have been easily avoided.

“The suffering endured by Sarge and Tyson is utterly unacceptable. These animals were left to deteriorate over months without the care, nutrition, or medical attention they desperately needed, despite assistance from our SPCA inspectors. This case is a stark reminder of the responsibility that comes with pet ownership. Neglect of this nature is not only heartbreaking—it is a serious offence, and we will continue to hold individuals accountable.”

The defendants were also disqualified from owning animals for five years and ordered to pay reparations of $4,867.70.