More than 260 cases of animal cruelty in the inner-west have been reported to the RSPCA over the past year.
Figures obtained from RSPCA Victoria reveal 147 reports concerning the welfare of animals in Maribyrnong and 126 in Hobsons Bay in the 12 months to June 30.
RSPCA Victoria received 10,180 cruelty reports across the state in 2016-17, about 28 per day.
Chief executive Dr Liz Walker said reports about animals not receiving basic care outnumbered all other offences.
“It’s disappointing to see that, for the second year in a row, too many Victorian animals were reported to us because of concerns about very basic issues: food, water, shelter and vet care when they’re sick or injured. These kinds of problems are so preventable,” she said.
Dr Walker said RSPCA Victoria has been working with local councils to understand local animal welfare issues and to better protect animals and educate owners.
Of 147 reports in Maribyrnong, 108 involved dogs and puppies and 38 involved cats and kittens.
Of 126 reports received in Hobsons Bay, 95 involved dogs and puppies, 28 involved cats and kittens and three involved horses.
Dr Walker said most cases were resolved by inspectors educating owners and reminding them of their legal obligations to care for their animals.
Benjamin Millar
