RSPCA Inspectors’ Powers

When investigating any complaint about animal cruelty, an RSPCA inspector’s priority is to determine if a breach of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act has occurred. If so, RSPCA inspectors have the power to prosecute. RSPCA inspectors also provide education about animal welfare and responsible pet ownership.

An RSPCA inspector can fine you up to $500 on-the-spot for a first or a minor animal cruelty offence.

An inspector can use reasonable force to enter your vehicle in order to rescue an animal suffering heat stress.

RSPCA inspectors can enter your property without your consent if they reasonably suspect an offence is being committed against an animal.

They can issue you with instructions about veterinary care, feeding and housing your animal. If you do not follow these instructions, an inspector may take further action.

In cases of extreme cruelty, an inspector can come onto your property and take control of the care of animals, or seize animals and take them to the safety of a shelter.

Depending on the severity of the animal welfare situation an RSPCA inspector will issue you with instructions about the care of your animal. These instructions may relate to correct diet or veterinary treatment. They may also tell you that you must construct proper shelter for your animal.

If you don’t comply with instructions within a specified time period, the inspector can return and seize the animal from you. Inspectors also have the power to euthanase an animal if it is so severely injured or diseased that it is cruel to keep it alive.

Inspectors can enter any animal trade or business and can bring the police or a veterinarian onto any property. You must give your name and address if you are suspected of committing an offence. Inspectors also have the powers of arrest in some circumstances.

The courts

• Can fine a cruelty offender up to $22,000 for aggravated cruelty and/or impose a prison sentence of up to two years.
• Ban a person from buying, owning or caring for an animal.