The dog was tethered to a rusted chain connecting him to the kennel, with evidence that he had been chained up for some time. Photo: 123rf
An Invercargill man has been sentenced to 200 hours of community work for letting his dog starve to death.
The man appeared at the Invercargill District Court on Tuesday, following the death of the tan Staffordshire bull terrier in 2023. He pleaded guilty to failing to ensure his dog received treatment to alleviate unnecessary pain or distress.
Invercargill City Council animal control officers found the dog dead inside a kennel in June 2023
The SPCA said the man - who it has not named - did not get veterinary care for the badly malnourished dog.
There was also evidence the animal had been chained to the same spot for a long time, with a rusted chain connecting him to the kennel.
The SPCA said the dog's body was "in extremely poor condition, emaciated to the point that his ribs, spine, and pelvis were clearly visible".
The dog had the lowest possible body condition score, with all fat reserves depleted, suggesting it had been starved over several weeks. His stomach and intestines were almost entirely empty.
The man has been disqualified from owning dogs for five years. He was also ordered to pay reparation of $233.88 for veterinary costs and $500 towards legal costs.
SPCA chief executive Todd Westwood said the dog's suffering was entirely avoidable.
"This case is a clear reminder that if an animal is unwell, seeking veterinary care is not optional, it's a basic responsibility of pet ownership.
"The prolonged tethering of dogs is totally unacceptable and heartbreaking, that is why SPCA successfully advocated for stronger regulations to end this cruel practice and ensure no dog has to endure the same tragic fate."
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