A Canning Vale man is facing 36 charges of animal cruelty after authorities uncovered an alleged puppy farm with more than 100 dogs living in distressing conditions.
The 40-year-old was charged following a report made by a City of Canning ranger in mid-December. The ranger had responded to concerns about a large number of dogs roaming outside the property.
There were 105 dogs, including groodles, golden retrievers, corgis, French bulldogs, and cocker spaniels. Many were in poor health and kept in overcrowded, unhygienic kennels. Two dogs were taken for urgent veterinary treatment.
RSPCA WA inspectors visited the property soon after and found two Cocker Spaniels inside the house, one of which appeared pregnant. The home had no furniture, a strong smell from dog faeces, and no signs of anyone living there.
When inspectors entered the backyard, they found kennel blocks and enclosed areas packed with 105 dogs and puppies. The breeds included groodles, golden retrievers, corgis, French bulldogs, cocker spaniels, and mixed breeds.
Some dogs had severely matted coats, while others were visibly frightened. One golden retriever puppy had a bulging eye. In one enclosure, about 20 groodles with overgrown coats were confined together.
The man claimed ownership of all the dogs and admitted some needed urgent care, but told inspectors he would not be taking them to a vet.
Over the next 10 days, RSPCA WA staff assessed the animals and began removing them. On Christmas Eve and Boxing Day, they seized the remaining 92 dogs. Most were found in poor hygiene and showing signs of distress.
In April, the court granted civil forfeiture of all 117 dogs, including those born into RSPCA WA’s care.
RSPCA WA has laid charges under the Animal Welfare Act 2002, alleging the man confined the dogs in a way that caused or risked harm, failed to feed them properly, and allowed them to suffer without taking reasonable steps.
Each charge of animal cruelty carries a maximum penalty of a $50,000 fine and five years in prison. The case is set to be heard at Armadale Magistrates Court on June 6.
The City of Canning confirmed it had no prior knowledge of any issues at the property before the ranger’s report last December. According to the City, rangers respond to complaints about animal numbers to ensure residents follow local laws, which limit pet ownership to two dogs or two cats unless a kennel license is held.
Reports of animal cruelty are referred to the RSPCA, as these matters fall under state legislation.
The City has not made any policy changes in response to the incident but says current laws already support the responsible management of pets.
Mayor Patrick Hall praised the ranger’s role in triggering the investigation.
“I’m immensely proud that the diligence of this City’s own Rangers led to the RSPCA’s investigation that has resulted in the prosecution of this matter,” he said.
“As a society we cannot tolerate the mistreatment of animals, and I therefore encourage residents to be diligent and to report any suspicious behaviour where cruelty to animals is suspected.”
Residents are urged to contact the City’s Ranger Service if they notice more than two dogs being kept at a property or suspect any form of neglect.
