Just after 1:00 PM on a warm February afternoon, AWL NSW Inspectors received a report with video footage showing a dog in distress. The team acted quickly and travelled to Blaxland.
They met with the person who provided the footage, but unfortunately the man they were looking for had left the scene. The team began door knocking the area, gathering information and following up leads.
Inspectors received new information that evening and at about 8:30 PM, Inspectors and police attended a property where the man they were looking for returned home with the dog. Inspectors were able to assess him and determined that he needed to be taken into AWL NSW care.
The dog, named Hercules, was safely secured and transported straight to a vet for assessment and care. The following morning, he was transferred to AWL NSW’s Kemps Creek shelter, where he could begin settling in and receiving the support he needed.
The owner was found guilty of animal cruelty offences and convicted by the court. As part of the sentencing, they were prohibited from owning or caring for any animals for a period of five years.
Thanks to a community member who spoke up, the assistance of Springwood Police and the dedication of our Inspectorate team, Hercules is now safe and on the path towards a brighter future.
If you’re worried about an animal’s welfare or concerned about animal cruelty, please contact the AWL NSW Inspectorate on 02 8777 4444 or report online at www.awlnsw.com.au/report-cruelty.
