Animal cruelty charges laid against Carey Park man after RSPCA claims dehydrated dog tied to clothesline

A 25-year-old Carey Park man has been charged with animal cruelty after a dog was allegedly found dehydrated and tied to a clothesline in his backyard. The man was charged with restraining the dog in a manner likely to cause unnecessary harm, failing to provide proper and sufficient water, and failing to provide shade. It is alleged RSPCA inspectors found a three-year-old male mixed breed dog attached to a chain that had tangled to just half-a-metre long after they were alerted about it on December 23. RSPCA inspectors allege the dog’s collar was twisted and very tight and the dog appeared distressed and was panting heavily, with a dry, red mouth and his tongue hanging out. It is alleged the dog had no access to shade or water. The RSPCA said the dog was seized and was taken to a local vet, who determined he was suffering from dehydration. The dog has since made a full recovery and remains in the care of RSPCA. The man is scheduled to appear in the Bunbury Magistrates Court on May 26. The maximum penalty for an animal cruelty charge is a $50,000 fine and five years in prison.