The Mandurah community responded in droves to the RSPCA’s Community Action Day, which coordinator Nat Foster said was one of the biggest of this kind of event they’ve had yet.
More than 250 owners brought their furry friends along to Rushton Park on Wednesday, where they received free check-ups from South Metro TAFE vets and vet nurses, along with a variety of other goodies.
“They come down, they get free advice, they get further information about how they can get treatment, or a consultation on surgery, and microchipping,” South Metro TAFE lecturer Carly Backhouse-Smith said.
She said the day was good experience for her students, who were getting animal handling experience, assisting with examinations and treatment, and getting a start on their careers.
She said most of the issues they were finding related to skin conditions, fleas, and sterilization.
“A lot of these guys haven’t had their dogs to see a vet for quite some time," Ms Foster said.
“The object for today is just to help those people who are struggling, we’ve got pensioners down here, we’ve got single mums, we’ve got homeless people as well.
“Anybody that’s doing it really tough, we’re here to help before there’s problems for the animals.”
In 2016 the RSPCA identified Mandurah as an animal cruelty hot-spot.
“That doesn’t always mean abuse,” Ms Foster said.
“Cruelty complains can be phone calls we get about dogs that are skinny, dogs that have fleas or medical problems.
“The last thing we want to do is take away animals… if people are struggling, call us, we can help you, all throughout the year,” she said.
“We’re here to help people keep their furry friends in their house for longer.”
Those seeking assistance in caring for their animals can call the RSPCA at 9209 9300.
