Animal Law:

In NSW, animal law is governed by the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (the “Act”). The object of the Act is to prevent animal cruelty and to promote the care and welfare of animals.

The Act prescribes a number of offences against animals that can be punishable by fine and/or imprisonment. The most common offences include:

• Cruelty to animals including aggravated cruelty;
• Animals are to be provided with adequate food, water and shelter;
• Confined animals need to be exercised;
• Abandonment of animals;
• Prohibition against animal catching activities;
• Traps are not to be set.

The Act provides a wide range of powers upon the RSPCA. Such powers include authorising inspectors to:

• Enter and search a property (subject to a search warrant being granted);
• Examine animals;
• Take possession of animals;
• Provide care and treatment for the animal;
• Humanely destroy an animal where appropriate;
• If satisfied that there are reasonable grounds to believe that a person has committed an offence under the Act, serve a notice on the owner demanding compliance with the Act;
• Seize and destroy stock animals if an official warning has not been followed and the animal remains in distress or is likely to be in distress.

If you require assistance with your Animal Law & Pets Law matter, you may wish to contact our firm and arrange an appointment to see one of our Animal Law & Pet Law Solicitors. Please call us on (02) 9233 4048 or send an email to info@navado.com.au. 

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