An Elwomple woman has been sentenced after pleading guilty to eight counts of animal ill-treatment and breaching an animal prohibition order.
The 42-year-old was sentenced in the Adelaide Magistrates Court on Wednesday, following an inspection of her property by RSPCA SA inspectors and South Australia Police in July 2024.
Inspectors found 8 cats, 10 chickens, 12 chicks, 4 dogs, 4 ferrets, 7 rabbits and a snake at the property.
RSPCA SA said most of the animals were kept in confined areas contaminated with faeces, with limited access to food and water. The available water was visibly dirty.
Four five-year-old dogs – Mystic, Boof, Nibbles and Saidy – were of particular concern, with several suffering skin conditions and other health problems.
A total of 36 animals were seized and taken to RSPCA SA’s Animal Care Campus at O’Halloran Hill for veterinary assessment and treatment.
The woman had previously been convicted in 2018 and was prohibited from owning more than four cats, four birds and 10 chickens.
In court on Wednesday, Magistrate Burton sentenced her to two months and 21 days imprisonment, reduced from three months because of her early guilty plea.
The sentence was suspended on a 12-month, $200 good behaviour bond.
She was also ordered to pay $2,500 towards RSPCA SA’s legal costs and the compulsory Victim of Crimes Levies.
She is now prohibited from owning any animals except for two cats and some free-range chickens, which will be subject to RSPCA SA inspections and cannot be caged.
Additional cats owned by her adult children are to be rehomed by 1 July 2027.
Her 25-year-old daughter and the woman’s live-in boyfriend had previously pleaded guilty and been sentenced.
RSPCA SA Chief Inspector Emma Shepley said the organisation was pleased to see the case resolved.
“This case serves as yet another reminder that animal ill-treatment will not be tolerated and that those who offend will be held accountable for their actions,” Ms Shepley said.
Members of the public who witness animal cruelty or neglect are urged to make an online report or call RSPCA’s cruelty report hotline on 1300 477 722.
