Dog groomer faces $7500 fine after shocking treatment to customer’s pet
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Furry friends are often part of the family, as they provide joy and emotional support for their owners.
Despite this, instances of animal mistreatment are still prevalent—with some still happening in spaces where owners entrust their pets.
An incident caught on camera shocked and appalled pet owners across Australia, leading to a hefty fine and conversations about pet care services.
A suburban pet groomer slapped and threw a Maltese x Shih Tzu dog during a routine grooming session.
The footage showed the dog named Luffy barking and struggling as the groomer attempted to wash and shave him.
The situation escalated when the groomer took Luffy into another room and threw him.
As the owner picked Luffy up, he was visibly distressed and had blood around his eye.
A subsequent veterinary examination confirmed the injuries, which were then reported to the animal advocacy group Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) Western Australia.
The organisation, dedicated to preventing animal cruelty, described the groomer's actions as 'a breach of trust' and promptly took the matter to court.
The court's proceedings led to the conviction of the groomer under the state's Animal Welfare Act 2002 for cruelty and causing unnecessary harm to Luffy.
RSPCA Inspector Manager Kylie Green pointed out that Luffy was ‘terrified’.
She also emphasised the pet owners’ rights to expect groomers to act professionally and with kindness, among other things.
‘Trained groomers should always use the correct equipment and approved grooming techniques to keep themselves and the dog safe,’ she said.
‘A groomer of the offender’s experience should know how to stop a difficult appointment. There is no excuse to lash out and hurt a defenceless animal.’
While the maximum penalty for animal cruelty in Western Australia can reach $50,000 and a five-year prison sentence, the groomer was given a spent conviction.
The fines cost around $2,500 and an additional $5,000—totalling $7500. The groomer was also dismissed from her workplace.
This case reminds pet owners of the importance of vetting pet care services and advocating for the humane treatment of animals.
Pet owners should research and select reputable groomers who are transparent about their practices and have a positive track record with animal welfare.
If you witness any form of animal cruelty in your neighbourhood, immediately report them to the RSPCA here or contact local authorities.
How do you ensure your pet’s safety when visiting the groomers? Share your experiences and go-to pet shops in the comments section below.
Despite this, instances of animal mistreatment are still prevalent—with some still happening in spaces where owners entrust their pets.
An incident caught on camera shocked and appalled pet owners across Australia, leading to a hefty fine and conversations about pet care services.
A suburban pet groomer slapped and threw a Maltese x Shih Tzu dog during a routine grooming session.
The footage showed the dog named Luffy barking and struggling as the groomer attempted to wash and shave him.
The situation escalated when the groomer took Luffy into another room and threw him.
The pet groomer struggled to groom Luffy, leading her to harm the dog physically. Image Credit: RSPCA Western Australia
As the owner picked Luffy up, he was visibly distressed and had blood around his eye.
A subsequent veterinary examination confirmed the injuries, which were then reported to the animal advocacy group Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) Western Australia.
The organisation, dedicated to preventing animal cruelty, described the groomer's actions as 'a breach of trust' and promptly took the matter to court.
The court's proceedings led to the conviction of the groomer under the state's Animal Welfare Act 2002 for cruelty and causing unnecessary harm to Luffy.
RSPCA Inspector Manager Kylie Green pointed out that Luffy was ‘terrified’.
She also emphasised the pet owners’ rights to expect groomers to act professionally and with kindness, among other things.
‘Trained groomers should always use the correct equipment and approved grooming techniques to keep themselves and the dog safe,’ she said.
‘A groomer of the offender’s experience should know how to stop a difficult appointment. There is no excuse to lash out and hurt a defenceless animal.’
While the maximum penalty for animal cruelty in Western Australia can reach $50,000 and a five-year prison sentence, the groomer was given a spent conviction.
The fines cost around $2,500 and an additional $5,000—totalling $7500. The groomer was also dismissed from her workplace.
This case reminds pet owners of the importance of vetting pet care services and advocating for the humane treatment of animals.
Pet owners should research and select reputable groomers who are transparent about their practices and have a positive track record with animal welfare.
If you witness any form of animal cruelty in your neighbourhood, immediately report them to the RSPCA here or contact local authorities.
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