Mayor Kerr supports amendments to Animal Protection Act

Pets rights on the table with harsher penalties

Rowan Anderson

Journalist

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Puppy mill is raided with shocking scenes found. Image: RSPCA supplied

Animal abusers are to be punished more harshly with incoming amendments to animal protection legislation and Mayor Michael Kerr is throwing his full support behind this.

RSPCA Queensland has welcomed changes to the Animal Care and Protection Act 2001 that will improve animal welfare, after submissions from the public closed earlier this week.

Last year our state’s peak animal protection body made sixteen recommendations for change, many of which have already been adopted or partially adopted. 

Cat found in soiled conditions. Image: RSPCA supplied

These changes include maximum penalties increased for serious breach of Duty of Care offences regarding large scale animal suffering and aggravated offending along with maximum penalties, increasing imprisonment terms for dogfighting and cockfighting offences and the banning of various devices that cause animals’ harm.

Advocate for animal welfare

As President of the Homeless Animal Society and Boarding Kennels who operate the Paws and Claws Port Douglas Rescue Centre, it comes as no surprise that Mayor Michael Kerr is an advocate for animal welfare.

He spoke to Newsport about his experiences of the animal welfare issues he sees on a regular basis.

“Only a matter of weeks ago a dog was found extremely emaciated wandering the streets,” he told Newsport. "The animal had large tumours in its stomach and liver and was simply starving to death with no care from the owner. If you can’t afford medical treatment for an animal, you shouldn’t have one."

Mr Kerr also was clear with what should happen to owners who do not maintain welfare of their furry loved ones.

“Cruel acts should also cover lack of veterinary care, when an animal is sick or injured not getting treatment is as bad as violence both causing intentional pain to the animal, again allowing seizure and appropriate fines.”

Budget restrictions impact safety and welfare of pets

Mr Kerr also commented on how budget limits the ability to protect abused animals.

“Whilst the staff involved in this area always do their absolute best they struggle with limited budgets and laws that often put the owners’ rights before the animal’s welfare.

“We currently have one RSPCA inspector who covers from south of Cairns up to the Cape and are often limited in what they can attend. Council bylaws officers regularly step in to assist but only have limited powers when it comes to dealing with the welfare of animals on private property.

“In many cases even the RSPCA is limited in its ability to act swiftly for the animals benefit if the owner appears to be complying and are given the opportunity to do the right thing.

“I hope that in the review that further powers are given to both RSPCA and ByLaws officers.”

“Unless funding is increased so these matters can be monitored, investigated and prosecuted appropriately nothing will ever change in the area.”

RSPCA stands for stronger animal welfare

The CEO of RSPCA Queensland, Darren Maier, also commented on his hopes for this review period.

“The Animal Care and Protection Act is a good Act, but there is room to improve.

“We welcome the amendments proposed so far but ask the government to further expand this to protect animals in line with community expectations.

“RSPCA Queensland is always continuing discussions with the government in regard to the Animal Care and Protection Regulations which will cover other animal welfare topics.”

Cat found in trap Image: RSPCA supplied

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