Family's pet dogs both die after threatening letters received over barking
A Queensland family are devastated after both of their pets died shortly after they received several “abusive and threatening” letters in the mail.
Jack russell terriers Jackie and Lucky died on the weekend at their home on Wheeler Drive in Glenella, near Mackay in Queensland.
In the days beforehand, their family received two hand delivered letters about barking noise coming from the home.
Queensland police said between 5pm and 8.40pm on Saturday, the dog owners returned home from an outing to find Jackie in an “agitated state”.
She died 15 minutes later and Lucky was found dead the next day in the yard.
Authorities seized the animals to conduct autopsies and determine the cause of their deaths.
Security footage released by police has shown a person delivering a document into a letter box at the address.
The public have been asked to come forward if they recognise the individual or have any further information.
Under the Animal Care and Protection Act 2001, a deliberate act of cruelty carries a maximum of three years’ imprisonment or a $252,300 fine.
It is also an offence to administer, or feed, a harmful substance, with the intention of killing an animal.
The maximum penalty for an individual convicted of these offences is $37,845 or one-year imprisonment.
Investigations are ongoing with the assistance of the RSPCA.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink on 131 444 or provide information using the online form 24hrs per day.
You can report information about crime anonymously to Crime Stoppers, a registered charity and community volunteer organisation, by calling 1800 333 000 or via crimestoppersqld.com.au 24hrs per day.
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