Dog's ribs visible after neglect

A Willagee woman who neglected her dog so badly its ribs were visible has been banned from owning an animal for 10 years.

32-year-old Rebecca James was found guilty of failing to take steps to alleviate harm to her female French Mastiff Jazz and failing to comply with a Direction Notice issued by an RSPCA inspector.

Jazz first came to the attention of the RSPCA in 2012 when an inspector visited Ms James’ property and found the dog in poor body condition with widespread fur loss along her spine and weeping eyes.

The inspector issued a direction notice instructing Ms James to take Jazz to the vet.

Weeks later, the dog was picked up by a ranger who alerted the RSPCA as they had noted that Jazz’s spine, ribs and hip bones were clearly visible, and that she was suffering from fur loss and discharge oozing from both her eyes.

An RSPCA inspector seized the dog and sought immediate veterinary treatment.

The veterinary report found the dog had not been provided with sufficient nutrition, leading to muscle wastage, and that she had suffered harm due to various medical conditions being left untreated.

Chief Inspector Amanda Swift said the RSPCA was satisfied with the successful prosecution against Ms James.

“In the majority of situations, RSPCA inspectors try working with and educating owners on their responsibilities, but in this case the owner was aware that the dog was suffering, had been given the opportunity to rectify the situation but had continued to ignore the problem and now has been convicted of animal cruelty," she said

"We are pleased that Ms James has been banned from owning any animals for a 10 year period,” Ms Swift said.

Ms James was also ordered to pay more than $2000 in costs.

Jazz’s spine, ribs and hip bones were clearly visible. Picture: RSPCA