Currently, the maximum penalty for animal cruelty is three years imprisonment or a $266,900 fine.
However right now, dog fighters only face a maximum of one year in prison or a $40,035 fine! This is not enough of a deterrent or punishment for such deliberate and disgusting acts of animal cruelty.
The secretive nature of these prohibited events, means that the RSPCA faces enormous difficulty in obtaining evidence of involvement in dog fighting. This directly hinders their ability to prosecute offenders because of the need to catch them in the act. An impossible task.
You may also be interested to learn that a charity foots the bill for these irresponsible dog owners until court proceedings finalise, which can be months to years. Seized dogs are cared for, rehabilitated and receive veterinary treatment all paid for by RSPCA, while their owner focuses on their court case.
Donate now so we can continue to investigate and stop this cruelty.
The owner should have to contribute to the ongoing care costs for these poor dogs from the time they are seized.