Animal neglect spikes in Kimberley as cost-of-living pressures mount

Animal welfare officials have recorded a 23 percent increase in cruelty incidents in the Kimberley during the most recent financial year, attributing the rise to economic hardship among pet owners. RSPCA WA spokesperson Louise Rowe described numerous cases of emaciated animals and untreated skin conditions linked to insufficient feeding and lack of parasite control. To combat the trend, the organization is offering free health checks, microchipping, food and flea-worm treatments during community days in Broome and Derby.

Rowe stressed that residents must act as the charity's "eyes and ears" and report concerns despite the difficult circumstances. Meanwhile, local rescue group Saving Animals From Euthanasia (SAFE) Broome faces a growing intake of abandoned and surrendered pets, with limited foster capacity. The RSPCA provided a dedicated hotline for reporting abuse.