The officers seized several dogs from the property, including Nuggi, who had difficulty walking because of his weight. Nuggi weighed an astonishing 53.7kg, so heavy that his heartbeat couldn't be heard with a stethoscope. The dog also suffered from eye infections, overgrown nails, skin tags, and struggled to move and breathe. His legs were collapsing under his body weight, causing him to stop several times while walking short distances to catch his breath.
SPCA Chief Executive Todd Westwood described Nuggi as "one of the most obese animals" they had ever seen. He expressed sadness over the situation, comparing it to the distress of seeing animals that are underweight, starved, or malnourished.
A vet determined that Nuggi likely experienced "severe long-term discomfort and stress" due to his obesity. While under SPCA care, Nuggi lost 8.9kg but unfortunately died suddenly from an acute hemorrhage caused by a ruptured mass in his liver. An autopsy also revealed that Nuggi had liver disease and Cushing's disease.
The woman admitted to feeding Nuggi eight to ten pieces of chicken daily, along with dog biscuits. She claimed to have exercised Nuggi by walking him or allowing him to spend time outside.
Mr. Westwood criticized the woman's actions as "unacceptable," emphasizing that responsible pet ownership includes providing a balanced diet and ensuring regular exercise. The woman's neglect resulted in Nuggi becoming dangerously overweight, harming his health and well-being.
The woman was sentenced to two months in jail, ordered to pay reparations, and banned from owning dogs for 12 months.
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