Goat cruelty “atrocious”

By Bridget Cook
POLICE are seeking witnesses to a heartless dumping of a goat in a serious condition on Thompsons Road on Saturday.
Inspector for Animal Cruelty Hotline Barrie Tapp said he reported the incident to Cranbourne police after a goat was dumped over the fence of a Thompsons Road property, between Clyde Road and Narre Warren Road about 4.15pm.
He said the man that brought the goat to Nigel’s Animal Rescue had seen a maroon Range Rover parked on the side of the road looking suspicious.
He said the man saw in his rear vision mirror someone get out of the car and throw something over the fence before driving off.
Mr Tapp said the witness drove back and found the goat and took it to Nigel’s Animal Rescue.
Mr Tapp said the goat was in a very bad condition.
“She couldn’t walk, couldn’t stand up or couldn’t eat,” he said.
“Sharon from Nigel’s spent the night rehydrating and resting the goat.
“I got a call today (Wednesday) to let me know that she is now thankfully in a terrific condition.”
Mr Tapp said this sort of thing happened all the time, but rarely with goats.
“Animal cruelty seems to be at its highest level since I have worked in the industry,” he said.
“We just deplore people who do this kind of thing.
“It’s atrocious and shouldn’t happen … there are plenty of animal rescue centres and animal welfare organisations that people can take their animals to if they don’t want them any more.”
Mr Tapp said anyone could report animal cruelty and remain anonymous by calling 1800 751 770.
Attempts by the News to contact police to confirm details were not successful.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Sergeant Gavin Buchan at Cranbourne Police Station on 5991 0600.