Published on stuff.co.nz
https://www.stuff.co.nz/auckland/98768038/man-banned-from-owning-animals-over-cruelty-to-his-dog
A pet dog had to endure “absolutely horrific” injuries for a week because its owner didn’t seek help.
Langi Vole, 20, pleaded guilty in the Manukau District Court to one charge of ill-treatment of an animal.
In April last year, Vole’s brown and white Staffordshire cross dog Lemuska was hit by a car and sustained “severe” leg injuries.
Graphic photographs shown in court revealed the extent of the dog’s injuries.
An SPCA animal inspector found the crippled dog at an address in Māngere in south Auckland with open de-gloving wounds on both his lower hind legs.
Lemuska’s wounds were red, had exposed bone, and had debris in them, the SPCA said.
A vet treating Lemuska said his left hind foot was fractured and irreparable – the vet concluded Lemuska suffered “moderate to extreme pain and distress” waiting for treatment.
Vole admitted he didn’t seek treatment for Lemuska.
The extent of the dog’s injuries meant he had to be put down.
“To leave a dog in such pain and unable to move or walk is unthinkable.
“Lemuska was suffering severe and very visible injuries and should have seen a veterinarian immediately after the accident.
“Our pets are completely dependent on their owners for food, shelter, companionship, and treatment if they get injured or fall ill.
“If you own an animal, it is your responsibility to provide these fundamental things.”
Vole was sentenced to 150 hours community work, and ordered to pay reparations to the SPCA of $197.31 and court costs of $60.
The SPCA wanted Vole banned from keeping animals for 10 years, but the court disqualified him from keeping animals for 2 years.
The judge took into account Vole’s early guilty plea, lack of previous convictions and youth.