RSPCA warns about owning poodles, Maltese-crosses, Bichon Frise and Cavalier spaniels dog breeds
I’m an RSPCA vet and these are the four dog breeds to avoid if you don’t have time to groom them regularly
- RSPCA warns about dog breeds
- Furry canines need careful grooming
- Grass seeds are also a threat to hairy dogs
The RSPCA has issued a warning to owners of four popular dog breeds who could face hefty fines if they fail to properly care for their animals.
The Western Australian branch of the animal welfare agency released footage on Wednesday showing Lucas the Maltese dog, who was admitted last month with a badly matted coat riddled with grass seeds.
Vets were forced to remove 700 grams of the tangled hair, which took more than an hour.
RSPCA manager Kylie Green said there had been a number of similar cases of neglected dogs.
Varieties that especially need to be regularly washed, cut and cared for poodle and poodle crosses, Maltese crosses and the Bichon Frize, but also long-haired breeds such as the Cavalier Spaniel.
Lucas, a Maltese mix, was taken in by Western Australia’s RSPCA last month with severely matted fur
“We’re seeing more dogs with horribly overgrown coats that indicate many months of no grooming,” she said Now Perth.
“RSPCA WA currently has two Maltese crosses, two Lhasa Apsos and an elderly toy poodle in shelter who were in such a bad condition that we are considering prosecuting their owners for animal cruelty.
‘It’s not just about looks – when a dog’s coat gets long and matted it can lead to discomfort, pain, restriction of movement and eye, ear or skin infections.
“All dogs need to be bathed and cared for, and ignoring these needs in a breed that gets a lot of attention can quickly become a welfare issue.”
Ms Green said grooming is that a cost and time commitment that owners should consider before getting one of these breeds.
Lucas had about 700 grams of tangled fur removed by RSPCA vets in an hour-long procedure
Long-haired dogs like Cavalier King Charles Spaniels need constant grooming to keep their coat under control
“If you’re struggling to care for your animal, reach out to friends, family or a rescue group like RSPCA WA before things get out of hand,” she said.
“Please don’t let your pet suffer.”
Four-year-old Lucas remains in the care of the RSPCA but will be listed on adoptapet.com.au when he is ready for a new home.
Animal abuse through neglect can be fined up to $50,000 or up to five years in prison in Western Australia.