RSPCA Victoria is calling for an end to verbal and physical abuse against its Inspectors as they do one of the toughest jobs, investigating animal cruelty across the state.
In addition to the verbal abuse faced on a daily basis, RSPCA Victoria Inspectors have been charged at, and in one case had a vehicle lifted by a forklift preventing them from leaving a dangerous situation.
Speaking about their safety RSPCA Victoria CEO Dr Liz Walker said the abuse they face in the line of duty is unacceptable.
"Our Inspectors are authorised officers and are on the frontline investigating animal cruelty offences across the state, the last thing they need, when trying to help animals who are suffering, is to be abused in the process," Dr Walker said.
"It's already tough enough investigating severely neglected, injured or abused animals and this often involves attending properties riddled with animal faeces, unsafe ammonia levels due to animal urine, pests, vermin, and often crowded with mountains of rubbish sometimes as tall as they are.
"We understand it can be distressing to have an animal cruelty report investigated; however, our Inspectors focus is always on the wellbeing of the animals and, in the majority of cases, helping animal owners meet their pet's needs.
"Our top priority is ensuring our frontline Inspectors investigating animal cruelty reports are kept safe and ensuring the state's most vulnerable animals get the help they need."
