A shocking case of alleged animal cruelty has reignited calls for urgent reform to Australia’s pet ownership laws.
NSW Animal Justice Party MLC Emma Hurst is demanding tighter regulations to stop companion animals from ending up in the wrong hands.
The push comes after Cooper Anthony Owen was charged with violently attacking a nine-week-old Staffy cross Bull Arab puppy and dumping its body in bushland.
Police allege the 21-year-old removed the puppy from a vehicle in a car park on Maitland Road, in Sandgate in Newcastle, on the afternoon of July 20.
Witnesses told police he slammed the puppy against the car multiple times before throwing it to the ground and continuing the assault.
He reportedly then returned the injured animal to the car and drove away. The puppy’s body was later discovered on Porowei Way at Kooragang.
Owen was arrested at his home later that night where police seized several items including a car seat cover, clothing, and a mobile phone.
A veterinary examination is underway to determine the puppy’s exact cause of death.
Cooper Anthony Owen (pictured) has been charged with violently attacking a puppy near Newcastle. The dog’s body was later found on the side of the road
NSW Animal Justice Party MP Emma Hurst (pictured) is demanding tighter regulations to stop companion animals from ending up in the wrong hands
The allegations have sparked public outrage and led to renewed scrutiny of how easily animals can be obtained from breeders, pet shops and online platforms.
‘This is a deeply heartbreaking case of animal cruelty,’ Ms Hurst told Daily Mail.
‘There is an ongoing issue that it is far too easy to obtain animals, whether through breeders, pet shops or even ‘free to good home’ ads online. We’ve heard too many horrific stories of what has happened to animals in these situations.’
Hurst has called for a licensing system to ensure only responsible individuals are allowed to own companion animals.
She argues this will prevent animals from being placed in environments where they are neglected, mistreated or abused.
‘We absolutely want families to be able to experience the joy and companionship that comes with having an animal. But the sad truth is not all animals are ending up in safe and loving homes,’ Hurst said.
‘Most rescue organisations assess people and their homes before adopting out an animal. And that’s for good reason.
‘It ensures the animal is suited to the person and that the person is capable of providing the right care. Platforms that allow animals to be sold with no checks or due diligence must be addressed.’
The push comes after Cooper Anthony Owen was charged with violently attacking a nine-week-old Staffy cross Bull Arab puppy and dumping its body in bushland (stock image)
Cooper Owen’s (pictured) lawyer has sought an application under the Mental Health Act
In NSW parliamentary inquiries, animal welfare groups have previously proposed a licensing system for companion animals.
Hurst argues that such a system could flag individuals with a history of harming animals or those deemed incapable of providing adequate care.
Owen, is yet to enter a plea with his lawyer requesting an adjournment to prepare an application under the Mental Health (Forensic Provisions) Act.
If successful, the 21-year-old could avoid traditional criminal prosecution and instead enter a treatment or support plan.
Magistrate Ronald Maiden has made an interim order disqualifying Owen from owning or possessing any animals while the matter remains before the court.
He is on bail and will reappear in Raymond Terrace Local Court in September.
