Latrobe City Council has received a number of enquiries in relation to a potential investigation of an animal welfare organisation with operations in the local area.
Council can confirm it is participating in an investigation relating to allegations of animal cruelty, which is being undertaken by the RSPCA as the agency responsible for managing and responding to cases of this nature.
Council takes allegations of animal cruelty seriously and will continue to provide the RSPCA with all relevant information to assist with the investigation as it progresses.
While this investigation is undertaken Council has paused an existing agreement with the organisation for the housing, care and rehoming of stray pets.
"RSPCA Victoria inspectors recently investigated this matter with local laws officers from Latrobe City Council. During this visit RSPCA Victoria Inspectors found insufficient evidence of Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (POCTAA) breaches.
Latrobe City Council is now reviewing compliance of current operation of the business with the Domestic Animals Act (DAA) based on the inspection, in its capacity as the relevant authority for monitoring and enforcing compliance and the welfare of animals under DAA and relevant Code of Practice requirements for running a Domestic Animal Business."