RSPCA offer free food and health checks in Balga in bid to improve animal care amid cost-of-living pressures

Free pet food, health checks and training tips will be on offer at a local community action day, attempting to improve animal care and help ease cost-of-living pressures.

RSPCA WA is hosting a pop up clinic in Balga where staff and volunteers will perform microchipping for dogs, give out flea and worming treatments, and provide free cat and dog food.

RSPCA WA executive manager animal and enforcement operations Hannah Dreaver said West Australian pet owners are asking for help.

“We know some pet owners are struggling with the cost of living and the cost of caring for their animals,” she told The West Australian.

“Whether they need some help with a bag of food or a vet check-up, this outreach program exists to address any potential welfare concerns before they become bigger problems.

“We are proud to offer this service out in the communities that need it most and I strongly encourage people to come down if they need that assistance.”

The event will run on June 12 from 1pm to 3pm at Princess Wallington Reserve, Princess Road, Balga.

The community action day is located in Stirling which had 399 reports of animal cruelty in the 2023-2024 financial year, putting it in third spot for local government areas with the highest animal cruelty reports.

“This demonstrates a real need for assistance in the area,” Ms Dreaver said.

“It’s hoped this support will ease some pressure on family budgets and help stop small health problems for pets from becoming big and expensive ones.”

The clinic is also a great opportunity to ask for advice on behaviour concerns.

People are welcome to bring social, vaccinated dogs and puppies along to the event on leash.

Another community action day will be held in Clarkson on Wednesday June 18th at Anthony Waring Clubrooms, on Victorsen Parade, Clarkson from 1.00pm to 3.00pm.