Lorraine Harris: Geraldton woman fined $10K, banned from owning pets after dogs left without food or water

A 35-year-old Geraldton woman has been fined $10,000 and banned from owning animals for three years after leaving two dogs confined in her Beachlands home without food or water for several weeks. In May 2024, RSPCA WA received a cruelty report about the dogs, who were believed to have been abandoned. A City of Greater Geraldton ranger found a Bull Arab puppy and adult boxer — both named Princess — trapped inside the home in filthy conditions, with no access to food or water. The ranger poured several bottles of water through the flyscreen door, which the dogs drank desperately. An RSPCA inspector located the dogs’ owner in Perth, Lorraine Anjela Coleen Harris, who said she hadn’t been at the property since April and believed a relative was caring for the animals. Despite being ordered to resume care for the dogs immediately, she failed to do so. RSPCA WA inspectors later seized the animals under warrant. Both dogs were found to be underweight, dehydrated, and suffering from infections due to the extremely dirty environment. They are now recovering in foster care after receiving medical treatment by the RSPCA in Perth. Harris was convicted under the Animal Welfare Act 2002 for cruelty and failure to comply with two written direction notices. She was also ordered to pay $5,407 in costs and reimbursements. In sentencing, Magistrate Evan Shackleton said: “Both animals were vulnerable, they were unable to leave the indoors and therefore unable to find things to eat and drink for themselves.” RSPCA WA inspector manager Kylie Green said pet owners have a clear duty of care. “Pets are completely dependent on us to meet their needs,” she said. “Presuming someone else is caring for them is never enough.” The maximum penalty for animal cruelty in WA is a $50,000 fine and five years imprisonment. Suspected cruelty can be reported to the RSPCA 24/7 on 1300 278 358 or at rspcawa.org.au.