Pup on mend after scissor torture

The SPCA says the pup is recovering and will likely be rehomed. Photo / Alan Gibson

An 8-week-old pup had his ears cut off with scissors in what the Tauranga SPCA says is one of the worst animal cruelty cases it has seen.

The pit bull terrier cross pup, now recovering at the SPCA, had followed a group of children to a takeaway shop in Gate Pa on Saturday morning.

Inspector Jason Blair said the pup's raw and bloody ear wounds appeared to have been inflicted up to 48 hours earlier when he was brought in by a member of the public at midday.

"It's quite a clean cut. I'm only speculating but it looks like it was done with large scissors," Mr Blair.

Despite his horrific ordeal, the bright-eyed pup is brimming with energy and recovering well.

"He's very active, very happy and has a decent bark," said Mr Blair.

The sociable pup showed no signs of distress so it was likely he would be rehomed.

The SPCA is offering a reward for anyone who comes forward with information.

Under new amendments to the Animal Welfare Act made earlier this year, the perpetrator could face up to five years imprisonment or a $100,000 fine.

Previously the maximum fine was two years in jail or a $50,000 fine.

Tauranga MP Simon Bridges spearheaded the amendment after a spate of cruelty cases, including a dog beaten with a metal pole and two goats dragged behind a car sparked a huge public outcry.

"I believe the law change will mean higher penalties and hopefully over time we will see less cruelty toward animals," said Mr Bridges.

He hopes the amendment will ensure the penalties imposed are more significant.

The amendment also doubles the penalties for owners who harm their pets through neglecting their physical, health and behavioural needs in what is classed as reckless ill-treatment.

Mr Bridges said this was an issue that New Zealanders felt strongly about and he had been overwhelmed with support from the public.

Contact the Tauranga SPCA with any information on 07 578 0245.