RSPCA WA will be in Ellenbrook on Tuesday, September 16 offering free advice and supplies to pet owners who may be struggling with the costs of caring for their pets.

The Community Action Day will take place at Coolamon Oval, Bonney Lane, Ellenbrook from 1pm to 3pm.

RSPCA WA staff and volunteers will be on hand to perform health checks and microchipping for dogs, give out flea and worming treatments for cats and dogs, hand out free cat and dog food and offering dog training tips.

RSPCA WA chief operating officer Hannah Dreaver said more pet owners were asking for help as cost-of living pressures increased.

“The City of Swan is consistently the local government area with the highest number of animal cruelty reports each year,” she said.

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

“When you look at the problems our staff deal with there are definitely patterns - untreated skin conditions, often caused by fleas, that have become chronic; underweight animals; strays with no microchip to identify their owner; and animals surrendered because they’ve become too much of a handful.

“We can address all of these issues at days like this one.

“We want to keep much-loved pets together with their owners wherever possible. If you could benefit from a little help with your animals, please come along and take advantage of this free support.”

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

If your puppy has not had all its vaccinations yet, you will need to carry the puppy at all times.

Due to welfare concerns, cats are not able to attend but cat owners are encouraged to attend for free supplies and advice.

RSPCA WA inspectors, an RSPCA WA dog behaviourist, and City of Swan rangers will be on hand to answer welfare-related, training and registration questions.

Health checks will be conducted by vet staff and students from South Metropolitan TAFE.

RSPCA WA thanks the City of Swan, South Metropolitan TAFE, Petbarn, Vets Beyond Borders, and volunteers for their support.

Pet owners who would like to attend are asked to register at www.rspcawa.org.au/Event/community-ac
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