Extreme cases of owners killing unwanted pets by drowning, or using a vehicle's exhaust fumes, have prompted a plea from SPCA Otago.
Despite a spate of recent animal cruelty cases in Dunedin, the total number of serious offences remained similar to previous years, SPCA Otago chief inspector Virginia Pine said.
However, staff had noticed an increase in calls and visits from people who could not afford to have their pets desexed.
This resulted in unwanted litters of puppies and kittens that owners could not afford to feed or provide with basic health care.
''In some instances owners may resort to killing the kittens or puppies as a last resort, often inhumanely by drowning or putting on the exhaust of a vehicle.
''It would appear that many people in our community are misinformed that drowning is humane; it is certainly not.''
Drowning an animal was an offence under the Animal Welfare Act 1999.
These cases could have been avoided if the cat or dog had been desexed, she said.
Dunedin hit the headlines in May when at least six domesticated cats were found dead, including three hanging from trees at Navy Park in South Dunedin.
Last month a pet lamb was stolen and later dumped with a smashed head and set on fire outside its home in Corstorphine.
Police are also investigating after a cat was hit over the head and killed in South Dunedin late last month.
Ms Pine said all complaints made to SPCA Otago were investigated and if there were valid animal welfare issues, matters were discussed with the owners or persons in charge of the animals.
However if there was no compliance or the offending was at the greater end of the scale, ''prosecution is always considered''.
Pet owners should also be reminded they were the only ones who ''ultimately control what happens to their pets and should always ensure that the welfare of their pet is not compromised''.
''Unfortunately, in most cases owners are unable to watch their pets 24/7 and it would appear as with any community there are some out there who take advantage of this.''
A person found guilty of the wilful ill-treatment of an animal could face five years' imprisonment or a fine not exceeding $100,000, or both.
''Animal welfare does matter and we need to meet the needs of our animals and avoid causing unreasonable or unnecessary harm through our activities. Failure to do so may result in prosecution.''
''My message to the public is if you cannot afford to feed, vaccinate, microchip, worm, desex and love a pet do not take it on. A pet is a huge commitment.''
Free desexing
SPCA Otago, which promotes responsible pet ownership and is available for advice, will be hosting a free mobile desexing unit in December, for use by pet owners who have community service cards or gold cards.
