RSPCA South Australia Rescues Over 100 Animals From a ‘House of Horrors’
In 2020, RSPCA South Australia received a tip about a property where dozens of animals were reportedly living in squalid conditions. Investigators rushed to the location, but nothing could have prepared them for what they found.
When rescuers stepped through the door, their hearts sank. Cages and crates containing frightened cats and dogs were stacked in unstable piles near the entryway, and every surface was covered in dust and debris. Puppies hid in cupboards and perched nervously on kitchen shelves, their wide eyes reflecting fear.
“Dirt extended up walls and over benchtops, and heavy cobwebs hung from the ceilings,” RSPCA South Australia wrote in a press release.
As investigators moved deeper into the property, the scene grew even more chaotic. In addition to cats and dogs, there were sheep, birds, and an astonishing 11 kangaroos crammed onto the back patio.
Despite the overwhelming situation, the team immediately got to work. That day, they rescued 80 animals, including 65 dogs, 11 cats and kittens, a magpie, and a possum. Each was rushed to receive veterinary care from experienced staff who were ready to begin the long process of rehabilitation.
Rescuers returned to the property in the days that followed and didn’t stop until every last animal had been saved, including the kangaroos. They were safely relocated to specialized facilities where they could recover and live more natural lives.
“Of the 111 animals seized from this property, we rehomed 90 and transferred 16 (mainly native animals and birds) to other rescue organisations,” RSPCA South Australia Chief Inspector Andrew Baker said.
The massive rescue effort required months of care and resources, as nearly every animal needed medical treatment — and many required significant rehabilitation. But for the RSPCA team, the outcome was worth every moment.
“This was an incredible outcome for these animals after their rescue from this house of horrors,” Baker said.
Because of the ongoing court case, RSPCA South Australia wasn’t able to share the full story publicly until 2024. Recently, the organization released a powerful video documenting the rescue and calling for continued support to help animals in similar situations.
Now, five years after their rescue, the dogs, cats, birds, and kangaroos are finally living the lives they deserve — happy, healthy, and loved — thanks to the tireless efforts of animal lovers who refused to look the other way.