Augusta man Brett William Hadley fined after using duct tape and paracetamol to treat puppy’s broken leg

An Augusta man has been fined $3000 for failing to get treatment for his puppy after she fell from the back of his utility and broke a leg. Brett William Hadley, 44, was also banned from owning any animals except chickens for the next two years because of the seriousness of his neglect. The incident came to light after an RSPCA inspector went to Hadley’s Augusta home in May 2022 after a tip-off. An RSPCA spokesperson said nine-month-old dog Sheila had reportedly fallen from Hadley’s ute but no medical help was sought. “When the inspector saw Sheila, her left hind leg was wrapped in a bandage and silver duct tape, which were holding a homemade splint in place,” they said. “The inspector observed the leg appeared to be broken as it was sitting at an odd angle.” The dog was seized under the Animal Welfare Act 2002 and taken to a local veterinarian, who confirmed Sheila’s leg was broken and the homemade treatment had resulted in “open and infected wounds and swelling”. “The vet further noted that without appropriate treatment, it would have been likely the wounds would have become septic and the dog would have died within weeks,” the spokesperson said. In court on Monday, Hadley said he couldn’t afford the vet visit and instead gave his dog “a chance” to survive by feeding her paracetamol. Sheila has since recovered and been adopted. RSPCA Inspector Manager Kylie Green said the animal experienced unacceptable pain. “Not only from the broken leg, but also the wounds that had developed from the homemade splint job,” she said. “It is illegal to allow an animal to suffer. If you are struggling financially, speak to your vet about a payment plan, reach out to family and friends, or call a rescue group such as the RSPCA.” Incidents of suspected cruelty can be reported to 1300 278 358 or rspcawa.org.au.