RSPCA Victoria’s annual Animal Cruelty Report has shown a fall in animal seizures and surrenders in the Kingston Local Government Area during the last financial year.
While data from 2024/25 had animals seized or surrendered at 21, data from the 2025/26 financial year shows 15 animals seized or surrendered.
In terms of the number of reports of animal cruelty in the 12 months, Kingston had 145, making it the 21st highest LGA for animal cruelty reports out of 79 in the state.
Neighbouring Frankston LGA fared much worse with 41 animals seized or surrendered, up from 30 the previous year.
RSPCA Victoria Chief Inspector Michelle Green said this year’s data showed conditions are not improving for Victoria’s animals.
“Despite the number of cruelty reports reducing, we’ve seen a nearly 19% increase in the number of animals seized by or surrendered to our Inspectorate, including an 80% increase in the number of reports related to hoarding compared to two years ago,” said Green.
“Many of Victoria’s pet owners are facing financial hardship and mental health challenges, as well as drought in some areas, and this has directly affected their pets.
“Our inspectors are spending more time working with rural animal owners, especially horse owners, with a more than 10% increase in horses seized or surrendered this year including a significant number of thoroughbreds.”
Anyone with concerns about the welfare of animals is urged to make a report to RSPCA Victoria at rspcavic.org/who-to-call or by calling 03 9224 2222.
First published in the Chelsea Mordialloc Mentone News – 5 August 2026
