The founders and owners of the South Australian Humane Animal Rescue Association (SAHARA), originally SA Dog Rescue, were convicted of criminal animal neglect on Monday.

The properties involved were in Black Springs and Morgan.

In 2019, the Black Springs and Morgan properties were inspected and found to house 450 cats and dogs, 130 horses, plus pigs, sheep and goats.

The prosecution described the animals housing as "revolting".

There were originally 30 charges laid to the owners of the rescue, but this was downgraded to 6 charges, and they were fined $6,500. 

SAHARA continues to operate and continues to ask for donations for the animals in their care and to cover legal costs.

The owners of SAHARA are now convicted criminals and animals still remain on their property. These images were taken on 20 September, 2022.

Why isn't SAHARA forced to close?

The Statutes Amendment (Animal Welfare Reforms) Bill was created to make homeless pets safe, regardless of what organisation was caring for them. This includes rescue organisations.

Rescue requirements in the Bill include:
. licence required from the Minister
. suitability depends on offences committed
. suitability depends on the applicants premise and facilities
. can be subject to conditions such as capacity limits
. Minister can suspend a licence
. compliance with the Code of Practice
. annual reports of incoming, outgoing, RTO, adopted, euthanised and in care to be made to the Minister 

The Statutes Amendment (Animal Welfare Reforms) Bill, otherwise known as Lucys Law, is currently being finalised in Parliamentary Counsel. 

Please sign this petition to show your support for closing the SAHARA animal rescue organisation.

Thank you.
The PAW Project