Gold Coast hinterland pet owners concerned about spate of animal deaths with mutilation

The grisly mutilation of a number of animals has sparked fear among pet owners in a small Gold Coast hinterland town.

Police say just one case appears to be suspicious, but are aware of more complaints.

THE grisly mutilation of a number of animals has sparked fear among pet owners in a small Gold Coast hinterland town.

In less than two months an owl has been decapitated, three dogs and a horse mutilated and kangaroos found in a drain outside a property.

A dead cat was also found inside a car trailer. It is unknown any of the animals died.

One of the dogs was found mutilated this morning and taken to a local vet, where it was euthanised.

The properties where the bodies were found include Wonglepong, Tamborine Mountain and Boyland.

Canungra police say they are aware of some of the reports, however believed at this point in time, just one death appeared to be suspicious.

It is understood a dead cat was found in a car trailer and that the body could have been purposely placed there.

Sergeant Craig Roberts of Canungra said the deaths surrounding the other animals were undetermined, but they could have been struck by cars or been the victims of wild dogs.

“Be aware of where your animals are, they should be in fenced yards as per council laws,” he said.

However, several concerned residents have told the Gold Coast Bulletin they were scared their own pets would be targeted next.

One resident, who declined to be named, said police had doorknocked some locals in Wonglepong to tell them to be vigilant.

“Everyone’s concerned, a man has even offered to take in people’s pets while they are away at work,” she said.

“A lot of people are saying, what if it’s a human next?”

Canungra police said anyone who had any information on suspects regarding the alleged cruelty were urged to come forward.

The RSPCA had been notified in at least one case, but said they were leaving the investigation up to police. They were not aware of any killing pattern.