By Derek Schlennstedt
At a time when bushfires are raging across the country and a predicted billion animals have been killed, the news that a kangaroo has been shot with an arrow in Lysterfield and then left for dead can only be described as a disgusting, upsetting and an utterly egregious act of animal cruelty.
The roo, which has been named Frank, was shot in Lysterfield Park in south-east Melbourne, Five Freedoms Animal Rescue said on Facebook on January 12.
“(It is) a place where kangaroos are meant to be safe and protected,” the organisation wrote.
“But there is no such thing when it comes to human behaviour.
“Even the worst fires in Victoria’s history didn’t distract this cruel person from attacking an animal for fun.
There can be no justification.”
Frank was captured and taken to Woofpurnay Veterinary Hospital where the arrow was removed and he was treated for his injuries.
It is understood that the arrow penetrated the kangaroo’s leg and its tip caused serious injury to the kangaroo’s neck.
As a result the kangaroo was then taken to the Five Freedom’s shelter where he was placed into an enclosure and will be rehabilitated if possible.
“It is always upsetting to witness such disgusting and unnecessary acts of cruelty, but it is even worse at this time as we are desperately preparing for an influx of fire victims,” the organisation said.
“Some sick and cruel bastard has added to the pain.”
“Unfortunately, our animals continue to suffer in many ways and not just from the fires, and our work continues, and this beautiful big boy needs our help.”
The group also called for the banning of Archery equipment.
“They are weapons, and people can’t be trusted.
“How many times have we seen such a despicable act involving the illegal shooting of a kangaroo with arrows?”
