A successful prosecution following an animal cruelty court case was reported in the Taranaki Herald on 13 November 1909. A national law against cruelty to animals was first passed in 1878 and further legislation was introduced in 1884. Not supplying an animal with food, water and shelter became an offence, and Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals inspectors could be appointed as special constables with powers to inspect animals, take them into custody, and arrest offenders. This feature of New Zealand law was a first in the British Empire.
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National Library of New Zealand, Papers Past
Reference:
Taranaki Herald, 13 November 1909, p. 4
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