Attempted dog drowning
Mandurah, WA (AU)

Incident Date: Monday, Mar 22, 2010

Disposition: Convicted

Defendant/Suspect: Christopher Andrew Armstrong

A COODANUP man pleaded guilty to dunking his dog for about 10 seconds five times at a beach when he appeared in Mandurah Magistrates Court yesterday.

The court was told the man had been feeling suicidal at the time and was worried about what would happen to the dog if he died.

Christopher Andrew Armstrong (44) pleaded guilty to the ill-treatment of an animal contrary to the Animal Welfare Act.

RSPCA prosecutor Keith Ginbey said Armstrong took the terrier cross, known as Mr Bumpy, to a beach in Silver Sands on March 22 and submerged the dog underwater five times. The dog was on the lead at all times and was unable to get away.

Mr Ginbey said Armstrong took the dog back onto the beach and while the dog was lying on the sand Armstrong seemed to be attempting to revive him.

They then walked off and the dog seemed to have difficulty walking.

Two witnesses at a nearby resort called police.

The dog was taken to the vet and was found to have inhaled water.

Mr Ginbey asked for Armstrong to be prohibited from owning a dog for 10 years and for the forfeiture of Mr Bumpy.

The duty lawyer said Armstrong, who was on a disability pension, had been depressed because another pet had died.

However, she said Armstrong told her he did not have any mental health issues.

The case was adjourned until November 19 and a pre-sentence report was ordered.

Armstrong also pleaded not guilty to obscene acts in public and a trial was set for a later date.

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