- Two beloved family dogs were allegedly poisoned on Sunday night in Sunbury
- They were rushed to the veterinary hospital but Border Collie Rua died en route
- Belgian Shepherd Chance, two, was still clinging to life on Tuesday afternoon
- Police also found six white pills in the house’s backyard where the dogs lived
- CCTV footage of a woman loitering in the area around 11pm has been released
An investigation has been launched into a suspected dog-baiting incident in north-west Melbourne that killed one beloved family pet and left another fighting for his life.
Hume Crime Investigation detectives are appealing for witnesses after seven-year-old Border Collie Rua and two-year-old Belgian Shepard Chance were allegedly poisoned.
The two dogs fell violently ill on Sunday night, and were rushed to the vet; Rua tragically died on the way to the animal hospital, but Chance is still clinging to life.
Beloved family pets Rua (left) and Chance were allegedly poisoned in their Sunbury backyard
Authorities also found six round white pills in the backyard, which are currently being analysed
Police believe between 10pm and 11.30pm, an unknown female was seen loitering in the front of a house on Underhill Court at Sunbury.
It’s believed the heartless woman poisoned the two pets while they were in their own backyard late at night.
The woman is perceived to be Caucasian, in her late 30s to early 40s, slim build, wearing white baggy shorts or a skirt and a dark-coloured top.
Police have released CCTV footage of a woman they would like to speak to in relation to the incident. The video shows the woman sneaking away from the house only to return an hour later.
Two-year-old Chance, a Belgian Shepherd, is fighting for his life after being allegedly baited
Seven-year-old Border Collie Rua tragically died on the way to an animal hospital in Melbourne
Police and the RSPCA are now appealing for the woman or anyone who recognises her to come forward. Authorities also found six white pills in the dogs’ yard, which are currently being analysed.
Baiting animals with poisonous or harmful substance is illegal and offenders face 12 months imprisonment and up to $40,000 in fines.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at online.
Chance is still fighting for life in the veterinary hospital two days after being allegedly baited
Police are appealing for any information about a women seen loitering near the Sunbury house