But when it comes to a tiny blue heeler known as Osha, this crime was particularly heinous.

In August this year, Osha, along with her brother Chibs, were dumped in a Mount Hutton charity bin when they were a day old.

Sadly, Chibs died two weeks ago, but on Sunday Osha, who is now receiving care through the Rutherford RSPCA, was guest of honour at the Rutherford/Telarah Anglican Parish’s annual Blessing of the Pets.

“This is an important service for us so we can give honour to all creations. Companion animals give such joy and happiness to families that we want honour that,” parish priest Mother Moira Evers said.

“We read about so much cruelty towards animals and it’s just dreadful and I think we need to raise awareness of that and just how important it is to respect our animals and love them because they love us unconditionally.”

A flea market was held following the service to raise money for the RSPCA.