Dog called Splinter is shot dead 'after wandering into his neighbour's front yard'

• A man has been charged over the fatal shooting of his neighbour's dog Splinter 
• The pet wandered into the 49-year-old's front yard at about 12.30pm on Sunday 
• Police allege resident walked out of his front door and shot the dog with a rifle

A man has been charged over the fatal shooting of his neighbour's dog Splinter after the pet wandered into his front yard.

The kelpie, doberman cross entered the Jurien Bay Vista property, about two hours north of Perth, at 12.30pm on Sunday. 

Police allege Splinter was called back by his owner as a 49-year-old resident walked out from his front door and shot the dog with a rifle.

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Splinter (pictured) was allegedly shot dead by his neighbour after wandering on to his property

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Police searched the 49-year-old's home and allegedly found seven rifles, a shotgun, ammunition and drug paraphernalia

The dog was taken to the Dongara Veterinary Clinic but died en route. 

Police searched the 49-year-old's home and allegedly found seven rifles, a shotgun, ammunition and drug paraphernalia. He has been charged with animal cruelty and five counts of possessing an unlicensed firearm.

The Jurien Bay man is also facing convictions over allegedly discharging a firearm to cause fear to the public and the alleged possession of drug paraphernalia, among other charges. 

The 49-year-old will appear in the Geraldton Magistrates Court on September 3. 

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Splinter (pictured) tragically died on his way to Dongara Veterinary Clinic

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Splinter (pictured) was allegedly shot with a rifle by his neighbour at about 12.30pm on Sunday