Trend in animal abuse alarms SPCA

She said although Benoni is not isolated in this regard, the society was disappointed by the incidents and has called for a change in societal attitude.

A Daveyton puppy was found painted blue around November, last year; children had reportedly painted the female dog.

“Once cleaned up and given a clean bill of health the dog was homed successfully,” Owens said.

In a separate incident, in late January, youngsters were reported to the SPCA for dragging a dog by its leg in Etwatwa.

“They had tied a rope to a dog’s rear, broken leg and were dragging it up and down the road, simply for their own amusement,” Owens reported.

“The same dog also had approximately eight circular burn marks from its head down the length of its back; it was also tick-infested and displayed symptoms of biliary.

“Due to the animal’s traumatic and weak state, as well as the onset of illness, the inspector made the terrible decision to put the poor animal out of its misery.”

Owens appealed to the public to educate children on animal treatment and the effects of animal abuse.

“All animals, down to the average garden insect, are not just ‘items’ with which people can do as they choose,” she said.

“They are living, breathing creatures that need to eat and drink every day.

“The children are the future of South Africa; we need healthy upstanding individuals to take our country forward to a better, brighter future for all who live in and share this country.”

Owens added that the SPCA inspectors are available to address and educate groups and organisations on the treatment of animals.

For talks, or more information, contact the Benoni SPCA on 011 894 2814/5, or visit them at 3 Klein Street, Lakefield.

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