SPCA confiscates three dogs to be found suffering from hunger, health problems
One owner had no explanation for the neglect of his pets.
The Boksburg SPCA recently confiscated three dogs from Villa Liza informal settlement after they were found to be suffering from hunger and health problems.
According to Boksburg SPCA manager Vicky Finnemore, the SPCA issued a warning letter to the dog owners but they received no response.
“A warrant to enter the premises and seize the three dogs was granted at the Boksburg Magistrate’s Court. The dogs were removed and taken to a local veterinarian where one was diagnosed with a severe skin condition known as pyotramatic dermatits (hotspot).”
Finnemore explained that a hotspot condition involves an area of skin which becomes inflamed and infected.
“The affected skin often appears as a moist, oozing reddened area that is very painful and itchy to the dog. “Unfortunately, she had to be euthanised as she was too aggressive to treat. The second dog had a chronic ear infection in both ears and all were infested with external parasites,” Finnemore said.
Finnemore said the owner arrived and had no explanation for the neglect of his pets.
The remaining two dogs have been treated and are now up for adoption.
The Boksburg SPCA will open a case of cruelty to animals.
Meanwhile, a male Labrador from Vosloorus that had apparently been chained to a pole for years was also confiscated by the Boksburg SPCA.
Finnemore said the dog had been living outside for years without shelter.
“Animals confined for long periods of time start to display symptoms of what’s known as stereotypic behaviour. “This can be described as repetitive, seemingly aimless behaviour such as pacing, jumping up and down, excessive grooming or spinning in circles. We don’t only see this in domestic pets. Wild animals in zoos and laboratory animals often display ‘stereotypy’ from being unable to express normal behaviour,” said Finnemore.
The owner didn’t make contact with the SPCA and the dog was put up for adoption.
He was named Leo and was put up for adoption.
On January 16, Leo received his first bath and pampering.
“Watching him enjoy his freedom on the grass in our exercise paddocks brings warmth to the soul,” said Finnemore.
Anyone who would like to donate towards the medical and kenneling costs may contact the Boksburg SPCA office on 011 916 5906/7 or deposit the donation into the bank account.
Boksburg SPCA bank details: SPCA Boksburg, ABSA, Current Acc: 404 6388 139, Branch: 632005, Ref: Confiscation.
