The Brakpan SPCA received a complaint on Sunday from a concerned member of the public who reported that there was a puppy locked in a car since Saturday night, without any windows open or water available, at Carnival City.
SPCA administrative manager Ann Martin and SPCA general manager inspector Shiven Bodasing responded immediately to the scene.
Upon arrival, a German shepherd-type dog of approximately three months of age was found inside a red Volkswagen parked in the sun.
“The puppy was without water and was allegedly inside the car since the evening of the 25th, for approximately 21 hours,” said Bodasing.
“Upon interviewing witnesses and establishing the condition of the animal, the puppy was immediately removed from the vehicle at 1pm.
“The animal showed clear symptoms of severe distress and was removed from the scene by the SPCA.”
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Once the puppy was safe and in the custody of the SPCA, Bodasing started the search for the perpetrator, who was found in the casino.
The man was arrested by Bodasing for contravening the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962.
He was then taken to the Brakpan Police Station for detention and processing, and is currently facing charges of animal cruelty.
“It is abhorrent negligence on behalf of the owner to have left a puppy in a locked vehicle for more than 20 hours without any shade or water,” said Bodasing.
The society urges members of the public to refrain from leaving their pets in a car at malls or other establishments.
It is not only cruel and negligent, but any person contravening the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962 shall be liable to arrest and prosecution.
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