SPCA to lay charges after starving dog case
If convicted, a fine of up to R60 000 or three years imprisonment may be imposed on the owner.
THE Durban & Coast SPCA have confirmed they will be laying charges of animal cruelty against the owners who allegedly let their dog, that was chained up, starve to death.
The case initially came to light after a social media post by Phoenix Animal Care and Treatment (PACT), shocked animal lovers over the cruelty shown to the young pooch. If convicted of an offence in terms of the APA (Animals Protection Act), a fine of up to R60 000 or three years imprisonment may be imposed on the owner.
General manager of the Durban & Coast SPCA, Caroline Smith, said a post mortem revealed the dog was about a year old.
“When our inspector arrived at the home it was revealed the owner had removed the chain and rope and buried the dog in a shallow grave. Our inspector insisted that the dog be exhumed for examination by our veterinarian. It is due to the diligence of the Durban & Coast SPCA, that we are fortunate that the case can go forward.
“A post mortem was carried out by our Controlling Vet, Dr Muchopa on Wednesday afternoon. His report states that the dog was in very poor condition. He was very pale and extremely thin, with no noticeable muscles covering the bones. All bony prominences were visible, and sores were developing on the pelvis from lying on the ground for too long. He weighed a mere 8.8 kilograms. Approximate age from the dentition is around one year,” Smith said.
What’s more, the hair was sloughing from the skin of the dog which was fragile and tearing easily.
“His poor condition is most probably as a result of chronic starvation. Because of the severe muscle loss, he would have most likely been lying in one position for a long time not able to get up until he died. Dr Muchopa added that hair loss around the neck indicated a collar, chain or rope around the neck but unfortunately this was not on the carcass when retrieved by our inspector as it had been removed by the owner.
Smith added the doctor’s report was a shocking indication of the horrific death suffered by this helpless creature.
WARNING: Graphic image below
