Members of the public who witness acts of cruelty towards animals are often so appalled by what they see, they phone the Newcastle SPCA to report it.
Often however, according to the SPCA’s Heather Gero, the information they are able to give is not enough to enable the Inspector assigned to the case, to investigate it thoroughly – especially if legal action is warranted.
“Lack of information impedes successful investigation and prosecution,” explained Gero.
She has therefore provided the following procedure to follow if you should see or learn of cases of cruelty:
“While each case is different and specific action does not necessarily apply in every case, in general terms, this is what you should do,” said Gero.
- Firstly, if the cruelty is something that can be stopped immediately, then stop it. “If, for example, a horse or dog is being unmercifully beaten, intervene if you can safely do so,” said Heather, adding that the sort of person who would mistreat an animal would be likely to vent their anger of anyone who interfere, so members of the public are urged to use discretion.
- Few occasions arise when a camera s readily available, but if there should be one, photographs are useful evidence.
- Contact the SPCA as soon as possible – “Please report situations of concern telephonically, as Facebook and emails may not be monitored around the clock,” advised Gero.
- Give your name, address and telephone number for record purposes. “This also enables us to inform you of the result of the investigation. The policy of the SPCA is to treat all complaints in the strictest of confidence, so the names of complainants and not divulged to anyone,” assured Gero.
- Give a detailed description of what you saw, as factually and unemotionally as you are able. “This is important, as emotion clouds coherence and important details may be omitted.”
Gero has advised the public not to be afraid to get involved in any legal proceedings which may ensue.
“After all, if you feel strongly enough to report the matter in the first place, you should be prepared to assist us to do whatever has to be done to set the matter right and bring the offenders to justice,” she concluded.
For more information or help, contact the Newcastle SPCA on 034 318 2346 or visit the organisation on Samson Drive in Barry Hertzog Park. You can also email them on newcastlespca@telkomsa.net
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