Keep your pets under lock and key

Behind the fences of dubious residents on plots and in abandoned buildings lays the dark world of illegal dog fighting.

Dog fighting and betting have been made illegal following the Animal Protection Act and it has been brought to the herald’s attention that illegal dog fighting is prevalent in Randfontein.

If the fighting itself is not horrific enough, people in these rings often steal dogs to pit them against other dogs.

“It’s not just pit bulls they steal. They steal little Malteses and throw them in the ring in order to build other dogs’ bloodlust,” Lucy Philips of the SPCA Randfontein said.

Horrifically, Philips stated that dogs are not the only ones targeted. Cat owners also should be cautious as cats also are used as a means to build dogs’ bloodlust.

Following an enquiry at the Randfontein SPCA, they have given Randfontein-residents a few tips on how to prevent their dogs being stolen for dog fighting rings.

Firstly, one may think having dogs outside is the best form of protection, however, in areas where dog fighting rings are, it is best to keep dogs inside at night.

“It is easier to train a dog to sleep inside than to retrieve it after being stolen,” Phillips said.

She urges dog owners to get their dogs micro-chipped for identification and tracking purposes.

Phillips stated further that dog fighting is a big industry and there is a lot of money involved in it.

The only way to expose these rings is to talk about it. Should residents notice any suspicious activity it should be reported immediately to the SPCA where they will advise further steps.

For more information or to report animal cruelty call 011 412 3114 or 011 743 1829.