‘Dognapping’ a reason for concern
Marcelle Maritz, Manager of the Percy Fyfe SPCA appeals to the community to be on high alert especially for suspicious behaviour.
![](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2016/05/pitbull.jpg)
MOKOPANE – Although dog fighting is a felony offense, organised dog fighting still takes place on a regular basis right on our doorstep.
Dog fighting is a type of blood sport generally defined as opposing two game dogs against one another in a ring or a pit for the entertainment of the spectators or the gratification of the dog fighters.
Marcelle Maritz, Manager of the Percy Fyfe SPCA: “We receive numerous complaints on a daily basis from residents saying that their dogs are missing. Last week we caught two suspects in their tracks in a village outside of Mokopane trying to hide a dog that they stole from a yard in town.”
![The employees for the Percy Fyfe SPCA caught two suspects in their track last week as they were trying to steal a dog from 'n yard in town. Photo: Supplied](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2016/05/dogfighting_21075-520x390.jpg)
Maritz appeals to the community to be on high alert especially for suspicious behaviour.
“I know that these dogs are used for organised dog fighting and we are hot on the trail of these offenders,” Maritz said.
Maritz further said the popular dog of choice for fighting is the Pit Bull Terrier.
This does not mean that the pit bull is unsuitable as a family pet.
When a dog is treated well, he’s likely to develop into a well-behaved companion and cherished member of the family.
Maritz thanks her staff for their devotion and hard work and for being the voice of these animals.
“We will not tolerate any cruelty towards animals,” Maritz concluded.
redaksie.bosvelder@nmgroup.co.za