POLOKWANE – The National Council of SPCA has told Review that they are aware of dog meat being fed to congregants at a church in Seshego and that the SPCA is only able to work within the parameters of the law.
This follows outrage over a prophet feeding his congregants dog meat as Holy Communion.
Read more: [GRAPHIC PHOTOS] Polokwane prophet feeds congregants dog meat as communion
Speaking to Review, the NSPCA’s public relations officer, Meg Wilson said that although the NSPCA understands the public’s outrage regarding the incident, this is not the only case where an animal is slaughtered for religious or cultural purposes.
“Farm animals are regularly slaughtered in the name of religion and culture. The question to ask in any sacrifice ceremony is, did the animal suffer? If any animal suffers before or during slaughter, it is unacceptable and a contravention of the Animals Protection Act. All animals matter to the NSPCA,” she said.
When asked what the next step for the NSPCA would be, Wilson added that they are only able to work within the parameters of the law.
“If there is any evidence that the dog was slaughtered inhumanely, or suffered in any way, be it before or during the slaughter, witnesses need to come forward with this in order for appropriate action to be taken,” she said.
Review contacted police spokesperson Col Moatshe Ngoepe, who said the police are not aware of the matter as yet but urged anyone affected to come forward and report the matter to police so they are able to take it further.
