The Springs SPCA received a tip-off regarding the condition of two dogs at a property in the Everest informal settlement on September 2.
The complainant alleged the dogs were in a very poor condition and chained without shelter.
Following the tip-off, the SPCA manager Annecia le Roux requested field officer Lenka Paulos Kholu to investigate the situation on September 4 to assess the condition of the dogs to determine further steps.
“Kholu reported the conditions described in the complaint were accurate and confirmed the poor condition of the dogs and that they were chained without shelter,” said Le Roux.
“I obtained a warrant from the Springs Magistrate’s Court on September 23, authorising me to enter the premises to examine the condition of the animals. It was also to determine whether they were subjected to cruelty or neglect.”
Le Roux explained the scene was appalling and inhumane with the dogs living in a cage far too small, especially for animals their size.
She said the pit enclosure had dangerous objects that could easily injure them.
“To make matters worse, the pit bull was chained inside this already suffocating space as if being in a cage was not tormenting enough. Filthy water in containers crusted with dirt was the only thing to drink,” she said.
She added there was no food in sight, leaving the dogs to starve in a prison of filth and neglect.
“This was not just neglect – it was deliberate cruelty, and no animal deserves to endure such a disgusting existence.”
Le Roux requested the field officer to remove the dogs from the enclosure, as the conditions violated the Animals Protection Act on numerous counts.
After Kholu successfully loaded the dogs into the SPCA vehicle, the property owner arrived, where he allegedly became agitated and hostile towards the staff members.
“As he came towards our vehicle, he showed obvious intentions to remove the dogs by force that were secured inside. I could prevent him from opening the door.”
Le Roux added the owner disregarded their presence, forcefully pushing her aside and grabbed the pit bull by the scruff of its neck, attempting to remove it from the vehicle.
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She said this act not only jeopardised the safety of the dog but also raised significant concerns regarding the owner’s aggressive behaviour and disregard for both the animal’s welfare and the legal protocols they had to uphold.
Taking all necessary precautions to mitigate further stress or harm to the animals, Le Roux said they successfully returned to the SPCA with the dogs.
Both dogs have since been at the Springs SPCA undergoing treatment and evaluation.
The owner will be charged with various violations of the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962, which seeks to consolidate and amend the laws relating to the prevention of cruelty to animals.
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