A criminal charge has been laid against a man who slung a dog across the front of his bakkie to abandon it.
The Cape of Good Hope SPCA recently took swift action following a distressing incident of animal cruelty reported on social media. In late July, an individual was witnessed abandoning his dog in an open field opposite the Blue Downs Magistrates’ Court, prompting immediate community concern and action.
According to Belinda Abrahams, spokesperson for the SPCA, eyewitnesses, who later provided sworn affidavits, observed the man forcibly removing the dog from his vehicle and throwing it across the bonnet into the veld. “Quick intervention by onlookers prevented the individual from retrieving the animal and fleeing the scene,” she said. “The dog is currently under the care of another animal-rescue organisation, where it is safe and receiving the necessary attention.”
According to Abrahams SPCA Inspectors pursued the registration number of the vehicle, which led them to an address in Strand. “Although the initial investigation at this location did not yield results, continued efforts were fuelled by valuable tips from the community. Subsequently, the SPCA team located both the perpetrator and his vehicle at another address provided. Despite the culprit’s contrary account of the events, our inspectors were compelled to dismiss his version based on the overwhelming evidence and witness testimonies. As a result, criminal charges for animal cruelty were filed at Mfuleni Police Station. The case is now under further investigation by the police.”
She expressed her deepest gratitude to the courageous witnesses whose affidavits have enabled legal pursuits and to the community members whose invaluable information assisted in tracking the perpetrator down. “This case highlights the crucial role of community vigilance and cooperation in combating animal cruelty. The SPCA reminds the public that those convicted of animal cruelty could face fines up to R40 000 and or up to 12 months imprisonment, including a criminal record. We urge anyone who witnesses acts of animal cruelty to report them to our 24/7 call centre at 021 700 4158/9 or via email at inspectorate@spca-ct.co.za. Your reports are confidential, and your actions can save lives.”
