Cape Town - A hostile pet owner saw Cape of Goodhope SPCA inspectors enlist the help of police as they rescued two dogs from harsh conditions recently.
SPCA Inspectors were in possession of a court order from the Bellville Magistrate’s Court giving them the legal right to remove dogs that were confined to a small makeshift cage, the organisation said. However the animals’ owner retaliated and obstructed the inspectors from performing their duties, so police were called to observe the situation in case of an emergency.
According to chief inspector Jaco Pieterse, the SPCA had received a complaint in mid-August this year concerning two pit bull-type dogs that were kept in unsuitable conditions.
“Our inspectors investigated on the same day and found two dogs in a very small cage of sorts. When questioned about why the dogs were in a cage, the owner said there wasn’t enough space for the children to play. The inspector educated the owner and issued a written warning for the dogs to be removed from the cage,” he said.
According to the organisation, after several follow-up inspections and more warnings, the owner refused to comply and continued to keep the dogs caged up.
“We always try to educate pet owners first and issue warnings in the hope that problems will be corrected. In most cases, people generally comply and solve the issue. Sadly, our warnings fell on deaf ears this time,” said Pieterse.
The SPCA said it was obliged to obtain a court order to remove the dogs. Both dogs were subsequently confiscated under the Bellville Magistrate’s Court order in terms of the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962, read together with Regulation 468.
The dogs are now in the custody of the Cape of Good Hope SPCA.
“Our Inspectors are not deterred by intimidation tactics or threats. We have a job to do – to protect animals,” added Pieterse.
The SPCA urges the public to report cruelty to animals by calling 021 700 4158/9 during office hours or 083 326 1604 after hours or by sending an email to [email protected] All reports are treated as confidential.