Earlier this week, News24 reported that a 68-year-old man from Lammermoor in Gauteng has been charged with animal cruelty after he cold-bloodedly shot a Pit Bull not only once – but thrice.
We dig into more details about the violent event and share a few important pet parenting tips as part of our mission to stop animal cruelty in its evil tracks.
The offender’s motive for the violent act
The man allegedly heard two dogs fighting just outside his property. He shot one of the dogs three times to stop the dispute between the furious furballs. One of the Pit Bulls sadly didn’t stand a fighting chance against the flying bullets and passed away.
According to Randburg SPCA head of inspectorate, Shiven Bodasing, the man was not entitled to take the law into his own hands. It was not necessary to resort to shooting the dog. SPCA cadet, Bradley Hughes, also confirms that the other dog was not even injured in the fight. That’s an indication that the fight between the two dogs was not severe enough for human intervention.
How will the offender pay for his cruel conduct?
Animal cruelty is a serious crime in South Africa. The SPCA said animal cruelty is a schedule 1 offence and any person convicted of such shall be liable to a fine of R40 000 or direct imprisonment without the option of a fine, in terms of the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962.
The man was taken into custody and charged with animal cruelty as well as unlawful discharge of a firearm and malicious damage to property.
How can we stop animal cruelty?
Education is the cornerstone of building a safe environment for all animals. That’s why Randburg SPCA is on a mission to protect the rights of animals and to educate South Africans about animal abuse.
According to the Randburg SPCA, there is a big difference between deliberate animal cruelty and the result of poverty or lack of education. Whether animal abuse is intentional or due to disadvantaged circumstances, it is a crime that should be prosecuted.
According to the National SPCA’s 2019/2020 annual report, 97 cases of animal abuse are waiting to be finalised through the courts.
If you suspect activities of animal abuse, it’s your responsibility to report it to the NSPCA or the Animal Anti-Cruelty League (AACL).
Report animal cruelty by calling these numbers:
- NPSPCA: 011 907 3590
- Animal Anti-Cruelty League: 011 435 0672
Tips for responsible pet parenting
Responsible pet ownership begins before a pet enters your home. Think twice before you commit.
- Are you financially capable of owning a pet?
- Do you often travel long distances for work?
- Does anyone in your home have allergies?
- Are your children capable of taking care of a pet?
- Is there an adequate amount of lawn for your pet?
- Are you willing to be there for your pet throughout his/her entire life? This could be approximately 15+ years, depending on the pet breed.
Once you’ve set your mind on getting a pet there are a few things you should do to ensure that your pet has a healthy and happy life:
- Feed your pet a healthy and balanced diet.
- Ensure that your pet always has clean drinking water.
- Provide your pet with adequate shelter and a comfortable place to sleep.
- Give your pet daily exercise and room for exploring.
- Take your pet to the vet for routine check-ups. This will ensure that your furry family member remains healthy and doesn’t spread a disease to other pets.
Did you know?
If you quote and buy a pet policy online here, dotsure.co.za contributes on your behalf towards feeding a shelter pet? By signing up for pet insurance, you’re not only being a responsible pet parent, but also a super caring human being for spreading the love to the less fortunate furry ones out there.
