Benoni inspector breaks the chains off a Wattivlle dog

The Benoni SPCA will lay charges of animal cruelty under the Animals Protection Act against the owner of a dog which was confiscated in Wattville on November 5 after it was found with a chain embedded in its neck.

Inspector Oageng Mosito responded to the cruelty call and found the dog chained up.

The metal chain embedded into the dog’s neck caused a wound which was badly infected.

Mosito presumes that the dog had been chained from a very young age and had outgrown the size of the chain.

The animal was taken to a vet for treatment and a report will be compiled for prosecution.

The inspector said the owner of the dog violated all five animal freedoms:

• Freedom from hunger and thirst.

• Freedom to express normal behaviour.

• Freedom from fear and distress.

• Freedom from discomfort.

• Freedom from pain and diseases 

A seizure notice was left for the owner by the SPCA as nobody was home at the time of the confiscation; however, Mosito later went to see the owner who explained that he had fallen ill and could no longer look after the animal.

Mosito explained the SPCA does not condone an animal being chained. However, in instances where chaining cannot be avoided it should be done correctly.

“Pet owners should ensure that when an animal is on a running chain that the belt around their neck is thick enough to avoid discomfort.

“The animal should be allowed to move freely and not get chocked by the chain and, most importantly, it should have access to water, food and shelter from all the elements,” he said.

He encouraged pet owners to call the SPCA when they need to be educated on the welfare of an animal and is appealing to the members of the public who have their dogs on a running chain to do it properly.

“If you are unable to do it yourself, we have trained personnel who can set up a proper running chain.

“However, if a dog does not need to be chained, do not chain the dog as there are consequences,” he warned.

Residents who need assistance can call the SPCA on 011 894 2814/5 or visit them at 3 Klein Street, Lakefield.

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