Investigations find no wrongdoing by park officials
“No animals were abused at the Bunny Park.”
The Ekurhuleni Metro’s conservation manager has found no wrongdoing or animal cruelty at the Bunny Park.
The statement comes following public outcry when a picture was circulated on social media of a park employee allegedly pulling a female goat by her ear, on July 20.
The picture was taken earlier in the week by a visitor of the park and shared with the administrator of The Furry Friends Facebook page, Tania Forrest-Smith who played an integral role in ensuring the park’s animal population receives the care they need.
“I was absolutely devastated when the image surfaced and couldn’t believe that such cruelty was witnessed at the park,” she said.
“We fought incredibly hard to save the park and its animal residents, ensuring that they are well looked after and protected. The matter has been reported to the relevant authorities and we expect an investigation to be conducted.”
According to Zweli Dlamini, spokesperson for the Ekurhuleni Metro, a full-scale investigation was launched into the incident and it was found that the nanny goat had given birth to three healthy kids prior to the photo being taken.
“The image is not a true reflection of what transpired,” said Dlamini.
“The official was assisting the goat to stand following the birthing process, lifting it by its horn.”
He continued by saying that the nanny had given birth to the triplets near the boundary fence and needed assistance to be moved to a place of safety where it could recover, feed and bond with the kids.
Staff at the Bunny Park are obligated to assist all the animals in the park as and when they need support,” he said.
“No animals were abused. The city wishes to reiterate that all animals at the park are well fed and cared for.”
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