SPCA confiscates ’starving’ huskies from Van Dyk Park home

The Boksburg SPCA is appealing to the public for financial support and dog food after confiscating five huskies that appeared to be starving from a Van Dyk Park home on May 26.

According to Boksburg SPCA manager Vicky Finnemore, the dogs, three males and two females between the ages of four and nine, were seized under a warrant and taken to the society.

“The owner claims he fed them daily, but it is obvious that these animals are starving.

“Our veterinarian thoroughly examined each animal. The dogs are infested with internal and external parasites. Two have biliary, their ears are raw with fly strikes, and one needs a front leg amputation. The animals are weak and off balance when they run in our grass paddocks. We hope this is just because of malnutrition, but we have to X-ray them next week for hip dysplasia,” explained Finnemore.

“They are submissive, broken animals without a bone of aggression. The dogs had intrusive and uncomfortable tests done on them today, but unlike the active, alert breed of husky we know, these poor souls stood there with their heads buried in our inspector’s arms while the vet gently took the samples he needed. It was heart-wrenching,” she added.

Finnemore confirmed the SPCA gets no government funding and relies solely on donations.

“We believe that most, if not all, these dogs have a good chance of recovery, but we need help. An X-ray for one dog will cost about R800. We need funds for parasite remedies, deworming, special dietary needs, veterinary examinations and kenneling. Two of them are starting biliary, and one dog may have to have her front leg amputated.”

She said the Boksburg SPCA would prosecute the owner for negligence and cruelty.

“We promise to try our best to ensure justice is served.”

If you can assist, call 011 916 5906/7.

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