In the wake of a recent pitbull attack incident in Boksburg North involving actor Mondli Thusi, this publication sought clarity from the Boksburg SPCA regarding its role and the procedures applied in cases of this nature.

The incident, which reportedly occurred outside a residential property earlier this month, left the Generations: The Legacy actor injured and requiring medical treatment for dog bite wounds.

The two pitbulls were later surrendered by their owner to the SPCA after the matter was reported, and the organisation subsequently took action in line with its procedures.
Authorities have confirmed that investigations into the incident are ongoing.

SPCA explains procedure in attack cases
In response, the SPCA outlined the steps typically taken when dog attacks are reported, noting that its mandate includes both animal welfare and public safety.

The organisation said that once a complaint is received, animals may be assessed, surrendered by owners, or removed where necessary to prevent further risk to the public.
It further noted that in cases where animals are deemed dangerous and cannot be safely rehomed, legal processes may result in humane euthanasia, either through owner surrender or court directive.

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Owner responsibility emphasised
The SPCA stressed that responsibility for animal behaviour ultimately rests with owners, who are required to ensure that dogs are properly contained, trained and controlled at all times.

The organisation said irresponsible, negligent and reckless ownership remains one of the leading causes of dog attacks.

According to the SPCA, many owners deliberately acquire so-called ‘power breeds’ for security purposes without understanding the level of care, training and experience required to manage them responsibly.

Breeds commonly referred to as ‘power breeds’ include Pitbull Terriers, Rottweilers, Boerboels and Argentine Mastiffs. The SPCA explained that these dogs require experienced owners who can provide proper training, exercise, and discipline.

It warned that inexperienced owners often struggle to control such animals and may resort to chaining or caging them for long periods, which can increase frustration and behavioural problems.

“The right thing for owners to do when they realise they cannot properly handle their dogs is to surrender the animal to their local SPCA before tragedy occurs,” said the organisation.

The SPCA also expressed concern about cases in which dogs are intentionally trained to become aggressive for protection purposes but are later not adequately controlled by their owners.

In addition, the organisation noted that many attacks occur when dogs are allowed to roam freely outside their properties due to inadequate fencing or poor containment.

Any dog can attack
The SPCA emphasised that attacks are not limited to specific breeds – even smaller breeds such as a tiny Chihuahua can attack when frightened or improperly handled.
“Any dog, regardless of breed or size, is capable of biting a human under certain circumstances,” stated the organisation.

Lasting impact on victims and animals
The SPCA said victims of dog attacks are often left with severe physical injuries, emotional trauma and costly medical expenses. In some cases, victims are unable to return to work or regain the quality of life they had before the attack.

Families of victims who lose their lives in severe attacks also suffer long-term emotional trauma and loss.
The SPCA further noted that animals involved in attacks are frequently blamed and may become targets of retaliation by angry community members.

According to the organisation, some dogs are harmed or killed in cruel ways following attacks, despite the underlying issue often stemming from irresponsible ownership and lack of control.
Reporting and enforcement

The SPCA urged members of the public to report all dog attacks to the SAPS, which is responsible for investigating such incidents, as well as to local SPCAs or municipal authorities where animal welfare concerns are involved.

It added that victims may also open criminal cases under the Animal Matters Amendment Act No. 42 of 1993, which holds owners liable for injuries caused by their animals.
The organisation said prompt reporting and responsible ownership remain essential in preventing future attacks and ensuring community safety.

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