The accused in the widely circulated animal cruelty case returned to court on April 28, following public outrage sparked by a viral TikTok video.

The video, which drew the attention of the National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) and the public, showed a young woman dancing while an emaciated dog, later named Bobby, stood visibly distressed in the background in the Dawn Park area.

When the matter was placed on the court roll, it emerged that the state resolved not to charge the influencer who filmed the video, but rather the dog’s owner, Elliot Tshigo. He faces charges of animal cruelty.

According to NSPCA Inspector Denise Govender, who was present in court, the case has been postponed to June 18 for trial. The accused has, during the proceedings, indicated his intention to plead not guilty.

The NSPCA confirmed it will continue to monitor proceedings closely and stands ready to testify on Bobby’s behalf when the trial commences.

The NSPCA has appealed to the public for donations to support its continued court attendance and animal welfare efforts. Contributions can be made in Bobby’s honour at: https://nspca.co.za/donate/

The NSPCA said it does not pursue these matters lightly. For it, every case brought before a court represents both accountability for the individual accused and a broader message: animal cruelty has consequences in South Africa, and the NSPCA exists to ensure that message holds.

How you can help
Bobby’s story began because ordinary South Africans refused to scroll past what they saw. Their reports made her rescue possible.

If you witness or suspect animal cruelty or neglect, please contact your nearest SPCA or the NSPCA directly. Your call can change a life.

Background: Bobby’s recovery and rescue
Bobby, a two-year-old female crossbreed Boerboel, has made a remarkable recovery following her rescue. She was found severely malnourished; she had been forced to eat plastic to survive and was suffering from fly strike, as well as heavy tick and flea infestations.

After concerned citizens reported the situation, the NSPCA traced the location seen in the viral video and found Bobby in a state of extreme neglect.
She was initially placed in the care of the Nigel SPCA before being transferred to the Boksburg SPCA, where she received intensive medical treatment, proper nutrition, and round-the-clock care under veterinary supervision.

Today, Bobby is healthy, rehomed, and thriving in a loving environment. Those caring for her describe her as affectionate, bringing joy to everyone she meets.

The influencer featured in the video reportedly mocked the NSPCA on social media after learning of the investigation. The NSPCA’s Special Projects Unit (SPU) played a key role in the case, swiftly identifying both the owner and the individual in the video, and ensuring Bobby’s rescue.

“Who knows what could have happened to Bobby if our SPU hadn’t intervened,” the NSPCA said in a statement shared on its online platforms.
Authorities have urged the public to report any suspected animal abuse or neglect, emphasising that early intervention can save lives.

Also Read: Adopt a pet at Boksburg SPCA