SPCA steps in after chickens kept in cruel conditions
"Some of the chickens were so diseased that we had no choice but to end their immediate suffering."
The Brakpan SPCA is appealing to members of the public to always, even when in doubt, report cases of animal cruelty.
This follows the recent discovery of chickens being kept in appalling conditions in a flat in Brakpan Central. The chickens were being sold for human consumption.
According to the local SPCA, the society received a complaint regarding a ‘chicken business’ being conducted in the town.
“We expected the usual nature of this type of complaint but were shocked at the level of cruelty,” said Brakpan SPCA manager Tamaryn Lombard.
“Upon inspection, we found nearly 100 chickens kept on the balcony and in the flat and being sold off for their meat. We can’t even begin to try and explain the condition these chickens were living in.”
The society contacted the health department with officials arriving quickly on the scene and issuing an immediate removal notice.
“Some of the chickens were so diseased that we had no choice but to end their immediate suffering. Imagine people would’ve bought and consumed these at the risk of their health?
“If this wasn’t reported, animals and humans would suffer. Be aware of your surroundings and report cruelty, even when you’re not sure. It’s our job to investigate all reports.”
The Brakpan SPCA may be contacted on 011 742 2007.
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