The NSPCA reports that a resident is facing animal cruelty charges after he kicked and threw a dog off a bridge with weights tied around its neck.

Someone at a nearby tourism centre witnessed the man carry out this intentional abuse. This resulted in a boat operator pulling the dog to safety from the St Lucia Estuary, and then removing a heavy weight from around the dog’s neck.

The dog, subsequently named Siyabonga, was later taken in by a member of the public and assessed by a veterinarian.

Clinical examination confirmed physical injuries consistent with an impact to the head, as well as evidence of neglect, including a heavy parasite infestation, malnourishment, and behavioural signs consistent with prior trauma.

The NSPCA traced the vehicle to a suspect in the Mtubatuba area.

During a visit to the suspect’s property, conducted with the SAPS, the individual is reported to have admitted to throwing the dog off the bridge, alleging the animal had killed his chickens. He expressed no remorse for his actions.

Siyabonga has since received veterinary treatment, been vaccinated, and sterilised.

He is in a place of safety, where he has been assessed by an NSPCA inspector and found to be in improving condition.

Cases of this nature, where an animal is subjected to deliberate, premeditated harm, represent some of the most serious crimes investigated by the NSPCA.

This case was brought to the NSPCA’s attention through reports from multiple members of the public, whose timely intervention was decisive in preserving both the evidence and the animal’s life.

Members of the public who witness suspected animal cruelty are urged to report it to the NSPCA on 011 907 3590, www.nspca.co.za, or your local SPCA.