Poultry farm debacle continues

A FOLLOW-up inspection was recently conducted at the Eden Rock Poultry Farm by the Kloof and Highway SPCA. Escorted by Metro Police, the inspectors entered the property with a warrant that had been issued by the magistrate as the SPCA had previously been denied access.

The inspection revealed that while there had been minor improvements, the housing and living conditions of the chickens were still unacceptable. The findings included the following: chickens in need of veterinary attention, cages not repaired, some chickens were still covered in faeces and one of the sheds still contained a large accumulation of faeces.

According to a media statement issued by the Kloof and Highway SPCA, 24 chickens were removed. Sixteen dead chickens and one rotting, decomposed chicken carcass were found among the live chickens.

The statement further mentioned that the manager of the farm claimed that he treats the sick birds himself or with the help of the owner. The registered medication shown to the inspectors by the manager had expired more than two years ago.

Following the shocking discoveries a meeting was hosted by the SPCA’s Golden Paw Society last week, and during an emotional presentation, inspectorate manager, Cheri Cooke, spoke about the life and habitat of chickens and the abuse they suffer at certain farms. She also elaborated on her disturbing findings at the Eden Rock Poultry Farm.

Meanwhile, the Triumphant Animal Welfare Fund hosted a protest outside the farm recently. According to the fund’s Clair Crook, the aim of the protest was to fight against animal cruelty and inhumane farming conditions.

“We encourage the community to support us as we fight on behalf of these animals. I believe whether you are an animal lover or not – no living creature deserves to be treated this way. We as a community can do something about this,” said Crook.

Attempts to contact the owner proved futile at the time of going to press.