Several snakes and other animals have been confiscated from a Bredell property following serious concerns about their living conditions and welfare.

The Kempton Park SPCA Inspectorate attended the property on August 18 after receiving a complaint about the welfare of snakes and other animals.

According to Senior Inspector Duàn Coetzee, inspectors found several snakes housed in heavily soiled terrariums, with a strong urine odour, no drinking water and apparent wounds. The enclosures appeared not to have been cleaned for several weeks.

The snakes were also allegedly being fed live rodents.

Inspectors found a mouse feeding on the carcass of another mouse in a cage where there was no available food or water.

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A gecko was also found living in its own waste without access to water and appeared to have a medical condition requiring veterinary treatment.

According to Coetzee, the owner explained that personal difficulties had resulted in the animals being left without proper care for several weeks.

Coetzee said while the SPCA understood that people could experience difficult personal circumstances, animals remained entirely dependent on their owners for food, water, hygiene and medical care.

“Whether an animal is domestic or exotic, ownership comes with an ongoing responsibility to ensure its basic welfare needs are met,” said Coetzee.

Due to the serious welfare concerns identified, the animals were confiscated under warrant and taken for veterinary assessment and treatment. They are currently receiving the care required.

The Kempton Park SPCA Inspectorate is compiling a case docket relating to the conditions in which the animals were kept, the alleged failure to provide appropriate care and veterinary treatment, and the alleged live feeding of rodents.

As the matter remains under investigation, the SPCA said no further details could be provided at this stage.

Help care for the confiscated animals

The SPCA is appealing for donations towards the veterinary treatment and ongoing care of the confiscated animals.

Donations also assist the Inspectorate with investigating cruelty complaints, conducting inspections, rescuing animals and taking action where animal welfare laws may have been breached.

Kempton Park SPCA

First National Bank
Branch: 250 655
Account number: 62131466965
SWIFT: FIRNZAJJ
Reference: Reptiles

“Every contribution, regardless of the amount, can help the SPCA continue caring for animals in need.”

The SPCA is also reminding animal owners that if they are no longer able to care for an animal, they should seek assistance before its welfare is compromised. This could include contacting a local SPCA, veterinarian or another responsible person.

Anyone who suspects an animal is being neglected or abused is urged to report the matter to the Kempton Park SPCA Inspectorate.