Rangeview dog’s death leads to animal cruelty charges
SPCA inspectors rushed a collapsed dog to a veterinary clinic after reports of severe neglect. Despite emergency treatment, the animal was euthanised due to its critical condition.
An unsterilised male pitbull cross was euthanised after the SPCA intervened at a residence in Rangeview on August 4.
According to Roodepoort/ Krugersdorp SPCA manager Mandi Cattanach, a member of the public contacted the SPCA after discovering a dog on a Rangeview property that had collapsed, was breathing heavily and appeared to be close to death.
She said the person who reported the matter had contacted the owner several times, informing them that their dog was dying, but the owner allegedly showed no concern.
An SPCA inspector responded immediately after the owner was either unwilling or unable to assist with the dog’s medical emergency.
Cattanach said the inspector knew that if she left the dog, it would have suffered severely before dying. The collapsed dog was immediately rushed to a veterinary clinic.
“The vet was horrified by the dog’s condition. Immediately, blood was taken, and it was then that the extent of the dog’s suffering became apparent. His blood was nearly black and thick, while his urine was dark yellow and thick, indicating severe dehydration.
“The dog appeared to have been unable to move for a lengthy period, as he had pressure sores and skin lesions on his body,” she added.
Despite the efforts to save the dog, Cattanach said the vet recommended euthanasia due to the dog’s extremely poor prognosis to end its suffering.
The dog was euthanised and taken to Onderstepoort for a detailed pathology report to determine the extent of the suffering the animal endured.
Cattanach said the owner will be prosecuted and that the SPCA will seek justice.
“The owner contravened various sections of the Animal Protection Act. People often do not realise that South African law protects animals and that the SPCA has the legal authority to enforce the Act. Animal cruelty is a criminal offence, and offenders may face substantial fines, imprisonment and a criminal record,” she explained.
She urged members of the public to report all suspected cases of animal cruelty immediately. Reports can be made by contacting the Roodepoort/ Krugersdorp SPCA on 011 672 0448 or, after hours, on 076 070 1400. Where it is safe to do so, photographs or video footage can provide valuable evidence during investigations and possible prosecutions.
“The SPCA is increasingly encountering cases where animals are left to suffer for extended periods. Too often, owners only show interest once an animal is close to death, emitting a foul odour or becoming an inconvenience. By then, the suffering has already been immense.
“Very seldom do animals simply die due to old age. Every day SPCA staff ask why: Why are animals abused, why are animals left to suffer, why own a pet if you cannot care for it, why keep a dog if you are going to chain the dog? Why? Why? So many whys,” she concluded.
