The brutal killing of a husky named Max, which was beaten to death after allegedly attacking goats at a neighbouring property, caused a flurry of rage among community members and animal lovers on December 30. Social media was buzzing about the case and a page aiming to get justice for Max, was also created.
The dog was allegedly killed by the owner of the goats, Mr Spahn of Ilanda Guest House. The Lowveld SPCA and the White River K9 unit apparently went to investigate the case after it had been reported by Max’s owner, Mr Marius Kotze. The dog’s carcass was taken to a vet for a post-mortem, which concluded that a rib punctured his lung and that he had drowned in his own blood.
In a press release from the national council of SPCAs (NSPCA), it confirmed that the Lowveld branch was working closely with White River SAPS to ensure that justice is served.
Max’s owner laid a charge of animal cruelty in terms of the Animals Protection Acts against Spahn. The NSPCA confirmed that further charges could be added to the case once the post-mortem report had been received. Kotze was, to his surprise, also charged for contravention of animal protection and was set to appear in court on Friday January 9.
The Lowveld branch is currently working with the investigating officer to ensure that they have a strong case. The NSPCA emphasised that in all cases of animal cruelty when the SPCA laid charges, a comprehensive and complete docket was submitted to the SAPS and that it took time.
“The docket is in preparation,” explained senior inspector, Mr Jaco Pieterse of the NSPCA. “There has been a huge media and public reaction to this issue. We share the outrage and horror, but at the same time we ask for understanding. To act in the best interest of the animal, we need to ensure that the complete, final docket is submitted.
“Of course, the issue is emotive,” added Pieterse. “Sadly, this dreadful case is just one of many of absolute horror which took place over the festive season and with which the SPCA is dealing. Resources countrywide have been stretched to their limit and we appeal to everyone to support the SPCA movement in our endeavours to prevent animal cruelty and to support us when we take decisive action against perpetrators.”
The NSPCA noted in its press release that there were initiatives to raise money to assist the case, but said funds should rather be donated directly to the Lowveld SPCA, which was helping with the case and others similar to it.
Read a comprehensive report on the case here or find out what husky owners and experts say about the animals’ predatory nature here.
