A man accused of attempting to kill a dog by throwing it off a bridge with weights tied around its neck is due to appear in the Mtubatuba Magistrate’s Court in KZN today (June 18). 

The accused, Muzikayise Mhlongo, faces charges in terms of the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962 for the alleged cruelty. 

In a statement, the National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) said that in March, a witness at the Siyabonga Tourism Centre observed a man holding a brown dog with a blue and white rope, kicking it and throwing it from a bridge into the St Lucia Estuary. 

“A boat operator at the Siyabonga Jetty subsequently found the dog struggling to swim in the estuary. After pulling the animal to safety, she removed a heavy weight that had been tied around its neck,” the NSPCA explained. 

The dog, subsequently named Siyabonga, was later taken in by a member of the public and brought in for veterinary assessment. 

Trauma 

At the time, the Hluhluwe State Veterinary Clinic confirmed Siyabonga had head injuries, and showed signs of neglect, including a heavy parasite infestation, malnourishment and behavioural signs consistent with prior trauma. 

The NSPCA traced the vehicle to the accused in the Mtubatuba area and, during a visit to his home with police, he allegedly admitted to throwing the dog off the bridge, claiming the animal had killed his chickens. 

Place of safety 

Siyabonga has since received veterinary treatment, been vaccinated and sterilised, and is currently in a place of safety. 

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

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