THE Durban & Coast SPCA has welcomed the successful conviction of a Durban man who had attempted to castrate his dog by placing elastic bands around its testicles. The case, which dates back to 2016, was opened by inspector Lucas Moloi.

The dog, which suffered at the hands of cruelty, had deep open wounds on its body.

The association’s spokesperson, Tanya Fleischer, said the owner did not render any form of veterinary treatment for the wounds.

“As a result the wounds became infected, considerably swollen and started to rot. The dog was barely able to walk, sit or stand due to the excruciating pain. We estimated that he had been suffering for at least two weeks.

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The accused was charged under the Animals Protection Act and was sentenced to a fine of R3 000 or three months imprisonment.

In addition he has been declared unfit to own or be in charge of any animal for a period of 12 months from the date of conviction.

“This was unprecedented for us and we are very proud to have brought this perpetrator to justice. This archaic and cruel practice has been commonly used in rural/farm areas in the past and cases of this nature are rarely reported nowadays but are still occurring,” she said.

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Fleischer said the SPCA is proud of inspector Moloi who was successful in helping secure the conviction.

To report all acts or suspicions of cruelty to the SPCA, call 031 579 6501.

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