NSPCA defends inspector’s actions

The National Council of the SPCA thanked everyone who had the courage to come forward with any allegation of cruelty and assured residents that every matter brought to its intention was taken seriously and investigated.

In a press statement, the NSPCA confirmed that the use of a captive bolt pistol before slitting an animal’s throat was the accepted method to slaughter large animals in abattoirs but was not approved of the SPCA except in cases of dire emergencies where there were no viable alternatives and keeping the animal alive would prolong suffering.

According to the press statement, an investigation has taken place. “Recently, communications have been received and messages circulated relating to the Vryheid SPCA. Claims have been made that dogs in their care have been slaughtered by being pre-stunned using what is known as a captive bolt pistol and then having their throats cut. An inspector was sent to the Vryheid SPCA where all aspects of the SPCA’s operation were scrutinised. No evidence was found that any killing of this kind had taken place. The ‘cold store’ was checked. All carcasses had been euthansed by a local Veterinarian using the prescribed drug for the purpose through injection into a vein, which is an internationally accepted method for the euthanasia of animals.

“In light of this, we confirm that a full investigation was undertaken and no grounds to support any of the allegations circulating were found. The public is assured that the National Council of SPCAs does not cover up issues. We would be the first to take swift and decisive action against anyone in the SPCA movement if any evidence was found of untoward behaviour relating to animals.

Referring to the incident described my Mrs Viktor, the NSPCA replied, “These were emergency, desperate measures in a dire situation when no help had been forthcoming for someone who was working alone and handling an extreme situation. No other instance can be confirmed (in which a dog has been put down in this manner).

Another Article you might  want to read: Tempers flair over ‘Dog Slaughter’.

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