UPDATE: NSPCA clears policy misconceptions
JOBURG - The authority of the SPCA network only stretches so far.
“It is a common belief that if any incident involves an animal, it must fall under the auspices of the SPCA, which is not strictly true,” said NSPCA public relations spokesperson, Christine Kuch.
The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA) has responded to the incident where a bull terrier attacked a neighbour’s dog by pulling it onto its property.
Read full story HERE: Warning – Graphic Content: Bull terrier kills neighbours dog
The SPCA had been called out on previous incidents when the bull terrier had entered their neighbours property and the SPCA had been reluctant to respond to the callout.
“The SPCA enforces the Animal Protection Act and this refers or relates to actions by humans, with intent having to be proven,” said Kuch.
According to Kuch, the Animal Protection Act prescribes the powers of entry to an inspector with magisterial authorisation for that area. This is parallel to the rights of entry of a serving police officer. Without this authorisation, a warrant is needed to enter anyone’s premises. Obtaining a warrant takes time and motivation in the form of an affidavit.
Dogs fighting in the street are different in that a thoroughfare is municipal property and an agent acting for the municipal pound, that is usually sub-contracted to the SPCA, may act and take the dogs to the pound.
Craig Rudman, Randburg SPCA genral manger confirmed that they do not have the authority of government officials to trespass on private property.
“If SPCA personnel were in the area, they would no doubt assist. But, would they even be in a position to do so in terms of the time factor and also gaining access?” Kuch asked.
The SPCAs in Greater Johannesburg do not enforce any bylaws that refer to animals.
“The harsh reality is that people are responsible for their own animals, in every respect. This is certainly not meant to sound unsympathetic or defensive,” Kuch explained.
However, in terms of the animal’s welfare, the SPCA will investigate any issue drawn to its attention.
Details: NSPCA, 011 907 3590.
