Wolmarans Street residents are complaining about two pit bull crossbreeds that leave their yard and bite other dogs in their own yards through the fencing.

Marius van Reeuwyk, the chief animal welfare inspector of the South African Animal Welfare Inspectorate Association (Saawia), is in the process of issuing a warrant to remove the dogs.

This action stems from attempts to educate the owner and give her several warnings, to which she did not comply. Apart from the two grown dogs, she also has three puppies roaming the street.

“People must realise that if your dog is in the street and bites another dog or person, you will be held responsible for any medical costs,” said Van Reeuwyk.

He urged owners to take responsibility for their dogs and keep them in their yards for everyone’s safety.

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“I see an increase in dogs roaming the streets of Evander, Secunda and Trichardt. Dog owners are neglecting to keep their dogs, especially power breed dogs, on their own property. According to the Animal Protection Act, the owners of such dogs can be criminally charged.”

Van Reeuwyk encouraged people to open cases with the SAPS if neighbours’ dogs bite them or their dogs on the streets.

“It is not okay for your dog to roam the streets, even if he knows where his house is,” said Van Reeuwyk.

Saawia is a non-profit animal welfare organisation and depends on donations to survive and protect animals.

To support them, call Van Reeuwyk on 067 858 9719.

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