Keep your pets safe, says NSPCA representative in Standerton

Recent reports of dangerous dogs roaming the streets of Meyerville had residents concerned for the safety of their pets and children.

According to information from a WhatsApp group, two dogs, apparently a pitbull terrier and a boxer, escaped from their yards and attacked other dogs in the Meyerville area.

In lieu of this, the Standerton Advertiser spoke to local NSPCA representative and animal health technician Nicje Moolman to determine the causes of such incidents.

Moolman said cases like these are more common than people think.

“When you take in a runaway dog off the streets, it is a difficult process to introduce them to your pets. Conflict might arise in these situations, especially where older dogs are involved,” said Moolman.

These cases can happen in your yard just as easily as when dogs escape from their yards.

It is essential to correct how pets escape their yards.

“Gates and fences that are too short can also contribute to the problem. The simple solution is to take five minutes after work or on a Saturday and fix the gaps,” added Moolman.

Routine fence maintenance is the first line of defence in protecting your pets. Another important step is to sterilise them because ‘fixed’ dogs are less likely to fight with other animals.

“Dogs with less hormones are less likely to fight. However, when where there are multiple dogs in the same yard, there is always a risk,” explained Moolman.

In her opinion, having fewer pets is better.

“Sometimes, people take in more pets than they can handle. The more pets you take in, the higher the likelihood they will grab one another,” added Moolman, saying the best approach to aggressive animals is a preventative one.

To ensure your four-legged friend is safe around other people, have them regularly socialise with people.

Ensure your dogs have had all three of their injections before removing them from the areas they are used to, especially the first time.

“It is important to keep track of where your pets are. A microchip tracker or collar with your contact information will help you find your pets faster if they get lost,” explained Moolman.

She shared a few warning signs to accurately assess whether a dog is aggressive.

According to her, small behaviours like grunting when you move them over could be a warning sign.

“It is important to spend time with your dogs to ensure they learn how to react around people. If you leave your dog alone, they will never learn compassion,” added Moolman.

Foaming at the mouth, flat ears, unblinking eyes and a display of teeth could all be early signs of aggression in dogs.

When dogs start to fight, there are certain procedures to follow to ensure the safety of all involved. The first step is to take photos or videos without identifying the dogs’ owners. Do not upload them to social media, rather send them directly to the owners directly and the SPCA or NSPCA thereafter.

“Cases should be reported immediately. It is better to sort the problem out immediately rather than later,” said Moolman.

Do not try to break up the fight under any circumstances because you could get injured.

Spraying water at the dogs until they break apart works well to break up fights,” said Moolman.

Though Moolman shared these tips to keep your pets safe, she could not disclose any information regarding the recent dog fight.