The National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) recently removed 21 dogs and seven cats from a property in Trichardt.

Authorities obtained a warrant from the Secunda Magistrate’s Court on March 17, after two warnings to the owner were ignored.

“The intervention followed repeated non-compliance with warnings to address serious animal welfare concerns, including animals found in unsanitary conditions with signs of illness and neglect,” said Samanta Stelli, spokesperson for the NSPCA.

Responding to a complaint in early March, NSPCA inspectors found animals in poor condition at the Trichardt property.

“Dogs, cats, birds, and chickens were found on site, with several animals showing signs of neglect. Cats presented with symptoms consistent with illness, including ocular discharge, respiratory distress, and poor body condition.

“Some dogs were observed with skin disease, large growths, overgrown nails, and signs of emaciation,” said Stelli.

She said the property and litter areas, both inside and outside the home, contained excessive faeces.

During the inspection, a warning was issued to the individuals responsible for complying with the Animal Protection Act 71 of 1962.

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The initial warning required the individuals to address serious welfare concerns, including:

• Unsanitary living conditions (excessive faeces and urine).
• Lack of proper hygiene in animal living areas.
• Untreated medical conditions (poor body condition of animals).

After it became clear that the welfare concerns were ongoing, including one of the individuals on the property indicating their unwillingness to comply with the warning, NSPCA inspectors, accompanied by a SAPS officer, executed a warrant at the property on March 17.

At the follow-up inspection, some slight improvements were noted in certain areas. However, critical issues remained, including:

• Dogs were still confined in overcrowded, unsanitary conditions
• Persistent faecal contamination and poor hygiene
• Ongoing neglect, including untreated health issues and poor body condition

“About 21 dogs were found confined to a room and a tiny backyard area where conditions included excessive faeces and urine, dirty bedding, and an overpowering, putrid odour. Several dogs still showed signs of neglect, including poor body condition and untreated medical issues.”

“Seven cats were taken into the care of the NSPCA during the inspection. Several of these cats were in poor condition and showed signs of illness, including respiratory issues, ocular discharge, and emaciation, requiring further veterinary assessment and care,” said Stelli.

She said 21 dogs were seized and removed to an SPCA for safekeeping, care, and veterinary assessment and treatment.

The birds and chickens observed on the property during the inspection were found to be in an acceptable condition, with sufficient food and water available.

“The NSPCA is in the process of instituting charges in terms of the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962. Veterinary reports are being finalised to support legal proceedings,” said Stelli.

Cases involving multiple animals and repeated non-compliance remain a consistent concern, often requiring prosecution to prevent further suffering.

Penalties under the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962 may include a fine and/or imprisonment. Any sentence imposed will depend on the court’s findings. Public reporting plays a critical role in enabling intervention in such cases.

“The NSPCA will continue to act within its mandate to enforce animal welfare legislation and ensure accountability where neglect is identified,” concluded Stelli.

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