SPCA forced to follow the law
The SPCA cannot just remove domestic animals that are being sold on the side of the road; as much as they wish they could, they also have to abide by the laws of the country.
The Roodepoort Krugersdorp SPCA is often criticised for not just taking away or confiscating an animal that is possibly being abused.
According to Roodepoort Krugersdorp SPCA, it is not as simple as it sounds, as no one can remove an animal without a warrant.
On Thursday, July 22 a man attempted to sell a small chocolate Yorkie at Makro Strubens Valley, and at Lifestyle Crossing at the corner of Hendrik Potgieter Road and Nic Diederichs Boulevard in Wilgeheuwel.
Read article here: Chocolate Yorkie saved from being sold on the streets
Owner of BCI Security, Corinda Loots contacted the police who immediately sent the SPCA. However, the SPCA informed them that the person had the right to sell the dog.
Corinda subsequently bought the dog because she felt it needed to be rescued, even though it is against their rules.
The SPCA often has to deal with members of the public’s complaints (and allegations). These are some of them:
• Animals have been left abandoned on a property
• Animals are not receiving love
• Animals are not being fed properly
• Animals do not have water
• Dogs are barking
Complaints regarding animal cruelty must be investigated and when, and only when, SPCA inspectors have evidence that there is actual cruelty – when the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962 is being contravened – the SPCA is able to obtain a warrant from a Magistrate to remove animals from an owner or property legally.
No one can force their way onto a property and remove an animal without a warrant, as this is theft.
Regarding roadside trade:
The SPCA cannot just remove domestic animals that are being sold on the side of the road; as much as they wish they could, they also have to abide by the laws of the country.
The local municipal by-laws control the sale of animals on the side of the road, and Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department should be policing and enforcing the by-laws.
The SPCA urges the public to report it when animals are sold on the side of the road. One of their inspector will go out and check the condition of the animals, and if they are in a poor condition the necessary steps will be taken; each case being different.
