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American Bully Owner Arrested for Ear Cropping

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On Friday, 25 October 2024, an American Bully owner was arrested after an incident involving the maiming of a young American Bully’s ears came to light. This case emerged from the Edgemead community, where residents reported seeing the four-month-old puppy named Troy with intact ears and then with his ears removed just days later.

Investigation

Inspector Werner Taljaard spearheaded the investigation into this cruel act. Through diligent inquiry, the owner admitted to hiring a third party for R3500 to perform the ear cropping in his home. The owner informed Inspector Taljaard that the procedure took place in his entertainment room and lasted about an hour.

Legal Framework Against Ear Cropping

In terms of Section 2(1)(a) of the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962, it is a criminal offence to maim any animal. Maiming is defined as causing permanent and unnecessary harm, by disfiguring an animal or removing a body part. The South African Veterinary Council (SAVC) also prohibits veterinarians from engaging in ear cropping for cosmetic purposes, classifying such actions as unethical.

OFFENCES IN RESPECT OF ANIMALS – (1) Any person who:

1) overloads, overdrives, overrides, ill-treats, neglects, infuriates, tortures or maims or cruelly beats, kicks, goads or terrifies any animal;

shall, subject to the provisions of this Act and any other law, be guilty of an offence and liable on conviction to a fine or to imprisonment for a period not exceeding twelve months or to such imprisonment without the option of a fine.

2) For the purposes of sub-section (1) the owner of any animal shall be deemed to have permitted or procured the commission or omission of any act in relation to that animal if by the exercise of reasonable care and supervision in respect of that animal he could have prevented the commission or omission of such act.

Implications and Legal Proceedings

The owner was arrested and criminal charges laid in terms of the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962 at the Bothasig South African Police Service (SAPS), where the owner was detained. The puppy was seized for a thorough veterinary examination, ensuring his well-being and documenting the extent of his injuries for legal purposes.

Chief Inspector Jaco Pieterse emphasized the gravity of such offences, stating, “We wish to remind the public that no one is above the law, and those that think it is legal to crop ears will be arrested and charged for animal cruelty. Ear cropping and tail docking is illegal and a criminal offence.”

Upholding Animal Rights

This case highlights the ongoing battle against animal cruelty and the importance of community vigilance. The SPCA continues to advocate for the enforcement of animal rights laws and urges the public to report any suspicious activities. It is through collective efforts that we can protect animals from unnecessary suffering and uphold the standards of care and respect they deserve.

How to Help and Report Animal Cruelty

The SPCA remains dedicated to protecting animal welfare and relies on public support and vigilance. If you witness any form of animal cruelty or want to report suspicious activities, please contact our Inspectorate Control room at 021 700 4158/9, email inspectorate@spca-ct.co.za, or send a WhatsApp message to 021 700 4140. All reports are handled with the utmost confidentiality.

American Bully Owner Arrested for Ear Cropping

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