CAPE TOWN – A disturbing incident occurred on Sunday, 17 September 2023, when a heavily pregnant pony was found pulling a cart shortly before going into labour and collapsing on the side of the road. Thanks to prompt reports from concerned community members, Inspectors from the Cape of Good Hope SPCA were on the scene within minutes.
Upon arrival in Hillcrest Heights, SPCA Inspectors found the mare and her newborn foal on the side of the road. In an apparent attempt to obstruct justice, the suspects attempted to conceal the cart to prevent our Inspectors from realising the horse had been used for working purposes.
In terms of the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962 and the City of Cape Town Animal Keeping By Law it is unlawful to allow any animal to work that is not fit for work; this includes putting heavily pregnant animals to work.
The owner will now be facing criminal charges.
Both the mare and her foal, along with the cart, have been seized and taken into the care of the Cape of Good Hope SPCA Horse Care Unit.
We have named the mare Stella and her little filly Rose.
Rose signifies the beauty and unexpected miracle that bloomed next to the road, much like how a rose might unexpectedly blossom in an unexpected place.
“Forcing an animal to work while heavily pregnant is not just cruel, it’s inhumane. We will see to it that the owners are held accountable under the full extent of the law.” said Chief Inspector Jaco Pieterse of the Cape of Good Hope SPCA
Our team extends heartfelt appreciation to the City of Cape Town Law Enforcement: Animal Control Unit for their invaluable assistance during this operation.
The Cape of Good Hope SPCA remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all animals in our community. We urge the public to remain vigilant and report any form of animal abuse.
Donate NOW to help Stella & Rose to be nurtured to good health
We are appealing to our donors to please make a donation to assist us in nurturing Stella & Rose to good health. It is extremely expensive to care for horses and we need your support.
The SPCA receives no funding from the government and relies on donations from the public in order to function.
EFT donations:
Bank: Standard Bank
Branch: 025309 / 051001 (internet banking)
Account Number: 071832858
SWIFT: SBZA ZA JJ
Account Type: Cheque
Account Name: The Cape of Good Hope SPCA
Beneficiary Reference: HCU & Your Name and Email or Phone number
Send proof of payment to: inspmanager@spca-ct.co.za
Your continued dedication, ongoing support, and passion for protecting the lives of animals is what makes us successful. Thank you for everything you do to help make this a better world for animals.
