Earlier this week Inspector Lwazi Ntungele confiscated a dog in Rocklands, Mitchells Plain. The dog named Luna was found living in dire conditions, anchored by a static, 1-meter chain. This wasn’t just any chain – it was thick, heavy, and, alarmingly, wrapped directly around Luna’s neck. The risks were imminent; such a chain could eventually become embedded in the dog’s skin, leading to grave injuries.
The living conditions were nothing short of dreadful. Luna’s surroundings were drenched, dirty, and unsanitary. There was no sign of drinking water nearby. The space in which she was confined was so restricted that she had barely any room to move.
Warnings Fell on Deaf Ears
Despite the owner receiving three warnings to fix Luna’s living conditions, this fell on deaf ears. This clear negligence and disregard for Luna’s well-being prompted Inspector Ntungele to obtain a court order from the Mitchells Plain Magistrates Court, which resulted in the confiscation of Luna.
As a consequence of these heinous acts, the owner now faces charges in terms of the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962.
Keeping dogs on short chains or ropes is a common trend in Cape Town.
After Luna’s rescue, she was taken to the Cape of Good Hope SPCA where the veterinary team immediately attended to her. A routine scan for a microchip unveiled a surprising revelation. Luna had been microchipped, and the registered contact led us to her former owner – the individual who had originally given her away.
Free-To-Good-Home
This tragic situation underscores the perils of giving animals away without stringent checks and monitoring. Luna’s case is a chilling reminder of how a seemingly well-intentioned “free-to-good-home” offer can gravely backfire, placing animals in dire situations.
