A recent case of alleged animal cruelty and obstruction came to light when the Cape of Good Hope SPCA received a complaint concerning dogs suffering from severe skin conditions on a property. The dogs were also used for breeding.
Inspector Werner Taljaard was assigned to investigate the matter. Upon his initial visit, the occupant of the property refused entry, demanding that the Inspector return with a warrant from the Court. Following due process, a warrant was obtained the following day from the Wynberg Magistrates Court, and Inspector Taljaard, accompanied by the City of Cape Town Law Enforcement, returned to the property to execute the warrant and inspect the conditions of the dogs.
The situation escalated when the occupant and his wife obstructed entry to the property, arguing vehemently from within the property and initially refusing to open the gate. They were informed that their actions were criminal, potentially warranting arrest. The couple relented only when the officers prepared to scale the wall to gain entry to the property.
Inside, tensions remained high as the occupant aggressively disputed the Inspector’s concerns about the dogs’ health. The registered owner of the dogs, who arrived later, also joined the confrontation and could not provide a permit required by the City of Cape Town for breeding with dogs.
During the inspection, another resident made attempts to hide the dogs inside the house in an effort to obstruct Inspector Taljaard from removing them. Law Enforcement swiftly intervened, preventing further attempts to conceal the dogs and obstruction of Inspector Taljaard’s duties. This defiance led to the arrest of both the occupant and the owner for obstruction and attempting to defeat the ends of justice.
All three dogs were seized and taken to the Cape of Good Hope SPCA, where they were examined by a veterinarian. The veterinarian confirmed the dogs were victims of neglect, suffering from chronic skin conditions.
A case has been opened with the Kirstenhof South African Police Service (SAPS) for obstruction and animal cruelty. The accused are expected to make their second court appearance on 28 August 2024, at the Wynberg Magistrates Court. If convicted, they face the possibility of a fine of up to R40,000 or up to 12 months imprisonment.
Chief Inspector Jaco Pieterse emphasized the commitment of the SPCA to protect animals, stating, “It is a criminal offence to obstruct an SPCA Inspector. We will not tolerate any form of obstruction; our Inspectors are empowered by statutory powers and have a solemn duty to protect animals.”
The public is also reminded that, according to the City of Cape Town Animal Keeping By-Law, it is illegal to keep any dog or cat over the age of six months unsterilised. The SPCA remains vigilant and dedicated to the welfare of all animals and urges the community to comply with the law to prevent such unfortunate incidents.
