The Cape of Good Hope SPCA has once again stepped in to rescue a suffering animal after receiving a cruelty report on Friday, 11 February. The case involved a dog who had allegedly been struck by a vehicle and left without any veterinary care by his owner.
Inspector Elani Graham and Cadet Inspector Lwazi Ntungele immediately began investigating. Despite issuing several formal warnings and offering assistance, the SPCA was met with refusal. The owner was given ample time and opportunity to comply, yet he repeatedly declined veterinary help for the injured dog.
In her sworn statement to the Cape Town Magistrates’ Court, Inspector Graham detailed the severity of the situation: the dog had been run over, sustaining significant injuries that required urgent medical attention. She emphasized that the animal was suffering needlessly, and that the owner’s refusal constituted cruelty in terms of Section 2(1)(a) and (e) of the Animals Protection Act No. 71 of 1962.
“It is cruel and inhumane to treat any animal in such a manner,” Graham said. “The only way to prevent further suffering is to confiscate the dog so that he can receive the veterinary treatment he desperately needs.”
The court granted an order authorizing the immediate seizure of the dog. When SPCA inspectors and police officers arrived at the property, they were met with silence. The owner ignored knocks on the door and phone calls, even as members of the Dunoon community confirmed he was inside deliberately avoiding them. Determined to rescue the animal, officials gained access to the house and discovered the injured dog hidden under a bed.
The dog was promptly confiscated and transported to the Cape of Good Hope SPCA veterinary hospital, where he is finally receiving the medical care he had been denied for so long. The SPCA reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing justice for animals and reminded the public that neglect and cruelty will not be tolerated.