The National Animal Protection Association (NDPA) has removed 21 dogs and seven cats from a property in Trichardt, Mpumalanga. (Photo: NDBV)
The National Animal Protection Association (NDPA) removed 21 dogs and seven cats from a property in Trichardt, Mpumalanga, after the owners ignored two warnings and the Secunda Magistrate’s Court granted a warrant.
The NDBV’s inspectors visited the site in Trichardt for the first time at the beginning of March. This follows a complaint that was received about numerous animals that were apparently in a neglected state.
“When inspectors came to the premises, several animals – including dogs, cats, birds and chickens – were found. Several of these animals showed clear signs of neglect,” says Samantha Stelli, spokesperson for the NDPV.
The cats showed clear symptoms of illness, including discharge from the eyes and breathing problems. Many of the cats were emaciated.
The cats showed clear symptoms of illness, including discharge from the eyes and breathing problems. Many of the cats were emaciated. (Photo: NDBV)
According to Stelli, the condition of the dogs was also worrying.
“Some dogs had skin conditions, others developed large growths. Their nails were unacceptably long and they were thin and weak. These are typical signs of long-term neglect.”
The general condition of the property also raised concerns with inspectors.
“The premises – both inside and outside the house – were covered in excessive excrement. The unhygienic conditions were unacceptable and posed a direct threat to the animals’ health.”
An official warning was subsequently issued in terms of the Animal Protection Act. Despite the warning, the situation did not improve.
“It soon became clear that the welfare problems continued. One of the people on the property even indicated that they had no intention of heeding the warning,” says Stelli.
The NDPV subsequently obtained a warrant and visited the property again on 17 March together with a police officer.
Although some improvements were noted, serious problems persisted.
“A total of 21 dogs were kept in a room and a very small backyard. The conditions were extremely poor. There was excessive feces and urine, dirty bedding and an overwhelming, disgusting smell,” says Stelli.
According to the NDPV, many of the dogs still showed signs of neglect.
“Several dogs were in poor physical condition and had untreated medical conditions. This confirmed that the situation was not adequately handled.
“Seven cats were subsequently taken into the NDBV’s care and require further veterinary assessment and treatment,” says Stelli.
The 21 dogs were also removed and taken to the NDPV for treatment and evaluation.
Criminal action follows
The NDPCA is currently in the process of instituting criminal proceedings.
“The organization is in the process of filing charges in terms of the Animal Protection Act. Veterinary reports are being finalized to support the legal proceedings,” says Stelli.
She emphasizes that this is not an isolated incident.
“Cases involving large numbers of animals and where there is repeated non-compliance remain a serious and persistent problem. In many of these cases, prosecution is the only way to prevent further suffering.”
Stelli says the public plays an important role in the protection of animals.
“Public reporting of neglect is often the only reason we can step in. Without this information, many animals’ suffering would go on unnoticed.
“The NDPCA will continue to act within its mandate to enforce animal welfare legislation and ensure accountability where neglect is identified. We remain committed to protecting animals from abuse and neglect.”