The Record will note from information given to them that my mother genuinely believed that her opposite neighbour was neglecting his dog.
Initially Taryn (Roodepoort SPCA inspector) indicated that she shared my mother’s concerns, yet her failure to record this incident was, in my mind, unprofessional.
Ms Cattanach stated to me, in crude words, that my husband was a terrible lawyer – it was quite shocking. This is not the way to talk to members of the public even if you disagree with them. Surely a person in her position as manager should be more tactful. She represents the public face of the Roodepoort SPCA. In my opinion, her crass statement reflects poor judgement on her side. Ms Cattanach represents an organisation that depends on public funding and as a member of the public I will think twice before I support her organisation again.
To add insult to injury I refer you to the letter I received from Mr Pieterse. I since have found out that the Metro Police (JMPD) apparently only remove dead animals.
I confirm that Ms Myburgh, a reporter at the Record, requested that I place my opinion regarding the SPCA/ West Rand Pet and Bird Farm saga in writing. What I can confirm is that the Roodepoort SPCA’s court order only enabled the organisation to confiscate animals and subject them to a veterinarian’s inspection. Apparently, if there are sufficient grounds, criminal charges will be laid against the owner of the West Rand Pet and Bird Farm. I will refrain from further comment and I believe that ultimately justice will prevail.
I detest a trial by media and believe that proper judicial procedures should be followed.
I reside in Roodepoort and am an avid Record reader. I will continue to support the newspaper.
The comments about the mother and allegedly negligent dog owner are still being investigated by the Record. Some evidence was shared with regard to these claims. Ms Cattanach’s comments follow the resident’s husband’s comment that the Roodepoort SPCA has a responsibility with regard to the claims mentioned. The resident mentions that the JMPD can only remove dead animals following her personal investigation into the matter. The Record can not comment on the letters between the resident and the head of Roodepoort SPCA, Jaco Pieterse at the moment. Please see both the newspaper and online website of the Record for further developments in both matters — Mathilde Myburgh, journalist.
