SPCA gives clarity about pellet guns
The Roodepoort SPCA has issued a statement to clarify the issue of using pellet guns against animals.
The Roodepoort SPCA has issued a statement to clarify the issue of using pellet guns against animals.
The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has had concerns about the use of pellet guns to punish animals for ‘trespassing’ on properties as well as shooting animals for fun. Despite air rifles not requiring licences, the SPCA reiterated that pellet guns may not be discharged in built-up areas.
The organisation states, “The Roodepoort SPCA believes that the use of a pellet gun on any animal, including on any wild bird is a violation of the Animals Protection Act No 71 of 1962. There has already been a criminal conviction of a person in KwaZulu-Natal for using a pellet gun on an animal. Advocate John Welch, former Deputy Attorney General of the then Transvaal Province, has stated that the law makes no difference between discharging a pellet gun and a real firearm in suburban areas. ‘Do either and you go to jail’ was his message.”
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The SPCA further asks the public to report anyone using pellet guns in urban areas.
“If you witness or know of anyone using a pellet gun on an animal or bird – report it. Advise the Roodepoort SPCA via the all-hours number on 011 672 0448 as quickly as you can, giving as much information as possible. A criminal case can then be opened against the person/s responsible in terms of the Animals Protection Act 7 of 1972 as well as charging the person/s with discharging a pellet gun in an urban area, if this is the case.
Your swift action may be instrumental in saving an animal or animals a great deal of suffering, which is worthy in itself.”
Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at roodepoortrecord@caxton.co.za (remember to include your contact details) or phone us on 011 955 1130.
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