The underground activity of dog fighting in areas surrounding Roodepoort has forced the Roodepoort/ Krugersdorp SPCA to open up about the scourge.
This practice, which involves encouraging power-breed dogs such as pit bulls to be brutal attackers, has been rife in areas such as Delarey, Florida, Maraisburg, Azaadville, Kagiso, Munsieville, Davidsonville, Krugersdorp West, Soweto and Witpoortjie, according to the SPCA manager and senior inspector Mandy Mattanach. “The poorer areas seem to be plagued by dog-fighting activities,” Mandy said.
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She revealed that their hospital treats bite wounds on a daily basis, with most patients having sustained their injuries during dog fights. The severe injuries include crushed and broken bones, ripped flesh, deep puncture wounds, torn muscle and broken teeth.
“The majority of our pending court cases are dog-fighting related,” she confirmed. While a dog is known to be a human’s best friend, it is evident that the owners of dogs intended for fighting have cruel intentions and alter the animals’ normal loving behaviour.
However, not all rightful owners can be blamed as some power-breed dogs are stolen and used by the perpetrators to stage ring fights.
Mandy said owners of power-breed dogs are encouraged to keep their dogs safe at the back of their properties. “The SPCA does not respond to animal theft cases. The SPCA works with the Animal Protection Act and animal theft is not part of the Act.”
She added that owners are also encouraged to open theft cases with the police, although it’s never a pleasant experience for complainants. “They [police] refuse to register and investigate cases relating to animals theft, even when the owner knows who has stolen the dog,” Mandy stated.
Sergeant Mitla Dikolomela, the Florida Police spokesperson said the station has not received any reports of dog theft and/ or dog fighting in their area.
The National Council of SPCAs offers a reward of up to R15 000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those involved in dog fighting.
According to the NSPCA, it is a criminal offence in terms of South African law to be involved in any manner with the fighting of animals or to own, train, breed or keep an animal used for fighting. It is also a crime to manage or own a property for the purpose of dog fighting and to watch dog fights, even as a spectator.
Fines up to R300 000 or imprisonment of up to 15 years, a criminal record and denial of animal ownership are penalties that can be faced when convicted of being involved in dog fighting.
To report dog fighting, send an email to specialinvestigations@nspca.co.za or call 011 907 3590 or visit https://www.nspca.co.za.
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