SPCA WORKS WITH POLICE ON ANIMAL CASES

The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) responds to around 20 cases of suspected neglect or animal abuse in a week.

This was confirmed by SPCA co-chair, Seema Deo. She highlighted the number of animal cruelty cases like owners not taking sick animals for treatment.

Ms Deo said social media was helping SPCA raise awareness on the existence of animal abuse.

She said cruelty cases were reported to the Police.

“We work with the Police on this issue, but unfortunately, complainants often refuse to talk to the Police if they have witnessed someone deliberately abusing animals,” she said.

Ms Deo said the law under animal protection was nothing new and people must be mindful that abusing animals is an offence.

Under Fiji’s Protection of Animals

Act, any person found to be abusing an animal could face a fine of up to $100 or a jail sentence of up to six months. Shreeya Verma