SPCA appeals for funds to fight inhumane exports of sheep, cattle

AN URGENT application to stop a live sheep export to Kuwait is expected to be heard in the Grahamstown High Court tomorrow.

The application by the National Council of SPCAs follows the live export of around 60 000 sheep by sea to the Middle East in October last year, for which the organisation said it had lodged complaints against several groups, including the Department of Agriculture, for animal abuse.

The NSPCA this week said it was made aware that there were 70 000 sheep at a feedlot in the Eastern Cape.

“It has come to light that other exporters wish to export live cattle by sea to the likes of Cambodia. The voyage is even longer than that of the Kuwait exports, it exceeds 21 days,” said senior inspector Grace De Lange.

“This case is not only important for this shipment of sheep, but for all the animals destined for this harrowing journey to various countries around the globe – we simply cannot allow the perpetuation and growth of this cruel and brutal trade,” she said.

The Department of Agriculture is cited as a main respondent in tomorrow’s case.

It did not respond to requests for comment yesterday.

Seasoned lawyer advocate Gerrie Nel will be leading the NSPCA’s team in court, along with advocates

Phyllis Vorster and Gustav Weich.

“Conditions on board the Al Shuwaikh in October 2019 included dangerously high ammonia levels on some of the enclosed decks, widespread diarrhoea, with much of it falling into the feed and water troughs, sheep in respiratory distress, together with other serious welfare concerns. On the dock and feedlot, animals were treated in an inhumane manner, and attempts were made to load sick, injured and lame animals on the vessel. These sentient beings meant nothing to the handlers and exporters,” the NSPCA said.

“The costs incurred thus far have been exorbitant and the matter is far from over. The motion will be heard in Grahamstown in the Eastern Cape, so travelling costs, as well as legal costs are placing huge pressure on the NSPCA’s resources.

“We appeal to caring citizens to assist the NSPCA with this landmark case. Let us stand together against this abhorrent suffering.”