Weakest links chain their pets
Cruel tethering is punishable by law
THE cases are distressing – pets chained so tightly it cuts into their skin or they die by strangulation.
More than 100 cases of pet chaining are investigated by the Durban and Coast SPCA every month, and the cases are tragic, said Lindsey Concer, spokeswoman for the Durban and Coast branch.
“Despite the fact that chaining a dog is illegal, the practice persists in many areas in and around Durban. Our inspectors have investigated 1 342 chaining cases in the last year. This is over 100 per month,” she said.
Most recently, said Concer, the SPCA investigated a case where a dog was attacked by monkeys and because of its tight chain, the dog could not escape.
“Not only was the dog chained, but after the attack the owner left the dog on the chain with no veterinary treatment, which prolonged its suffering. The owner of this dog was taken to court and successfully convicted. He was fined R10 000 and is denied the right to own an animal for three years,” she said.
The law allowed for a fine of up to R60 000 or three years imprisonment, said Concer.
“We are committed to making dog owners aware that chaining is not only punishable by law, but also extremely cruel. Time and again we see cases of chains cutting into and becoming embedded in dogs’ necks, leading to horrific open wounds. In some cases, chained dogs try to escape by jumping over walls or fences and strangle themselves,” she said.
“Imagine the sad existence of a dog that spends day after endless day in one small spot, tethered by a short chain, and never allowed to run around or play. We appeal to compassionate and caring members of the public to report any ill treatment of animals,” she said.
To report cruelty to the Durban and Coast SPCA call: 031 579 6500 or the after hours emergency line: 083 212 6103.