The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to animals is one of the only Animal Welfare Organisations whose inspectors are authorised by the hand of the Magistrate, to operate under the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962 and the Performing Animals Protection Act 24 of 1935.

This allows the Inspectors to investigate the conditions under which any animals are kept and whether the conditions are in accordance with the law. Contravention could result in confiscation of said animals and prosecution of the owner.

Our inspectors have to attend an intensive training course, pass the relevant examinations and do practical and research work, prior to qualifying as an inspector and receiving magisterial authorisation.  The Inspectors deal with prosecution, court cases, cruelty investigations and proactive enforcement, on a daily basis.

There are various different types of cruelty such as:

• Any animal being chained causing the animal suffering.
• Any Animal with no/insufficient food, water or shelter,
• Animal fighting 
• Failure to seek veterinary treatment for any animals in ones control.
• etc.

If in your opinion, the physical and/or emotional well being of any animal is compromised in any way, please do not hesitate to contact our inspectorate department who are more than willing to assist you. On reporting a possible cruelty case, your name is kept confidential and is used solely for our inspectors to contact you with feedback on your complaint.

On reporting a possible cruelty case, the inspector will carry out the inspection. The severity of the case will be assessed and a decision will be made on the course of action.

A warning may be issued instructing the owner to correct the problem or the animal may be immediately removed and criminal charges may be laid against the owner.

The animal in question is then taken to a veterinarian for a full medical examination. If in the opinion of the veterinarian, it would prevent the unnecessary suffering of the animal, the animal will be humanely euthanased.

For other Inspectorate articles click below:

Rescues

Feral Cats

Laws Pertaining to animals