MOSSEL BAY NEWS - A Mossel Bay father (61) and daughter (21) are facing a charge of animal cruelty under the Animal Protection Act after a cross-breed dog with severe neck wounds was found in their care earlier this month.

According to the Garden Route SPCA Mossel Bay branch, it had received a call from a member of the public on 6 March regarding an injured dog with a severe neck wound at a house in Tarka, Mossel Bay. 

The inspector, Themba Malinga, arrived to find the dog on the property. He said the dog's wound was infected, and he could smell it. 

The dog was handed over to the SPCA, which took it to its premises and humanely euthanised it to prevent it from suffering any further.

The Garden Route SPCA's area manager, Cheri Cooke, said the dog's severely infected neck wound was consistent with long-term restraint by chain. 

"Unable to move away from the source of pain, the chain would have continued to cut deeper into his neck over time. No veterinary care was sought at any stage, and he endured ongoing pain and distress," she said.

"By the time the SPCA intervened, he was suffering significantly. The decision to humanely euthanise him was not taken lightly, but was made to bring an end to that suffering.

The wound was reportedly infected and gave off a stench. Photo: Supplied

"While treatment options may exist in some cases, the SPCA does not have the resources to provide ongoing veterinary care for every preventable injury. The responsibility to seek timely treatment rests with the owner.

"This case is not simply one of neglect, it involves prolonged and preventable suffering."

Cooke said in terms of the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962, it is an offence to cause unnecessary suffering or to fail to provide adequate veterinary care.

"Where this happens, the SPCA will act."

The dog had a severe wound around his neck. Photo: Supplied

The SPCA reported the matter to the Da Gamaskop Police Station, and a case was opened. The Southern Cape Police's spokesperson, Warrant Officer Chris Spies, said the father and daughter were taken into police custody afterwards.

"They were later released and warned to appear in court on a later date," he said. 

"This matter is still under investigation, and the docket will be sent to the National Prosecuting Authority for a decision to prosecute or otherwise."

Cooke has urged the public to reach out to the SPCA if they are unable to afford veterinary care. "Help is available - suffering should never be the alternative," she said.

To contact the Garden Route SPCA Mossel Bay branch for help, call 044 693 0824.

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