Anger over dead dog court ruling

Published Feb 18, 2014

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Durban - Pet lovers have taken to Facebook to express their anger after a man who pleaded guilty to killing his dog, was let off with just a warning.

A week ago, Siya Mbhanjwa killed his dog with a wooden pole and then buried it in a shallow grave in his backyard.

He pleaded guilty to the charge – cruelty to animals – in the Pinetown Magistrate’s Court on Thursday. He was let off with a warning.

Kloof SPCA spokeswoman, Barbara Laubscher, said the justice system had failed animal rights.

“It is concerning to think that an act of cruelty can be dismissed with such ease. What kind of message does this send out to the community? The Animals Protection Act is legislation put together for the voiceless,” Laubscher said.

The SPCA Facebook page highlighted the public’s anger at the court’s decision.

Many comments said karma would take its course, while others said the justice system did not care about animal welfare. Rosemary Hunter said he should have received a fine or community service.

Maria Martin Smith suggested that he should have been made to do community work at an animal shelter, cleaning cages and feeding, to see how wonderful animals are to bond with.

Jacqui Prinsloo said the magistrate had not considered the seriousness of the “cruel barbaric incident”. More than 225 people commented and the incident was shared 309 times on Facebook.

Daily News

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