Johannesburg - Eighteen people have been arrested for their involvement in illegal dog fighting in Tsakane, on the East Rand, the NSPCA said on Monday.
Fourteen pit bulls were rescued in the raid on Sunday, said the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA).
“Violent and organised dog fighting was in progress when an NSPCA task team arrived,” said spokeswoman Espe Kotze.
She said she was shocked at the reality and at the terrible violence experienced by the dogs.
“The dogs often die of blood loss, shock, dehydration, exhaustion, or even days after the fight they very seldom receive proper veterinary attention for their injuries.”
She said none of the dogs rescued on Sunday night were stolen pets. Each dog had been bred for fighting.
The 18 people were expected to appear in court on Monday.
Sapa