SPCA inspectors, together with the City of Cape Town’s Animal Control Unit Auxiliary Officers, intervened in two cases of cruelty involving the illegal transport of sheep on Sunday morning.
In the first instance, a trailer was dangerously overloaded with seven sheep, their legs tightly bound, piled on top of one another.
In the second instance, another trailer carried four sheep, also with legs bound – one with a severe, burst, and infected eye injury. The stench was reported to be overwhelming.
Both trailers were in direct violation of the Animals Protection Act, and one driver – who was unlicensed, along with the trailer – was fined by Law Enforcement.
In safe care of SPCA
The sheep were seized by the inspectors and are now in the safe care of the Cape of Good Hope SPCA.
All of the animals were destined for religious slaughter, but cruelty is never justified, no matter the context.
According to the SPCA, transporting animals must comply with the SANS 1488:2014 ‘Humane Transportation of Livestock by Road’, which requires:
- No overloading of trailers
- Non-slip flooring to prevent injury
- Vehicles suitable for the species
- Proper railings and loading ramps
- No tethering of animals
- Separate transport for different species
- Horned and dehorned animals must be transported separately
As per the SPCA, it has a legal and moral duty to act – and we will continue to do so. No animal deserves to suffer.
Any guesses as to why anyone would abuse any animal?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
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