With the recent attack of Nicki Brighton by five dogs, the SPCA has been inundated with calls regarding dogs causing a problem on the road.

The SPCA does not have a mandate to deal with this problem, as it falls within the ambit of the local Municipality. The animals are termed Nuisance animals in the By-Laws.

The SPCA has a Small Animal Pound Agreement with the local Municipality to house and care for stray dogs only, we are paid by the Municipality for this service. This agreement does not include cats as they are difficult to confine. It also does not cover the catching of stray dogs. Unless a stray is confined the SPCA will not go out, trying to catch a dog running on the road is a waste of time, fuel and vehicle wear and tear.

We work with the Municipality to resolve the issue of problem dogs. The Municipality has to engage with the owner, the animals are either surrended to the SPCA or are housed for a specific period of time, to give the owner the opportunity to mend the fence. The owner is responsible for the Boarding fee.

If you own a dog it is your responsibility to ensure that your property is adequately fenced to keep the animal confined. It should not be able to escape and harass the public. It must also be noted that should a dog attack a person, another dog under control or cause a motor vehicle accident, the owner is responsible for all costs incurred. The Court can also impose a prison sentence or a fine. They can also make an order whereby the owner will not be allowed to own any dog, for a period of time.

As to livestock roaming the street destroying gardens, causing a danger to road users, this is also a matter for the Municipality. Each Municipality should have both a Small and Large Animal Pound, the SPCA cannot assist with the impounding of livestock as we do not have the facilities.

Should you experience a problem with dogs on the road, we suggest that you contact both the Municipality and the SPCA. We can then record the complaint for future reference as in the recent case. The Municipality can be contacted on 033 2399216 email seniorsup.office@umngeni.gov.za

Dudu