Animal welfare inspectors have removed 16 dogs and two fish from a property in Balvenie following reports of suspected animal hoarding, with one man arrested during the execution of a court-authorised warrant, according to IOL reports.
Image used for illustrative purpose [not affiliated with post]/Anoir Chafik/Unsplash
Inspectors said they acted on a complaint and found animals living in overcrowded, unsanitary conditions. According to officials, the yard was cluttered with rubble, debris and rotting matter, leaving little space for the animals to move freely.
“The environment was not fit for animals,” inspectors said, adding that dogs were found lying on and between piles of rubble. Water available to the animals was reportedly dirty, and the property was described as resembling a storage site rather than a suitable living space.
Far beyond the legal limit
In terms of the City of Cape Town’s Animal Keeping By-law, a residential property is generally permitted to keep a maximum of four dogs. Inspectors counted 16 dogs on the premises – four times the legal limit – and alleged that none of the animals had been sterilised, which also contravenes the by-law.
Officials said repeated notices and warnings were issued to the occupants, instructing them to clean the property, reduce the number of animals and obtain veterinary care. Despite being given time to comply, inspectors said follow-up visits showed no meaningful improvement.
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Warrant granted, arrest made
Inspector Lee Prins subsequently approached the Goodwood Magistrates’ Court for a warrant under the Animals Protection Act. Once granted, inspectors, accompanied by the City’s Law Enforcement: Animal Control Unit, carried out the operation.
During a final search of the house, inspectors allege they discovered the owner’s father hiding under a bed while holding a puppy, which they described as an attempt to conceal the animal from authorities. Officials said this constitutes an offence under Section 8(4) of the Animals Protection Act. The man was arrested and taken to Elsies River SAPS, where a criminal case has been opened and is under investigation.
Animals now in care
In addition to the dogs, two fish were removed from what inspectors described as an extremely dirty tank. All animals are now in the care of the SPCA, where they are undergoing veterinary assessment and treatment.
Officials stressed that the removal of animals is always a last resort and follows efforts to achieve voluntary compliance.
“Let us be clear: this was not about punishment. It was about protection,” inspectors said.
“Animal hoarding is not compassion. It is control without care. It creates suffering, not rescue.”
The property owners were approached for comment, but had not responded at the time of publication.
Residents who suspect animal cruelty or hoarding are encouraged to report their concerns to the relevant authorities to enable early intervention.
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