The National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) has raised concerns about a Johannesburg business sourcing donkey skins for export to East Asia, following an investigation by one of its inspectors.
Image: Joburg Etc
The investigation began after the organisation became aware of an advertisement seeking salted donkey skins for export.
According to the NSPCA, Inspector Kabelo traced the business and met with one of its directors, who confirmed that the company was sourcing donkey skins for overseas markets.
Although no donkeys or skins were found on the premises during the visit, the inspector issued the company with a warning and reported the matter to the Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (GDARD).
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The NSPCA said the donkey skin trade has been linked to donkey theft and illegal, inhumane slaughter, raising concerns about animal welfare and the impact on communities that rely on donkeys for their livelihoods.
The NSPCA also added that the advertisement featured a photograph of a relaxed, curious donkey, but warned that such imagery does not reflect the welfare concerns associated with the wider trade.
The organisation reiterated that animals are sentient beings and that businesses keeping or using animals have a responsibility to treat them with compassion and respect.
The NSPCA said it would continue monitoring the Johannesburg business and other companies involved in similar activities.
The organisation has urged members of the public who are concerned about the treatment of an animal to contact their local SPCA or the NSPCA.
Joburg Etc previously shared this article.
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