The debate over the dangers of keeping aggressive animals and their devastating effects on humans and other animals is long overdue, according to the National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) which is currently exploring the potential for regulation to further protect vulnerable people and animals.
These major concerns came about when the Sizwe Kupelo Foundation started a “Ban the Breed” petition, relating to pit bull terriers, after a 10-year-old boy in Gqeberha was mauled to death by his family’s pit bull.
However, thereafter a counterpetition in support of pit bull owners was started.
In response, the City of Cape Town said legally, the City cannot ban a specific breed.
While seemingly the “Ban the Breed” petition may appear to be outrageous, especially to pit bull owners, however, upon careful reflection, the petition advocates for the protection of people and responsible pet ownership, according to the NSPCA.
Responsible pet ownership
Keshvi Nair, public relations officer of the NSPCA, told TygerBurger the NSPCA has never stated that they are in support of the banning of any breed of dog.
“What the NSPCA fully supports, and what every responsible citizen should support, is the call for stronger regulation and control with regards to the keeping and breeding of dangerous or aggressive animals and power breeds.”
Nair said the NSPCA cares deeply for the safety and protection of people and animals.
“Nobody deserves to be a victim of an animal attack.”
Pitbull scams
A R1 500 “reward” offered from an unverified government Twitter account is a scam, Nair warns.
“The post places pit bulls and their owners at risk. If you have come across the post, please report it.”
He furthermore warns that people are impersonating SPCA personnel and demanding that people hand their pit bulls over to them.
“The SPCA is not going door-to-door and demanding that people hand over their pit bulls. Please be vigilant and safe. Do not hand your animals over to unknown people.”
