Latest news with #AnimalsProtectionAct71
IOL News
5 days ago
- IOL News
CapeNature investigates tragic death of young leopard caught in traps
Generic Leopard. Image: Supplied CapeNature is investigating the death of a young leopard that was caught in gin traps near Heidelberg. CapeNature said a case has been registered with Saps after the conservation authority was called to assist in a rescue operation on July 2 in the Heidelberg area, near the World Heritage Site of Boosmansbos. Officials discovered a young 13kg male leopard, estimated to be around six months old, ensnared in two gin traps set adjacent to each other. One front paw and one hind leg were caught. 'Despite the best efforts of the rescue team, the leopard did not survive,' CapeNature said. 'The incident is a reminder of the legal implications and ethical responsibilities surrounding wildlife.' Leopards are a listed Protected Species in terms of the Western Cape Nature Conservation Ordinance 19 of 1974. The species is also listed under CITES Appendix I. It is illegal to hunt a leopard without a permit. The use of any trap to hunt a leopard, including cage traps, gin traps, or leg-hold traps, remains illegal in the absence of a permit and constitutes a criminal offence. Any form of cruelty or suffering inflicted on an animal is also a criminal offence in terms of the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962. 'CapeNature understands the challenges faced by landowners and farmers, particularly concerning livestock management and is working together with the agricultural community and partners to implement effective, non-lethal solutions for preventing livestock loss. Solutions are always possible through dialogue,' said CapeNature CEO Dr Ashley Naidoo. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad Loading 'The tragic death of this young leopard highlights the importance of adhering to the laws protecting our wildlife, and we urge the public to report any illegal activities.' Leopards are a cornerstone species of the Western Cape's ecosystem, playing an important role in maintaining biodiversity and ecological balance. As apex predators, they contribute to the health and resilience of the environment. Despite their critical importance, leopards have already lost 75% of their historical distribution area, CapeNature said. They are currently classified as Vulnerable on the Red List of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). In the Langeberg Area, leopards are known to have very large home ranges, indicative of their need for expansive, undisturbed habitats. Contrary to common misconceptions, less than 1% of their diet consists of livestock, indicating that most of their food comes from wild prey, CapeNature said. In a separate event in April this year, a leopard attacked livestock on a farm close to Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve, resulting in one calf being killed and another injured. The area has a history of leopard presence due to its proximity to mountainous terrain. The adult male, estimated to be around seven years old and in good condition, was successfully captured. Later, under the supervision of CapeNature and a veterinarian, the leopard was released back onto the same property and fitted with a tracking collar to monitor its movements. The leopard has not attacked any livestock again since being collared. CapeNature encourages continued engagement from affected landowners, farmers, and the public to promote preventative mitigation, ethical and coordinated wildlife management practices. Cape Times
IOL News
6 days ago
- IOL News
Injured pony rescued after dramatic chase by SPCA officer in Mitchells Plain
The pony was located in a make-shift stable in the heart of the settlement. Image: Cape of Good Hope SPCA A routine day on the job turned into a high-speed pursuit through the streets of Mitchells Plain when an SPCA officer uncovered a disturbing case of animal cruelty and refused to back down. While conducting wildlife collections in the area on Monday, Cape of Good Hope SPCA Wildlife Rescue Officer Stephen Benjamin encountered a cart being pulled by a pony, carrying three occupants and various pieces of vehicle scrap. Concerned about the animal's condition, Benjamin stopped the cart to conduct a welfare inspection. Spokesperson Belinda Abraham said from the outset, the occupants were uncooperative and obstructive. "On closer inspection, Officer Benjamin discovered that the pony had severe wounds on his side, consistent with injuries caused by an ill-fitted harness and cart rubbing against the animal's skin. "As Officer Benjamin began documenting the evidence, the three men suddenly jumped back onto the cart and attempted to flee, whipping the pony to force it forward. "Officer Benjamin immediately contacted the SPCA Control Room for assistance. Without delay, the City of Cape Town's law enforcement and metro police were called for urgent assistance. Officer Benjamin followed the cart as it made its way through Westridge and into the Sweet Home informal settlement." SPCA officer rescues an injured pony after a dramatic chase in Mitchells Plain. Image: Supplied / SPCA She explained that the metro police were the first to respond and attempted to intercept the fleeing suspects. However, the suspects dangerously veered into oncoming traffic and fled off-road, evading the patrol vehicle. "City law enforcement arrived shortly after, and one of the suspects was apprehended next to the road. The suspect was aggressive, threatened Officer Benjamin, and attempted to assault him by throwing rocks. "Determined to rescue the injured pony, the team conducted a thorough search of the Sweet Home area. "It was later discovered that the suspects had attempted to conceal the pony in a stable deep within the informal settlement to hide the animal from authorities. Despite their efforts to evade justice, the team successfully located the pony and immediately seized him. He was transported to the SPCA Horse Care Unit for veterinary treatment and safekeeping." The arrested suspect was taken to Philippi SAPS and charged with obstruction and attempting to evade justice. The remaining two suspects are still at large, but the SPCA is working with authorities to bring them to justice. 'The SPCA will not tolerate any abuse towards animals, and will not tolerate any person wanting to obstruct our Inspectors and wanting to evade justice,' said Chief Inspector Jaco Pieterse. In terms of the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962, it is a criminal offence to put any animal to work while it is injured or physically unfit to perform any work. It is also illegal to obstruct an SPCA Inspector or to conceal an animal under investigation. Each of these offences carries a penalty of up to R40 000 or 12 months' imprisonment, and a criminal record. Cape Times
The South African
20-06-2025
- The South African
Surviving to thriving: SPCA shares heartwarming update on Bobby
The SPCA has shared a heartwarming update on Bobby, a dog rescued after it was spotted in a viral TikTok video earlier this month. Images of the emaciated dog – who had been forced to eat plastic to survive – left many South Africans enraged and calling for action. Johannesburg content creator Sasha Tshiamo and the dog's owners are now facing charges of animal cruelty. Earlier this month, a TikTok video featuring Sasha Tshiamo dancing was posted on the X platform. The video quickly went viral because of an emaciated dog in the background. The animal's ribcage was clearly visible, and it appeared lethargic. Following a nationwide call, the SPCA stepped in, removing the dog – affectionately nicknamed 'Bobby' – from her shocking living conditions. The animal activists revealed that both the dog's owner – who willingly surrendered the animal – and the influencer were now facing animal cruelty charges. In a social media post, the SPCA shared an update about Bobby, who appeared to be thriving under their care. In a video clip, brave Bobby is seen wearing a winter jersey as she frolics in a garden and happily poses for pictures. The heartwarming caption read: 'One sad video, one brave dog, one second chance. 'Bobby's story didn't end in the background – it's only just begun! From a shadow of herself to a brave and beautiful girl. It turns out that all Bobby needed was a little love and some treats.' View this post on Instagram A post shared by NSPCA (@ According to the SPCA, Bobby will soon be up for adoption. The SPCA has repeatedly warned the public that animal abusers can be criminally charged under the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962. The act – which was established to prevent the cruelty of animals – stipulates that those found guilty can face a fine or imprisonment. The SPCA rescued a starving dog that captured the hearts of South Africans. Content creator Sasha Tshiamo is now facing animal cruelty charges over the viral video. Images via X: @nspca_sa Offenders could also face a denial of ownership – preventing them from owning animals – as well as a criminal conviction. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 . Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp , Facebook , X, and Bluesky for the latest news.
The South African
09-06-2025
- The South African
Happy ending! SPCA rescues starving dog seen in TikTok
The national SPCA rescued an emaciated dog – nicknamed 'Bobby' – that was featured in a TikTok video last week. The animal was removed from its owners following a national outcry on social media. Content creator Sasha Tshiamo was the woman seen in the viral video – however, she insisted that the animal did not belong to her nor was it her 'responsibility'. Last week, a TikTok video featuring Sasha Tshiamo dancing was posted on the X platform. The video quickly went viral because of an emaciated dog in the background. The animal's ribcage was clearly visible, and it appeared lethargic. After scores of South Africans shared their concerns, the SPCA confirmed that it would be investigating the incident. It later updated the public that the starving dog – or 'Bobby' – had been rescued and removed from its home. It posted on X: 'Our Special Projects Unit jumped into action, and Bobby was taken in. She is now safe'. The SPCA has rescued an emaciated dog spotted in a viral video. the dog – nicknamed 'Bobby' was forced to eat plastic to survive. Images via X: @nspca_sa SPCA shared pics of the female dog, who appeared to have given birth to young puppies. They said of 'Bobby': 'She is the most lovable dog, handing out kisses to everyone since the moment she arrived! Forced to eat plastic to survive, Bobby was found severely malnourished, suffering from fly strike, and covered in ticks and fleas'. It continued: 'She's on a long road to recovery, but once healthy, she'll be sterilised and available to the loving and caring home she deserves'. View this post on Instagram A post shared by NSPCA (@ The SPCA has yet to reveal if Bobby's owners will face criminal charges for animal abuse. Under the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962, offenders can face a fine or imprisonment. They could also face a denial of ownership – preventing them from owning animals – as well as a criminal conviction. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 . Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp , Facebook , X, and Bluesky for the latest news.
The South African
06-06-2025
- The South African
SPCA investigating starving dog in influencer's viral video
The National SPCA are investigating an influencer's viral TikTok video, which featured a notably starving dog in it. However, the woman – Sasha Tshiamo – claims she is not responsible for the animal. On the X platform, a video of influencer Sasha Tshiamo quickly went viral. But the TikTok had nothing to do with the content creator's flair for fashion or curvy figure. Instead, an emaciated dog in the background of the clip had social media users up in arms. The animal's ribcage was clearly visible, and it appeared lethargic. Many South Africans called on animal rights activists like the SPCA to intervene. @Zakhele27520120: '@NSPCA_SA Please, that dog is suffering there, do something 💔' @Nicole_Barlow1: 'Please, do the humane thing and surrender the dog to the nearest @NSPCA_SA. This situation is truly appalling. The blatant cruelty is unimaginable…😡🤬🤬' Others added: @Bar1Koekemoer: 'Your dog is starving. You are a despicable human being.' @JLerubako40: 'It is said that how a person treats their domestic animals says a lot about what type of person they are. Speaking to The South African, the SPCA confirmed that they were investigating the incident and would inspect the property where the dog was seen. While the SPCA has promised a thorough investigation, the influence claimed that she was not responsible for the animal. Sasha Tshiamo shared on an Instagram Story, ' I don't know if I must laugh or cry, guys. That's not my dog.' Under her TikTok video, a follower appealed to her to feed the dog. She clapped back: 'It's not my responsibility.' The SPCA has repeatedly warned the public that animal abusers can be criminally charged under the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962. The act – which was established to prevent the cruelty of animals – stipulates that those found guilty can face a fine or imprisonment. Offenders could also face a denial of ownership – preventing them from owning animals – as well as a criminal conviction. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 . Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp , Facebook , X, and Bluesky for the latest news.
