A couple from the town Winnie Mandela (formerly Brandfort), have been sentenced to six months’ direct imprisonment.
Paul and Doortjie Kruger were sentenced to six months in prison and fined R3,000 for their shocking neglect of twelve dogs, leading to severe health issues.
The incident dates back more than three years when National Senior Inspector Duan Matthee, then working at the Bloemfontein SPCA, responded to a complaint of abuse and neglect.
Upon arrival, Matthee discovered twelve toy Pomeranian and Yorkshire Terrier dogs living in horrific conditions. "Every single dog was suffering from some sort of disease or illness," Inspector Matthee reported.
Matthee's inspection revealed that the dogs were infested with parasites, underweight, and suffering from chronic pain. One of the dogs showed signs of heart failure, while others had severe skin conditions and dental issues.
The Krugers initially refused Inspector Matthee entry to their property, but he returned with a warrant and requested proof of veterinary care, which the couple could not provide.
Matthee decided to seize all twelve dogs, though Doortjie Kruger attempted to obstruct the rescue by opening the dogs' cages in a bid to release them.
Fortunately, Matthee was able to safely remove all the animals, and they were transported to the Bloemfontein SPCA for treatment.
Inspector Matthee, who now works with the NSPCA, continued to pursue the case. In September 2024, the court finalised the case, handing down the sentence due to the Krugers' extreme cruelty, particularly as Doortjie Kruger had a previous animal cruelty charge from 2016.
The NSPCA praised the outcome, stating, "Direct imprisonment for animal cruelty is increasingly rare in South Africa, and we are incredibly proud of Inspector Matthee for pursuing this case to closure. It is yet another victory in the fight against animal cruelty."
The Mercury