Owner arrested for neglecting 14-year-old German Shepherd in Strand

The Cape of Good Hope SPCA has confirmed that the owner of a 14-year-old German Shepherd was found in a state of extreme neglect in Strand last weekend, has been arrested.

Jessie, who had lived her entire life in a home, was discovered lying motionless in the sand when the Animal Welfare Society (AWS) Helderberg responded to a cruelty complaint. Inspector Prosper Kanengoni found the dog emaciated, unable to stand and in clear distress.

According to the SPCA, Jessie was severely underweight, had multiple infected wounds, showed signs of prolonged immobility and had advanced oral decay. Her breathing was laboured and every touch caused pain. She was humanely euthanised shortly after inspectors determined she was beyond recovery.

Last week, AWS requested assistance from the Cape of Good Hope SPCA, which collected Jessie’s remains for a full postmortem at a private veterinary practice.

Her owner was arrested with the support of SAPS Strand and the City of Cape Town’s Animal Control Unit on Wednesday.

The SPCA says the case will be prosecuted under the Animals Protection Act No 71 of 1962. Both the SPCA and AWS have submitted affidavits and veterinary evidence as part of the criminal docket.

In a statement, the organisation said Jessie’s condition reflected “the aftermath of prolonged suffering”, adding that failing to seek veterinary care amounts to criminal neglect.

The SPCA has signalled its intention to push for full accountability.

Chief Inspector Jaco Pieterse (Cape of Good Hope SPCA) stated: “No animal deteriorates to this state overnight. Jessie suffered, and she suffered for a long time. Her owner had every opportunity to seek help and they chose not to. Neglect is cruelty, and it is a criminal offence. We will make sure this case is brought before the court and we will testify to ensure justice is served. Jessie had no voice during her suffering, but she has ours now.”

AWS Helderberg General Manager Julia Evans said: “Our inspector and veterinary team were confronted with a level of suffering that no animal should ever endure. Jessie could not even be touched without crying out. Ending her pain was the only humane choice we had. What happened to her is unacceptable and preventable. We are committed to seeing this case through, and we will not do it quietly.”

The SPCA confirmed a criminal docket has been compiled and charges have been laid under the Animals Protection Act, which carries penalties of up to R40 000 and/or 12 months imprisonment for failing to provide veterinary care to a sick or injured animal.

AWS Helderberg and the Cape of Good Hope SPCA worked collaboratively to compile witness affidavits, veterinary findings and expert evidence to support prosecution.

Pieterse added: “Justice for Jessie begins with accountability, and accountability begins with evidence. We have the evidence. Now we need the public to stand behind this fight.”

“Laws mean very little if they are not enforced. We will not let Jessie’s death be just another case number. We owe her that much."

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