NSPCA welcomes conviction of Boerboel breeder for illegal animal maiming

The National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) has welcomed the conviction of a Boerboel breeder for the illegal maiming of animals, saying the outcome sends a clear warning that cosmetic alteration of animals is unlawful and unacceptable.

Carlene Coetzee was convicted under the Animals Protection Act (APA) 71 of 1962 after a case spanning almost two years, during which the NSPCA pursued repeated allegations of illegal tail docking.

According to the NSPCA, Coetzee was first formally warned in October 2023 after admitting at a dog show that she had used rubber bands to remove the tails of puppies in her care. Tail docking is illegal under the APA unless it is carried out by a veterinarian for legitimate therapeutic reasons that improve an animal’s welfare.

Despite the warning, the NSPCA said it received further information in January 2024 indicating that Boerboel puppies had again been illegally maimed. Inspectors from the organisation’s Special Projects Unit obtained a warrant and went to Coetzee’s property to conduct an inspection.

The NSPCA said its inspector, Govender, accompanied by veterinary consultant Dr Bryce Marock, was initially obstructed from entering the premises in what appeared to be an attempt to delay the search.

Once access was gained, seven Boerboel puppies were discovered hidden in a wheelbarrow inside a garage. All seven were found to have maimed tails.

Following the investigation and subsequent prosecution, Coetzee was convicted of illegally maiming animals for cosmetic purposes. She was sentenced to a fine of R20,000 or, failing payment, 10 months’ imprisonment. Half of the prison term was suspended for five years on condition that she does not reoffend.

The NSPCA said the conviction affirms that physical alterations carried out for appearance or so-called breed standards have no legal standing.

Tail docking, the organisation stressed, is a painful and traumatic procedure that is often performed without anaesthesia. When carried out incorrectly or for non-therapeutic reasons, it can lead to infections, nerve damage, and long-term complications affecting basic bodily functions. It also interferes with a dog’s ability to communicate and express natural behaviour.

The NSPCA has warned that cases of animal maiming are increasing and said the conviction should serve as a deterrent to breeders and owners who continue to justify the practice on aesthetic grounds.

“This case sends a strong message to society that animals are not accessories to be altered to suit human preferences,” the NSPCA said, adding that it would continue to pursue similar cases to protect animal welfare and uphold the law.

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