Charges against K9 Patrol Pet Army founder for alleged animal cruelty
The investigation into the accused was strengthened by video footage captured during the incident, which shows the distressing treatment of the injured dog. In the video, the dog can be heard crying in pain as it was restrained and its mouth held shut while Jamie Pieterse applied super glue to its ear.
Image: Supplied / SPCA
The founder of K9 Patrol Pet Army, a non-profit organisation focused on enhancing animal care, and his co-accused are scheduled to appear in court again on April 15 to face charges related to their operations.
On Thursday, Jamie Pieterse and Marizelle Swanepoel appeared in the Wynberg Magistrate’s Court, where they face a total of 11 criminal charges.
The duo faces five counts under the Animals Protection Act, two counts under the City of Cape Town Animal Keeping By-Law for keeping unsterilised dogs over six months of age, and keeping more animals than permitted on a residential property. They also face a count under the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (NEMBA), two counts of fraud, and one count for contravening their bail conditions.
The matter was postponed to allow further investigation and enable the accused to consult with their newly appointed legal representatives.
Belinda Abraham, spokesperson for Cape of Good Hope SPCA, said the case against Pieterse and Swanepoel originated from a raid conducted by SPCA inspectors on May 2, 2025, after the SPCA secured a warrant from the Wynberg Magistrate’s Court following complaints and evidence suggesting animals were being kept in contravention of the Animals Protection Act.
When inspectors entered the premises during the raid, they discovered disturbing conditions, which included several dogs that were found tethered on short chains or ropes, severely restricting their movement and leaving them without access to clean drinking water. Puppies were found confined in small enclosures, including one instance where a dog was tethered to a tap inside a confined pen.
During the raid, the SPCA removed 13 dogs, eight puppies, a cat, and three containers of fish, which were placed into the care of the Cape of Good Hope SPCA, where they received urgent veterinary treatment and rehabilitation.
Abraham said the SPCA’s legal representative, Jaco Pieterse of Gishen McLeod Attorneys, was present at court on behalf of the SPCA.
Pieterse previously served as the chief inspector at the Cape of Good Hope SPCA and was, at the time, responsible for overseeing the investigation in this matter.
“We are confident that the matter is in good hands and that justice will be served,” said Abraham.
Previously, the SPCA said: “The investigation was initiated after Jamie allegedly treated a severely injured dog in Hanover Park using inappropriate methods. Reports indicate that he used super glue and aloe to address a dog’s torn ear without cleaning the wound or administering any form of pain relief or antibiotics, a method not aligned with accepted veterinary standards.
“It is also important to note that Jamie is not registered with the South African Veterinary Council (SAVC) to perform any veterinary procedures.”
Abraham said: “This case has raised serious concerns regarding public donations made to individuals claiming to operate animal rescue organisations. During the investigation, it became evident that kind-hearted members of the public had been making donations directly into the personal bank account of Mr Jamie Pieterse.
To report animal cruelty to the SPCA, call 021 700 4158/9 during office hours or on 083 326 1604 after hours or by sending an email to [email protected]