SPCA Inspectors are empowered by law, under the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962, to act on behalf of animals. The SPCA Inspectors have the right to issue warnings and to seize animals in need. The SPCA believes in education rather than prosecution, but will never hesitate to take legal action if perpetrators do not comply. We are always ready to act on behalf of the animals.
Perpetrators found guilty in a court of law for animal cruelty could face up to 12 months’ imprisonment and/or a fine of up to R40,000, with a criminal record.
SPCA Inspectors do not release complainants information and every measure will be taken to ensure confidentiality.
The SPCA prevents cruelty to ALL animals, including domestic (dogs and cats), farm and wild animals. We visit sale yards, abattoirs, petting farms, pet shops, hawking sites, informal sale of animals, etc to make sure that everything is up to welfare standards and that the animal protection legislation is adhered to.
We also respond to the day to day cruelty complaints received from members of the public. The public is the SPCAs watching eye. Without the public the SPCA would not be able to prevent cruelty to animals.