Animal Abuse

Animal cruelty can be either deliberate abuse or simply the failure to take care of an animal. Either way, and whether the animal is a pet, a farm animal or wildlife, the victim can suffer terribly. Don’t despair, though—anyone can take steps against cruelty.

Deliberate cruelty may involve beating,shooting or stabbing animals, or setting them on fire. Neglect is not giving animal necessary food, water,shelter or vet care. Because their misery is often prolonged, animals who die of neglect can suffer just as much as animals who are deliberately harmed.

In December 2011, SPCA submitted a proposal for legislative reform (Animals and Birds Act, Part IV, the ‘Prevention of Cruelty to Animals’ sections 42 to 44) to the Ministry of National Development and apart from proposing increased penalties for existing offences based on cruelty, we are proposing that failure to take care of the welfare of pets should also amount to an offence and be punishable as such. Reports of alleged cruelty to animals have increased – in the last decade they have doubled. Presently we are receiving 85 reports on average per month. Coupled with the increased number of reported pet neglect cases, we have a more aware public who does not hesitate to vocalise or express their opinions on animal cruelty issues, whether directly to the SPCA or through media/online avenues.

Animal Abuse IS a Crime.

So don't ever think that you can get away with it.

However some good samaritans and animal organisations have been

on the prowl for abused and abandoned animals.

This is one of the many rescues: