WARNING: DISTURBING PHOTOGRAPHS. VIEW AT YOUR OWN DISCRETION. ⚠️

Residents and animal welfare advocates in the Bethal area have been left shocked and grieving after Inspector Lombard of the Bethal SPCA attended an appalling scene on Baanbreker farm road (about 6 km west of the Bethal–Secunda road). Two dogs — Rocky, a husky, and Boesman, a pitbull cross — were found strung up on a fence at a crossroads. Both animals bled from their mouths and noses, and no bullet wounds were observed when the bodies were collected and returned to the SPCA, leading inspectors to suspect poisoning. A note was left at the scene and initially included a contact number; that number was later removed.

The display of the animals in this manner has compounded community distress. Regardless of motive or circumstance, the apparent poisoning and public exhibition of these dogs is widely seen as a callous affront to the dignity of the animals and the sensitivities of local residents.

Legal context in South Africa

Under South African law, cruelty to animals is a criminal matter. The primary statute dealing with animal welfare is the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962, which prohibits acts of cruelty and neglect toward animals. In addition to statutory protections, perpetrators can also be prosecuted under common-law offences relating to malicious injury to property or other relevant criminal statutes where applicable. Where poisoning is involved, there may also be contraventions of environmental or public-safety legislation if toxic substances were used or disposed of in a way that endangers other animals or people.

Penalties for animal cruelty can include fines and imprisonment, and convicted persons may face further civil and administrative consequences. Exact charges and sentences depend on the facts of each case and prosecutorial decisions. Anyone seeking definitive legal guidance should consult an attorney or the relevant authorities.

What to do if you have information or evidence

• If you have any information about this incident, contact Inspector Lombard at 072 573 3122. All information will be treated confidentially.
• Report any suspected animal poisoning or abuse to the Bethal SPCA and the South African Police Service (SAPS) so a criminal investigation can be opened.
• Preserve evidence: do not move or touch items at the scene; take clear photos (if safe to do so) and note dates, times, vehicle details, or any suspicious activity. Provide witness statements to investigators.
• If you find a live animal showing symptoms of poisoning (salivation, vomiting, seizures, collapse), seek immediate veterinary help and, if possible, bring a sample of the suspected poison or the container to the vet or police.

Community response and prevention

Incidents like this underline the importance of vigilance and community cooperation. Neighbours, farmers, and road users should be encouraged to report suspicious behaviour and to secure pets and stock. Local SPCA branches and animal-welfare groups often work with communities to raise awareness about responsible animal care, the dangers of poisons, and how to report abuse.

If you can help, please contact Inspector Lombard on 072 573 3122. Together, the community and authorities can pursue answers, seek justice, and help ensure animals receive the dignity and protection they deserve.