SPCA warns against dog fighting

The SPCA has nationally categorised pit bulls as red-flagged and sent out a national alert saying the prevalence of dogfighting is increasing at an alarming rate, and so too are the crimes associated with it.

Dogs and cats are being stolen as bait animals, using a number of insidious means, including direct theft at gunpoint.

Despite being shrouded in secrecy and danger, it is well known that individuals involved in dogfighting are more than likely involved in other criminal activity.

According to the statement, bait dogs (and cats), are used to blood/train fighting dogs. Often their teeth and nails will be filed or removed, their mouths taped closed, and they will be further restrained when the fighting dog is instructed to attack.

Pit bull Federation SA spokesperson Lehanda Rheeder said banning the animal would not stop the mauling.

“We are of the opinion that it will only worsen our current problem. By driving the backyard breeders underground you will not be able to regulate or monitor their doings.”

She said the backyard breeders did not take the temperament of the dogs into account, and they kept breeding for profit, without looking out for the best interests of the breed. Human aggression is not tolerated in a purebred pit bull.

“Owners need to be more responsible in these types of situations, Pit bulls and any other power breed need to be in a secure environment. If a bite-incident or mauling does occur it has to be reported to the SAPS for it is a criminal offence.”

The federation thinks it would be good to introduce licensing options if one wants to own or breed pit bulls.

Rheeder said: “Licensing is a good idea for breeders and owners, and we have been asking for this for more than two decades. We would like to start a comprehensive database so accountability can be regulated more closely.

“We as the federation have warned the pit bull community of the dangers we will face if we don’t educate the public on responsible ownership and breeding.”

Rheeder said the American pit bull formed part of the power breeds. This means that it takes a certain type of owner and family to look after and care for this dog.

“They are not ideal for first-time dog owners. They are bred to be dog- and animal-aggressive, and you must keep that in mind when you consider adding a pit bull to your family.”

If you cannot spend the necessary time and effort to get to know these dogs and give them the necessary attention, exercise and stimulation, they are not the breed for you,” said Rheeder.

According to the NSPCA statement, in Cape Town, a six-month-old pit bull was stolen in Kuilsrivier from a teenager playing in the road with her; the perpetrators were armed with a knife and a gun.

Another case was in Bonteheuwel, where the property was entered by three armed men, and the neighbour who came to investigate was held up while the dog was stolen.

High-risk dog breeds include pit bulls, Staffordshire bull terriers, boerboels and German Shepherds.