In response to the recent killings of African penguins, the Cape of Good Hope SPCA’s Animal Control Unit has confiscated two husky dogs from a residential property in Simon’s Town.
A person went for a jog on a beach early in the morning, and found dead and dying penguins.
A spokesperson for the SPCA said subsequent confirmation from SANCCOB had revealed that the birds’ death appeared to be caused by biting.
There is an affidavit from a witness who saw the two dogs attacking the penguins.
There were two husky-type dogs seen at the beach. The dog was attacking the penguins in the water. The eyewitness tried to get the dogs away from the penguins multiple times, but failed. He finally succeeded on his third attempt when he threatened to shock the dog with a Taser device.
The eyewitness traced the off-leash huskies to their home and reported it to the authorities.
The African penguin is endangered, as classified by the IUCN. Seaforth Beach shares territory with Boulders Beach, a prominent nesting site for roughly 150 of these rare animals.
There are many signs posted at the beach and parking lot forbidding people from walking their dogs off-leash.
Dogs who violate the Animal Keeping By-law are impounded by City law Enforcement and SPCA inspectors.
The SPCA Chief Inspector, Jaco Pieterse, is quoted as saying “we don’t believe that the dogs are to blame, but their irresponsible owners will be held responsible.”
The owner can appeal the City’s decision.
Dogs should not be allowed to roam free in public spaces. If a dog is running loose, contact the City of Cape Town Animal Keeping Law Enforcement on 021 480 7700 immediately.
