16 horses and ponies that were confiscated by the SPCA from a Philippi farm earlier this month in an extremely debilitated condition, were returned to their abusive owner.
The horses confiscated by the SPCA from owner Rashied Norris were horribly malnourished, tethered together in a cruel manner, and were covered in burrs. One of the ponies was so debilitated that it had to be put down.
It is scandalous that the SPCA could have given these poor animals back to the owner, knowing full well what conditions they came from and the lack of care they received.
In a similar vein, an article in the Athlone News of Wednesday 26 May 2010, refers to the carthorse owners, who have sometimes had horses confiscated by the SPCA because of poor treatment, as being "victimized". Are not the horses the real victims here?
The SPCA has the authority to confiscate such animals and to lay charges against their owners - it is what supporters of such an organization should be able to expect. They started off on the right track by doing just that, but after Norris and his cronies, including an ANC government official, complained and made a scene, the SPCA backed down and returned the horses to him.
This case is concerning because it could set a precedent for the future. Is this case indicative of other situations where the SPCA could be bowing to political pressure at the expense of ensuring the safety of animals?
We believe the citizens of Cape Town and the country as a whole, should be made aware of this. People donate, sacrificially in many cases, because of love and care for God's Creatures. Many people would love the opportunity to physically work with and for these animals, created by God, but due to circumstances are unable to, so they give their money instead, hoping that in some way they are making a difference. Then we read of this failure and compromise and it sickens our hearts.
"A good man takes care of his animals, but wicked men are cruel to theirs." Proverbs 12:10
God created all the animals and He made man responsible for them. We are answerable to God for our treatment, care and protection of them.
"Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves." Proverbs 31:8
What You Can Do:
Please write to the Cape Town SPCA CEO, Allan Perrins, who is responsible for returning these horses to the abusive owner: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or contact the Grassy Park SPCA on 021 - 700 4140 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to express your concerns. (Do not simply forward this email, please construct your own letter).
Educate your friends, family and congregation about the Biblical Worldview of animals: Download the tract: The Bible and Animals here.
Diane Worthington
Secretary
Africa Christian Action
PO Box 23632
Claremont 7735
Cape Town South Africa
Tel: 021-689 4481
E-mail:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Web: www.christianaction.org.za
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