Cape Town owner banned after shocking SPCA puppy case
· The South African
A Cape Town woman has been barred from owning animals for five years after pleading guilty to animal cruelty in a case involving a young puppy that suffered severe neglect before being euthanised.
The sentence was handed down in the Blue Downs Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, 29 July.
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Puppy found with elastic band embedded in neck
According to the Cape of Good Hope SPCA, an inspector responded to a complaint at a Wesbank property on 16 October 2024.
The inspector found Cleo, a black crossbreed puppy estimated to be four to five months old, hiding in bushes.
She had a deep wound around her neck, was severely underweight and emitted a strong foul odour.
The owner told the inspector she had tried treating the puppy herself before surrendering Cleo to the SPCA after being advised that urgent veterinary treatment was needed.
A veterinary examination revealed the extent of the injuries.
An elastic band had become deeply embedded in Cleo’s neck, cutting almost to her trachea as it gradually tightened over time.
The wound had become chronically infected and tissue had started growing over the band.
Veterinarians estimated the injury had been left untreated for at least a month.
Cleo was also moderately emaciated, anaemic and suffering from tick and flea infestations.
Due to the severity of her condition and poor prognosis, veterinarians recommended humane euthanasia to prevent further suffering.
Court hands down suspended sentence
The SPCA said 60-year-old Christina Bernardus pleaded guilty to one count under the Animals Protection Act.
The court sentenced her to a R10 000 fine or four months’ imprisonment.
The sentence was wholly suspended for five years.
In addition, Bernardus was declared unfit to own or possess any animal for five years.
The SPCA described the ownership ban as one of the most significant outcomes of the case, saying it would help prevent further suffering by animals in her care.
SPCA says cruelty has consequences
The organisation said its inspectors continue investigating animal cruelty cases and work alongside legal teams to secure successful prosecutions.
“Every successful prosecution sends a clear message: cruelty to animals has consequences,” the SPCA said.
The organisation also thanked Control Prosecutor Janell Cochrane at the Blue Downs Magistrates’ Court for her role in prosecuting animal cruelty matters.
It further acknowledged the complainant whose report led inspectors to Cleo, saying public reporting remains vital in protecting vulnerable animals.
How to report animal cruelty
The Cape of Good Hope SPCA urged members of the public to report suspected cases of animal cruelty, neglect or abuse as soon as possible.
Reports can be made through the organisation’s 24-hour cruelty line, WhatsApp service or online reporting platform. The SPCA said all complaints are treated confidentially.