Posts

Dog Fighting: More than the Abuse of Dogs

/in , , , , , /by

fighting

Dog Fighting: More than the Abuse of Dogs

Dog fighting conjures up images of cruelty, animal suffering, and greed – but that’s not the full picture. To that, add crime, gangsterism, violence, and drugs, and then the realities of dog fighting become clearer. 

It’s a problem of dangerous, disturbing proportions: people who flout animal protection laws flout other laws, too – just as those who violently hurt animals have no problem with violence towards people, too.

As dog fighting is illegal, the Cape of Good Hope SPCA works with the City of Cape Town’s Law Enforcement (Animal Control Unit) to enforce the law and educate communities about the harms of dog fighting and ways to spot it and report it.

This work pays off, as we saw in March when our Inspectors responded to a tip-off about youngsters inciting their dogs to fight – a regular occurrence, according to the Lotus River resident who reported the matter.

Young people become desensitised to animal suffering by witnessing dog fighting in their communities and imitating it with their own dogs. Numerous studies have also identified how animal abuse is often linked to child abuse and gender-based violence – two of the greatest societal ills in South Africa.

Please help us keep up the pressure to end dog fighting by supporting our anti-dog fighting campaigns. It takes teamwork and a united front to dismantle a secretive system that operates in the shadows of our communities – and in the darkest corners of the human psyche.

Source: SPCA

Prisoners for profit

/in , , , , , /by

Image: Pixabay

Prisoners for profit

NO Animal should be used for human entertainment, or imprisoned for profit!!

In the realm of human entertainment, the symbiotic relationship between animals and society has been both a source of wonder and controversy and animals have been included in many human leisure activities. However, the use of animals for human amusement is a topic that stirs ethical debates and raises questions about the intersection of entertainment, conservation, and the well-being of these creatures. This complex interplay between the desire for amusement and the responsibility toward the welfare of animals continues to shape the evolving narrative of animals in human entertainment.

The use of animals for entertainment has a long history that dates back to ancient civilizations. The first recorded instances of animal entertainment can be traced to ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Greece. Many animals were and are still used for blood sports.

Here are some examples of where animals are used for entertainment and profit:

CIRCUS, ZOOS & AQUARIUMS

The concept of circuses, as we know them today, started to take shape in the 18th and 19th centuries. These traveling shows often featured trained animals performing tricks and acts, becoming a popular form of entertainment in many parts of the world. While some circuses have transitioned to animal-free shows due to ethical concerns, the use of animals in circuses has historically been a prominent form of entertainment.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, aquatic entertainment parks, like marine parks and aquariums, gained popularity. These venues showcased trained dolphins, seals, and whales performing in aquatic displays. Zoos date back even further.

Do you remember how you hated lockdown?  Watch this video on the permanent lockdowns animals are forced into in these industries where they are imprisoned for life for human profit.

HORSE RACING

Horse racing is a popular sport where horses compete in races for entertainment and gambling. Our concerns include the welfare, the use of performance-enhancing substances and the potential for injuries, the disposal of the horses when they can’t be used for profit anymore and that is not all.

ANIMAL RIDES

In some tourist destinations, animals like elephants, camels, and horses are used to provide rides to visitors. These practices have faced criticism due to concerns about the welfare of the animals, as they may endure long hours of work, inadequate living conditions, and physical strain. When you look at the anatomy of these animals, you will also be concerned.

RODEOS

Rodeos involve events where cowboys and cowgirls compete in various activities involving livestock, such as bull riding, calf roping, and bronc riding. These events can cause stress and injuries to the animals involved.

FALCONRY & BIRD FLIGHT COMPETITIONS

Falconry is an ancient practice where trained birds of prey are used to hunt animals. While it’s considered a cultural heritage in some regions, debates arise over the ethics of keeping wild birds in captivity for human entertainment. I also do not support the use of flight doves for competition and human entertainment.

PETTING ZOOS

Petting zoos allow visitors to interact with domesticated and sometimes exotic or wild animals. While they aim to provide hands-on educational experiences, I cannot in good conscience support it because for me, it is about the animals’ mental health, stress levels and exposure to potentially harmful human contact, and that is apart from the other welfare concerns.

“SANCTUARIES”

The same goes for sanctuaries. True sanctuaries understand this well. Let us look at lions for example: Early removal of cubs from mom so they can be used for tourists’ interaction and petting farms is one.  The older cubs are used for lion walks some lions are sold and taken to be hunted or slaughtered for bones other lions are sold for breeding and this cycle repeats!

CATCH-AND-RELEASE FISHING

Catch-and-release fishing, as a form of human entertainment, involves anglers catching fish and then releasing them back into the water. This practice is pursued primarily for recreational enjoyment rather than for consuming the caught fish. People do it for the thrill of the fishing experience but how do you justify hurting animals on purpose, taking them out of the water, and more?

DOG FIGHTING / BLOODSPORTS

These practices are ancient and much of it has gone “underground” in recent years since it is illegal, but it is still happening and a sad reality that animal welfare organizations deal with frequently. Read more on this topic here.

BREEDING

Apart from the fact that about 2800 healthy animals are euthanized (humanely killed) EVERY DAY IN SA because there are just not enough homes, exploiting animals for financial benefit, for status, or fun is one of the worst forms where animals are kept as prisoners for profit.  There are so many negative consequences when people prioritize profit over the well-being of animals.  No breeding is responsible or ethical when we have a massive overpopulation crisis. These animals are kept and bred (which brings its own risks) until they can’t make money for the person anymore and are then dumped at shelters and disposed of in other ways. 

Some entertainment industries, such as circuses with performing animals, can contribute to a cycle of captive breeding and the demand for wild animals, potentially encouraging illegal wildlife trade and unsustainable practices.

DOG SHOWS

Dog shows feature various breeds of dogs competing in events that evaluate their conformation to breed standards. These events are meant to showcase the dogs’ appearance, agility, and obedience too. Here, part of our concerns goes with the breeding for appearance and how that can lead to health issues, and how the emphasis on aesthetics can overshadow the animals’ well-being. In addition, these animals are also subjected to being caged and transported regularly which is not acceptable for us.

HUNTING

Hunting is deeply entrenched in the South African culture, but also an industry of entertainment that exploits animals and which warrants a whole article for itself, for example, trophy hunting, canned lion hunting, driven hunts, hunting with dogs who can get hurt and green hunting are some of the big concerns here. Fox hunting is also a topic on his own when it comes to cruelty. We likely won’t change everyone to vegans, hunt and eat, but when you start to do it for fun, trophy hunt, put up pictures of your killing to get likes for your ego then you are entering the dark psychology personality traits.

These examples highlight just some of the diverse ways in which animals have been used for human entertainment, sparking discussions about ethics, animal welfare, and the evolving understanding of our responsibilities towards the creatures that share our planet.

THE ETHICAL CONCERNS

The ethical debate surrounding the use of animals in entertainment stems from a range of concerns related to their well-being, rights, and dignity. Several key points contribute to this ongoing discussion, but for me, there should not even be a debate. Thousands, if not millions of animals are held captive to entertain humans and not one of them had a choice!

  • ANIMAL WELFARE

One of the primary concerns is the welfare of animals involved in entertainment activities. In the entertainment industry, animals are treated as commodities to generate profits. This focus on financial gain can lead to the animals being neglected, overworked, or subjected to harmful training techniques.

The captivity, training methods, transport, forcing them to do tricks, and living conditions in settings like circuses, theme parks, and zoos can lead to stress, physical harm, and psychological suffering for the animals. The confined spaces, unfamiliar environments, and sometimes unnatural behaviours demanded by entertainment routines can compromise their health and quality of life.

  • INHERENT RIGHTS

Animals have intrinsic value and deserve to live their lives free from exploitation and harm. Using animals as mere props for human amusement can be seen as a violation of their inherent rights to live according to their natural behaviours and environments. Animals are sentient beings capable of feeling pain, stress, and emotions. It is morally wrong to use them for human amusement and it goes against the principles of respecting the intrinsic value of all living creatures.

  • TRAINING TECHNIQUES

The methods used to train animals for entertainment purposes often involve coercion, punishment, and confinement. These techniques can cause physical and emotional distress, leading to negative consequences for the animals’ well-being. It doesn’t matter what the circus or zoo claim they do, what we see in these animals’ eyes is a life they do not choose.

  • CONSERVATION AND EDUCATION

Some argue that animals in entertainment can serve as educational tools, raising awareness about different species and their conservation needs. However, this argument is contentious, as it raises questions about whether animals’ educational value justifies their captivity and potential suffering. A three-year-old can tell you a lot about a dinosaur that they have never seen in real life.  I believe that education can be achieved without subjecting animals to stressful or unnatural conditions and that focusing on their conservation in the wild is more effective.

  • UNNATURAL BEHAVIOURS

Many entertainment scenarios require animals to perform behaviours that are unnatural to them. For instance, circus animals may be trained to perform tricks, jump through fire, and balance on a ball, which doesn’t reflect their natural behaviours. We argue that this can confuse and stress the animals, impacting their mental and emotional health.

  • IMPACT ON ECOSYSTEMS

Removing animals from their natural habitats for entertainment purposes can disrupt ecosystems and contribute to the decline of certain species. Recognizing animals’ place within the larger ecological system is essential. Every species has a role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems, and using them for entertainment can disrupt these delicate interactions.

WHAT ARE YOU TEACHING YOUR CHILDREN WHEN YOU SUPPORT THESE PRISONERS-FOR-PROFIT INDUSTRIES?

The decision to support or reject the use of animals for entertainment holds significant implications for the lessons we impart to our children. By choosing to support animal entertainment, we risk reinforcing notions of animals as mere commodities, potentially stifling empathy, and disconnecting them from the natural world. Such a stance can normalize the exploitation of sentient beings for amusement, teaching children that this is an acceptable part of human interaction with animals. It’s important to consider both the intended and unintended lessons they might learn.

Here are some potential lessons that supporting such practices might teach your child:

Animals as Commodities: Supporting animal entertainment can inadvertently teach children that animals are objects to be used for human enjoyment rather than sentient beings with their own needs, emotions, and rights.

Lack of Empathy: Children may not develop a strong sense of empathy towards animals if they see them being treated as props or performers rather than beings deserving of respect and care.

Disconnection from Nature: Encouraging entertainment that exploits animals might distance children from the understanding that animals are part of the natural world and ecosystems, contributing to a lack of appreciation for biodiversity and the environment.

Normalization of Exploitation: Children might come to see the exploitation of animals as a normal and acceptable part of human entertainment, potentially perpetuating a cycle of unethical treatment in the future.

Misunderstanding Animal Behaviour: Entertainment routines often involve animals performing behaviours that are unnatural to them. This can lead to misconceptions about animal behaviour and perpetuate stereotypes that don’t align with the animals’ true nature.

The decision to reject animal entertainment can be an opportunity to teach children about ethical considerations, critical thinking, and making informed choices based on principles and values.

Responsibility: Encouraging children to respect and value all forms of life fosters a sense of responsibility for the well-being of animals and contributes to their understanding of the interconnectedness of life on Earth.

Stewardship of the Planet: Teaching children about the importance of conserving and protecting animals and their habitats helps instill a sense of responsibility for the environment and future generations.

Critical Thinking: Engaging children in discussions about the ethics of animal entertainment encourages them to think critically and form their own opinions based on evidence and thoughtful consideration.

Ultimately, the messages you convey to your child about animal entertainment will shape their attitudes and beliefs about animals, their role in the world, and their responsibility toward them. Choosing to support ethical forms of entertainment or activities that prioritize the well-being of animals can help children develop empathy, compassion, and a deep respect for all living beings, their rights, and their dignity. The path we choose reflects our collective responsibility to nurture not only the well-being of animals but also the values we hope to pass down to the generations that follow.

THERE ARE ALTERNATIVES

Over time, public attitudes have evolved, with more people becoming conscious of animal welfare and rights. This shift in perspective has led to increased scrutiny of practices that may have been deemed acceptable in the past. With advancements in technology, virtual reality, and animatronics, there are alternatives to using live animals for entertainment. These alternatives can provide similar experiences without subjecting animals to potential harm or distress.

I have seen some amazing, captivating, and inspiring performances by humans, drawing us into a world of grace, strength, and mystery. These talented individuals had a choice to entertain you when the animals don’t!

In conclusion, the ethical concerns, animal welfare considerations, and the evolving understanding of animals’ role in our world have prompted many to advocate against using animals for entertainment. Advocates stress the importance of respecting animals as sentient beings and finding more compassionate and sustainable ways to appreciate and interact with the animal kingdom.

Encouraging open dialogue, critical thinking, and empathy is key to fostering a deeper understanding of the ethical considerations surrounding these complex issues. It’s important for individuals to be informed consumers and to support ethical practices that prioritize the health and welfare of animals over profit.

Changing the public’s perception of using animals for entertainment is a complex process that requires a combination of education, awareness-building, and advocacy. You can help:

  • Make informed choices that align with your values and contribute to positive change.
  • Support and promote legislative efforts aimed at improving animal welfare standards and prohibiting the use of animals as entertainment.
  • Help us raise awareness and educate others about this topic.
  • Promoting ethical alternatives can lead to a shift in attitudes and behaviours, ultimately contributing to a world where animals are treated with respect and compassion.
  • Most of all, stop supporting these industries that imprison animals for profit. If it pays it will stay!

It can never be ethical to use animals for human entertainment. Your hour of entertainment means a lifetime of enslavement for them. Don’t be captured by captivity!

WHEN YOU KNOW BETTER, DO BETTER!

Source: The Bulletin

Increase in dogfighting on the Cape Flats

/in , /by

By: Mthuthuzeli Ntseku

Dogfighting

The SPCA said it had seen a widespread increase in dogfighting on the Cape Flats and urged communities to report these incidents.

Cape of Good Hope SPCA spokesperson Belinda Abraham said dogfighting was a strong indicator of a society in decay as it promoted and encouraged a culture of non-empathy.

“We are concerned about the practice of dogfighting as it is not only a problem of cruelty to animals, but also part of a criminal subculture that can involve other criminal activities such as illegal gambling, drug-related crimes, theft as well as contributing to the destruction of communities. Illegal gambling is an inherent part of a dogfight, and because money changes hands, weapons are common,” Abrahams said.

She said children were often present, and besides the inherent danger of the situation to a child, their witnessing such premeditated acts of cruelty led to an ever-growing desensitisation to violence.

Dogfighting

The SPCA said it had seen a widespread increase in dogfighting on the Cape Flats and urged communities to report these incidents. Picture: Herbert Matimba/African News Agency (ANA) Archives

Animal rescue organisation Tin Can Town’s field volunteer Carol Conradie said there was more street dogfighting than most people realised.

“Street fighting is much more prevalent than the organised syndicate fights. Guys grab any dogs on the street for quick impromptu fights on any piece of waste ground. They take bets on the dogs and then turn the dogs loose to either die of their injuries or find their way home,” Conradie said.

“Generally we receive these dogs in excruciating conditions, with horrible bite wounds. These dogs that find their way home or are picked up by concerned community members have also often been knocked over by cars as they flee in panic, so they quite often have broken bones in addition to their bite wounds.”

Cicely Blumberg from Adopt A Pet said dog fighting and gangsterism were connected where power breeds such as pit bulls had replaced breeds such as Staffies and bull terriers as a “must-have breed”, where they were used as “killers”.

Dogfighting

The SPCA said it had seen a widespread increase in dogfighting on the Cape Flats. FILE IMAGE

Conradie said dogfighting was illegal in South Africa in terms of the Animals Protection Act, but the progression of this activity to the level of organised crime made it hard to infiltrate.

“Each case costs the SPCA in the region of R20000, this includes veterinary treatment for the injured animal as well as veterinary reports for the purposes of prosecution, expert witness testimony, travel costs to and from the courts and inspector salaries.”

She said Tin Can Town was increasingly encouraged by the severity of the sentences being handed down in respect of animal cruelty.

Source: Daily Voice

Last-minute reprieve for Khayelitsha dogs looking for homes

/in , /by
Last - minute

Thabisa Makhaphela has been volunteering at the Mdzananda Animal Clinic for three months. She focuses on finding adoptions for the stray dogs. Photo: Kristine Liao

Mdzananda Animal Clinic’s appeal for help gets positive response across city.

The Mdzananda Animal Clinic in Khayelitsha was at double its capacity for stray dogs on Tuesday morning, and would have had to resort to euthanasia if people had not come forward to adopt or foster the dogs. But within hours of the clinic calling for help on Facebook, people offered the animals a safe place to stay.

“After yesterday’s post, we have got quite a few responses from people who are going to foster, so I am expecting to have 20 dogs move out of our shelter before end of next week,” said Marcelle du Plessis, the clinic’s fundraising and communications manager. “The amazing thing is, every time we get to a point of desperation, people do step in.”

When GroundUp visited the clinic Wednesday morning, three dogs had already been adopted that day, in addition to the six dogs that found new homes the day before. People have come from Mitchells Plain, Pinelands, Mowbray, and Sea Point.

Oscars Arc and AtFrits Pet Hotel & Daycare Centre, both of which act as adoption centres, have also agreed to bring dogs into their facilities. Oscars Arc is set to take six, and AtFrits to take 16.

AtFrits is primarily a creche for dogs, but since it is able to take in 276 animals, it dedicates space for animals that are in need. The dogs from Mdzananda Animal Clinic will receive the exact same care as customers’ dogs. They will have access to the dog park and be fed three times a day.

“For me, now, the only thing is to get the animals adopted,” said AtFrits owner Yanic Klue. “Money can’t buy the life of a dog so I don’t even think about that. The most important thing now is to get the animals in a safe environment and to get them adopted.”

The clinic has never euthanised an animal due to overcapacity, but it had never been as desperate to find adoptions and foster homes. It had 37 dogs on Tuesday morning, but only has the capacity to care for 15.

“It has been very quiet in the past month,” said Lisa Godana, the clinic’s administration assistant. In April, only eight dogs were adopted, compared to nine dogs in just the past two days as a result of the Facebook post.

Du Plessis said people handed over their pet if they were moving away or could no longer afford to take care of it anymore. People also tended to give up their dog when it was no longer a puppy. Du Plessis said a two-year-old dog was once handed in just because it was not young any more.

“Lately we find animals in our yard in the morning, so a lot of people are throwing animals over gates overnight,” du Plessis said. “People do come over and hand over pets physically, so we can still talk to them. But it’s quite hard to track people’s reasoning for abandoning pets.”

Since Mdzananda Animal Clinic is primarily a veterinary clinic, taking strays is not a service it intended to provide. However, the clinic has decided that it will not to take in any new strays until its numbers are stable again, du Plessis said.

“People who come with strays, we’re going to have to talk to them and try to get them to take responsibility for their own pets, or give them the option to put their animal to sleep,” du Plessis said.

As for the pets that continue to be thrown over the gates overnight, however, du Plessis said the clinic will have no other option than to take care of them.

Last - minute

Tiger, one of the clinic’s three pitbulls, is still waiting to be adopted after three weeks in the clinic. Photo: Kristine Liao

The clinic’s finance assistant Tashmin May is especially worried for the three pitbulls that are currently staying at the clinic, since they have to stay in their own kennels. Obama has been here since the beginning of April, and Lady and Tiger have been here for about three weeks.

“They are getting very depressed in the kennels and they need more space,” May said. “There’s the stigma that pitbulls are very aggressive, but they’re not really. It’s just the way that they’ve been brought up.”

May said one of the difficulties for finding a family for pitbulls is that it has to be a one-dog home. Another issue is that the clinic does not allow people living in the Cape Flats to adopt pitbulls, due to the prevalence of dog fighting in the area. She said people will steal pitbulls to enter them into fighting competitions, which people bet on.

Strays at Mdzananda on average stay at the clinic for two to three months before adoption, but have stayed as long as eight months, according to du Plessis.

Source: The Citizen

NSPCA offers R30000 dog-fighting reward

/in , /by

NSPCA

The National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) has offered a R30000 reward for any information that could lead to the arrest and prosecution of dog fighters.

Their Special Investigations Unit has noted a spike in reported incidents nationally, and in some cases the dogs have had to be put down due to their injuries. The American pit bull terrier is the most popular dog breed among dog fighters.

Special Investigations Unit manager Wendy Willson said that in the past few years they’d had multiple successes, and had saved hundreds of dogs.

“The fights are brutal and the dogs suffer the most traumatic injuries. The dogs used for dog fighting are almost exclusively American pit bull terriers, however at the less sophisticated dog-fighting levels the perpetrators may occasionally also use similar breeds such as bull terriers or Staffordshire terriers,” she said.

“At this low level of dog fighting dogs are often sourced from ‘free to a good home adverts’ or stolen from less vigilant pet owners.”

Willson said dog fighting was a crime that had a significant negative impact on the community because of its violent nature. It was often linked with other crimes, particularly interpersonal violence and control crimes such as woman and child abuse.

“It is an indicator of concurrent violence in a community. Dog fighting is particularly detrimental to children who are often exposed to this crime. In children it erodes empathy and can lead to future violence,” she said.

The Cape of Good Hope SPCA urged the public to report incidents of dog fighting, saying very few cases were actually reported to them.

“We would like the public to know that we treat all complaints with strict confidentiality and anonymity, and appeal to them to report any suspicious activities related to this heinous crime,” Willson said.

Suspected dog fighting activities can be anonymously reported at 0119073590 or email specialinvestigations@nspca.co.za

Source: IOL

Dog fighting- Now punishable with a prison sentence!

/in , /by

dog fighting now punishable by prison sentence

Dog fighting is a terrible blood hungry sport in which dogs are forced to fight one another for entertainment and profitable purposes. It’s one of the most horrific forms of animal cruelty, because dogs are typically raised in isolation, so they spend most of their lives in short heavy chains. These four-legged victims of abuse are forced to take steroids and their ears are cut off in cruel ways to avoid opponents from grabbing them during a fight.

The most common breed being used in these unthinkably cruel activities are Pit Bulls. These dogs have to endure pain and suffering, while the blood-thirsty spectators and abusers cheer for every fresh wound, broken bone and punctured lung. The brutalities continue for hours and some of the dogs eventually die in their battle against humanity.

dog fighting now punishable by prison sentence

Is there any justice for the brutality?

To date, proper punishment for these horrific acts was extremely unsatisfactory with perpetrators often merely walking away with nothing but a fine. Last week however saw a big win for the NSPCA and SAPS. Two culprits accused of involvement in the organising of dog flights got handed a sentence of direct imprisonment without suspension or the option of a fine. These two, together with 7 other suspects tried to evade the NSPCA inspectors and SAPD after arranging a vicious dog flight on 22 June 2018.

Honourable Magistrate P. Lourens who handed down the sentence said that, “It is necessary that this evil be addressed- because this, is evil” and that “we have reached a level of civilisation and constitutional values where a clear message has to be sent out to the people who want to commit these heinous and barbaric acts, that they will be punished and not just acknowledged”.

We could not be happier and our joy is echoed by the President of the Pit Bull Federation of South Africa (PBFSA), Jeanette Erasmus who said, “This is the best news”.

The court case against the remaining seven accused continues on the 13th of November.

Can abused Pit Bulls be rehabilitated?

Sure, with the right love and care a Pit Bull can be saved from their trauma and neglected past.

Meet Ruth, a Pit Bull saved from a dog fight.

Ruth suffered from heavy injuries to her face and neck. Her one ear was also torn apart. According to the gentleman who saved her, Ruth was like a baby that needed to be handled with love, care and lots of patience. That’s exactly what he did!

Here’s what the poor pooch looked before her recovery:

dog fighting now punishable by prison sentence

Check out the video here: Ruth before recovery.

Here’s what she looks like now:

dog fighting now punishable by prison sentence

Check out the video here: Ruth after recovery

After Ruth’s 28-day rehabilitation, she found a loving home. She’s now the queen of the house. Her new family gives her the life she’s always deserved. Her day is filled with face-licks, snuggles and treats.

Aww…we love happy endings!

What can you do to help our precious Pit Bulls?

It’s not an easy fight! We don’t always have the resources or knowledge to combat animal cruelty. We can however educate ourselves and report dog fighting, if we come across such brutalities.

Look out for the following signs:

  • Pit Bulls on chains in small spaces.
  • Residents with multiple unsterilized Pit bulls that look aggressive.
  • Pit Bulls with scars, especially on their faces and ears.
  • Purpose built fighting pits or square makeshift fighting areas with blood stains on the floors.
  • Regular change in dogs at specific properties. As dogs are killed, new one’s are purchased.

If you witness or hear of dog fighting, please contact the NSPCA at 011 907 3590 or pop them a mail at specialinvestigations@nspca.co.za. Don’t worry, your identity will remain YOURS! Reporting is 100% anonymous.

dog fighting now punishable by prison sentence

Sources

Source: Dotcure.co.za

 

Link between animal cruelty and human abuse

/in , /by

A review of the literature
By: Regan Jules-Macquet

Animal abuse has become increasingly recognised as a serious crime, as well as an indicator of human-directed violence (A Campbell ‘The Admissibility of Evidence of Animal Abuse in Criminal Trials for Child and Domestic Abuse’ (2002) 43(2) Boston College Law Review 463).

Recently there have been a few cases of judicial responses to animal cruelty and abuse in the South African media. Public sentiment often runs very high over cases involving animals. A story that was discussed on social media refers to a magistrate who allegedly stated that people care more for animals than for humans when passing a light sentence for dog fighting.

The purpose of this article is to provide a brief overview of the literature on the link between animal cruelty and criminal behaviour, illustrating that dealing appropriately with animal cruelty offences is a necessary part of addressing problem human behaviour. It is a specious argument that one must care either for humans or for animals, but not for both. As the literature in this article will show, the fates of both humans and animals are inextricably intertwined, and that this understanding should inform investigative, judicial and prosecutorial responses to such offences.

Legislation

Animal mistreatment is dealt with in terms of the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962 (the Act). People found guilty of contravening the Act are liable on conviction to a fine or incarceration for a maximum of 12 months. Civil orders for damages up to R 5 000 can also be made in terms of the Act. The Act specifies the various actions that constitute animal abuse and mistreatment, which range from the causing of pain, injury or suffering of an animal, to dog fighting and keeping an animal in unsuitable conditions without adequate medical care, water, light and food.

The links between human behaviour and animal cruelty and abuse

A strong connection exists between animal mistreatment and human violence (C Hensley and SE Tallichet ‘Childhood and Adolescent Animal Cruelty Methods and Their Possible Link to Adult Violent Crimes’ (2009) 24 Journal of Interpersonal Violence 147 and F Ortiz ‘Making The Dogman Heel: Recommendations For Improving The Effectiveness Of Dogfighting Laws’ (2010) 3 Stanford Journal of Animal Law and Policy 1). The presence of abusive behaviour towards animals is a characteristic of one in four violent adult offenders (FR Ascione ‘Animal Abuse and Youth Violence’ (2001) Juvenile Justice Bulletin at 1). People who commit a single known act of animal abuse are more likely to commit other criminal offences than non-abusers. Animal abusers are 5,3 times more likely to have a violent criminal record than non-abusers (A Arluke, J Levin, and F Ascione ‘The Relationship of Animal Abuse to Violence and Other Forms of Antisocial Behaviour’ (1999) 14 Journal of Interpersonal Violence 963).

Current evidence does show that animal mistreatment by youths is linked with general criminality, interpersonal violence and gang-related activities. Offenders in the United States who have been charged with animal abuse are more likely to carry and use firearms in the commission of other offences and commit acts of violence towards other humans (J Maher and H Pierpoint ‘Friends, Status Symbols And Weapons: The Use of Dogs by Youth Groups and Youth Gangs’ (2011) 55 Crime, Law and Social Change 405). Abuse of animals for fun by youths is a statistically significant predictor for interpersonal violence as adults. Other research into the link between animal abuse and human violence has shown that animal abusers are four times more likely to commit property offences and five times more likely to commit violent offences. According to Arluke, Levine and Ascione (op cit), animal abusers are more likely to commit other offences such as drug-related offences, disorderly behaviour, property offences and other antisocial acts than people with no history of animal abuse.

Animal abuse appears in offences such as domestic violence, where pets of the victim can be injured or killed. There is a significant association between domestic violence and animal abuse to the extent that animal abuse is regarded as an indicator of potential domestic violence in the home (KL Thompson and E Gullone ‘Promotion of Empathy and Prosocial Behaviour in Children through Human Education’ (2003) 38(3) Australian Psychologist at 175, as well as Campbell op cit). In studies of women at a domestic violence shelter, 71% of women who owned pets reported that the pet had been a target of violence by the abuser. Thirty-three percent of women whose pets had been abused also reported that their children had been abused (Ascione op cit). A study on abused children indicated that 60% of the cases involved animal as well as child abuse, the figure escalating to 88% when child abuse was physical (D Atwood-Harvey ‘From Touchstone to Tombstone: Children’s Experiences with the Abuse of their Beloved Pets’ (2007) 31 November Humanity & Society 379). According to Flynn, efforts to reduce animal mistreatment and cruelty are likely to reduce tolerance for interpersonal violence in communities, which, in turn, may reduce interpersonal violence against women and children (Thompson and Gullone, 2003 (op cit)).

Animal abuse not only inhibits the development of empathy and is more likely to lead to interpersonal violence; it also is strongly connected with attitudes, values and beliefs supporting interpersonal violence. This relationship exists for both sexes, although males are almost four times more likely to abuse animals than females (CP Flynn ‘Animal Abuse in Childhood and Later Support for Interpersonal Violence in Families’ (1999) 7(2) Society and Animals 161). Simply witnessing animal mistreatment and abuse at a young age increases the risk of not only perpetuating animal abuse oneself, but also engaging in delinquent behaviour (BC Henry ‘Exposure to Animal Abuse and Group Context: Two Factors Affecting Participation in Animal Abuse’ 2004 17(4) Anthrozoos 290 and KL Thompson and E Gullone ‘An Investigation into the Association between the Witnessing of Animal Abuse and Adolescents’ Behavior toward Animals’ (2006) 14(3) Society & Animals 221). This effect is heightened when the animal abuse is perpetrated by someone with whom the witness has an emotional connection, such as a parent, sibling or peer (Thompson and Gullone (2006) op cit).

Accurately identifying and appropriately responding to animal abuse in young children not only allows for early interventions, but may also act as a predictor of long-term behavioural problems in individual cases (FR Ascione, ME Kaufmann and S Brooks ‘Animal Abuse and Developmental Psychopathology: Recent Research, Programmatic, and Therapeutic Issues and Challenges for the Future’ In: A FINE (ed) Handbook on Animal-Assisted Therapy: Theoretical Foundations and Guidelines for Practice (United Kingdom: Academic Press 2000) 325). L Merz-Perez et al cautions against dismissing animal mistreatment and abuse as petty offences, and states that each act of violence towards an animal should be thoroughly investigated as a potential precursor of human violence (L Merz-Perez, KM Heide, and IJ Silverman ‘Childhood Cruelty to Animals and Subsequent Violence against Humans’ (2001) 45 International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology 556).

In addition to perpetrators of animal abuse, passive bystanders or witnesses of animal abuse have been shown to demonstrate behaviours, values and beliefs similar to passive bystanders/witnesses of human violence (A Arluke ‘Bystander Apathy in Animal Abuse Cases: Exploring Barriers to Child and Adolescent Intervention’ (2012) 25(1) Anthrozoös 5). By addressing and preventing passivity towards animal mistreatment and abuse, improvements can also be made in preventing passivity towards human violence, particularly with children.

Profile of an offender For illustrative purposes, a brief case study of an offender who committed animal abuse has been included. Offender X is a 38-year-old male from the Eastern Cape, who was convicted for bestiality. A brief review of his personal circumstances reveals the following:

  • Disrupted family structure through the death of both parents while young.
  • Poor psychosocial development as he has never had an intimate relationship with a woman.
  • Still lives with his sisters, failed to complete his education and does not work.
  • History of asocial behaviour in the form of three prior convictions for substance abuse and two prior incidents of inappropriate sexual contact, one of which was incestual.
  • A history of substance abuse of dagga and alcohol.
  • Distorted cognition illustrated in the fact that he believes the neighbourhood women use witchcraft against him as the reason why he does not have any intimate relations with adult women.

The assessment outcome was to refer the offender for a full psychiatric evaluation and for cognitive behavioural therapy, coupled with family therapy and aftercare. The above case depicts the complex presence of multiple risk factors that warrant close and careful attention in a single case of animal abuse. This case illustrates the links between animal abuse and offending behaviour that has been repeatedly identified in research literature.

Prosecuting animal cruelty and abuse

Campbell recommends the evidentiary use of acts of animal mistreatment and abuse in cases that include child abuse and domestic violence on the grounds that it may be easier to detect and prove and can serve to illustrate lack of accident, intent or motive (A Campbell op cit). The connection between animal abuse/mistreatment and child abuse and domestic violence should receive more attention by detectives, prosecutors and judicial officers. According to Campbell, focusing on evidence of animal abuse or mistreatment can help reduce animal abuse, child abuse and domestic violence (A Campbell op cit).

Suggestions

In the event that a case of animal abuse or mistreatment occurs, it is suggested that the accused be referred for a psychosocial assessment by either the Department of Social Development, or by a civil society service provider, such as the National Institute for Crime Prevention and the Reintegration of Offenders (NICRO). This is to ensure that any underlying social functioning and psychosocial issues are correctly identified and taken into consideration when developing the diversion order or sentence. Family assessments will be required in the event that child abuse or domestic violence is suspected.

Implications for policy and practice

It is hoped that this article has demonstrated the significance of animal abuse and mistreatment in the field of criminal justice. Animal abuse should be prioritised for its own sake in order that we work towards the creation of a non-violent society. Unfortunately there are many people who regard animal welfare matters as of secondary importance relative to human welfare, as petty or trivial acts not requiring serious attention. This article hopes to improve the general understanding of the extent which human and animal welfare issues overlap and are inextricably intertwined. The research briefly reviewed above indicates that there is a need in South Africa to pay more attention to animal welfare issues as part of broader social justice and crime prevention initiatives. In particular, police, prosecution and judicial officers would benefit from education and training on the aetiology and dynamics of animal abuse and mistreatment and its relevance for human behaviour, particularly criminal behaviour. In addition, there must be better coordination between service providers such as NICRO, animal welfare organisations, the Department of Social Development, the police and prosecution in dealing with acts of animal abuse and mistreatment, child abuse and domestic violence (FR Ascione et al op cit). In addition, funders of crime prevention projects should begin to consider funding interventions that focus on animal welfare issues as well as general lifeskills as standard crime prevention initiatives.

Conclusion

This article provided a brief summary of the current literature on the linkages between animal abuse and mistreatment and human aggression and violence. It is important that South African criminal justice stakeholders become increasingly aware of the significance of animal abuse and its implications for criminal behaviour and crime prevention initiatives. It is hoped that future cases of animal abuse and mistreatment will receive more careful attention, as they deserve.

Regan Jules-Macquet BA (Hons) (UCT) is a project manager at NICRO in Cape Town.

Source: www.saflii.org