Animal rescue authorities have reported two attempted armed robberies, allegedly by a pet owner linked to a dog fighting ring, after five wounded animals were removed.
The Cape of Good Hope SPCA says they have seen an increase in dog fighting and have laid charges against seven owners.
The SPCA in Grassy Park says one of the owners allegedly threatened staff with a dangerous weapon and wanted to assault them as he attempted to steal the animals which were confiscated in March.
Some of the dogs are said to be American pit bulls and were found with old and new wounds, suggesting a history of dog fighting and abuse.
The SPCA has now called in anti-dog fighting advocates, TV presenter Vanessa Haywood-Sandes and Ryan Sandes, a renowned SA trail runner and athlete.
They are now part of a campaign called “Don’t Make Me Fight, Rather Fight For Me”.
In an advertisement, the duo themselves depict dog fighting, while honde look on as the spectators.
Tara McGovern, Communications and Resource Development Assistant for the Cape of Good Hope, says they have opened cases against seven males who are the owners and co-owners of the dogs.
The men will be facing charges under the Animal Protection Act.
“We can confirm that charges have been laid against all seven males involved on the grounds of illegal dog fighting in contravention of the Animals Protection Act,” she says.
“Anyone found to be participating in dog fighting and spectators to dog fighting will be charged in contravention of the Animals Protection Act.
“The animals displayed scarring and bite wounds which were both old and new.
“This indicated a history of regular dog fighting and abuse.”
She says one of the co-accused has twice already broken into the SPCA kennels in an attempt to steal the dogs and he threatened the lives of staff with a deadly weapon.
“This particular person has known links to organised dog fighting,” adds Tara.
She says the dogs are not coping well because of the effects of the blood sport.
“Currently the five dogs confiscated remain in the safekeeping of the Cape of Good Hope SPCA. However, they are not adjusting well to the kennels and exhibit extreme aggression due to their history of dog fighting and abuse."
Tara says dog fighting is a big concern and costs millions to investigate.
“Each investigation into dog fighting carries an enormous cost, the Cape of Good Hope SPCA spends approximately R3.2 million annually to investigate,” she says.
She says dog fighting on a larger scale takes place even in front of children and promotes drug trade and prostitution, as the stakes will include sexual favours and drug bets.