The National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) notes the guilty verdict and sentence imposed in an animal cruelty case involving the severe neglect of pigs, where the offender was fined R2,000 or sentenced to eight (8) months’ imprisonment, wholly suspended for three (3) years. He was further declared unfit to possess a firearm.
On 14 September 2023, while conducting proactive inspections, Senior Inspector Coetzee from the NSPCA’s Farm Animal Protection Unit investigated a complaint in the Dealesville area of the Free State. The complaint related to an overpowering stench emanating from pig pens, with reports of dead animals on the property.
Upon inspection, the Inspector found pigs in a shocking state of neglect. Several animals were severely underweight and suffering from painful skin conditions, with crusted, inflamed skin consistent with prolonged exposure to the sun and untreated wounds. Dead pigs were discovered inside the pens, and surviving pigs were observed feeding on the carcasses, a clear indicator of their extreme hunger and inadequate feeding.
Further inspection revealed that the pigs had no access to water. Containers in the pens were empty and lined with dry dirt, indicating that water had not been provided for some time. There was no shelter to protect the animals from the elements, and several pigs showed signs of severe sunburn.
Senior Inspector Coetzee attempted to educate and guide the owner on the proper care of pigs; however, the owner responded dismissively, laughing and stating that he was going to sleep and that his time should not be wasted.
A follow-up inspection was later conducted under warrant, with the South African Police Service present. No improvements had been made. When questioned, the owner again stated that he had been sleeping.
As a result, 11 pigs were seized. One severely weakened sow was humanely euthanised on site to prevent further suffering. The remaining pigs were examined by the State Veterinarian, who confirmed that they were underweight and suffering from injuries and untreated skin conditions.
The NSPCA remains deeply disturbed by the extent of suffering endured by these animals. Being forced to live among dead companions and driven by starvation to eat them is a level of cruelty that is entirely preventable and utterly unacceptable. This conviction affirms that such conduct constitutes a criminal offence and will be met with legal consequences.
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