The National Council does not stand opposed to working animals subject to welfare standards being met. These standards include appropriate housing, rest periods, nutrition and health, environmental enrichment and adequate exercise for non-operational dogs and horses as well as the use of humane training methods and equipment.
Monitoring, maintaining, and improving these standards are the main reasons for the NSPCA inspecting dogs and horses used for safeguarding, whilst they are both on and off duty.
The NSPCA is in communication with PSIRA (Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority) and have assisted to review the current regulations on the handling and care of security animals within their service in terms of the Private Security Industry Regulation Act no 56 of 2001. These regulations will go a far way in improving the welfare of working animals and ensure standardisation across the board.
The Performing Animals Protection Act No. 24 of 1935 (PAPA) enforces the annual licence applications for the use of animals for training and safeguarding within the industry. This licence is obtainable from the Department of Agriculture Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD).
Although the PAPA only makes provision for Private Security services to obtain a license, the South African Police, Law Enforcement, Correctional Services, SA Navy and Defence Force may be excluded from this specific piece of legislation, however the Animals Protection Act No. 71 of 1962 still applies to them and is enforced where necessary.
When you come across any animals used for safeguarding and you are concerned for the wellbeing of the animals being used, please report it to your local SPCA or Contact Us with all the relevant details.
