Reporting Animal Cruelty |

The article below is offered as guidance to members of the public wishing to report cases of ‘cruelty’ to animals. The telephone number of the nearest SPCA will be found in the telephone directory under “Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals” or “SPCA”.

Members of the public sometimes witness acts of cruelty to animals and, appalled by what they see, phone the SPCA to report them. Often however, the information that they are able to give, is not enough to enable the Inspector assigned to the case to investigate it thoroughly, and even if legal action is warranted, lack of information impedes successful prosecution.

So, what should you do if you see or learn of cases of cruelty?
Well, quite obviously each case is different, and specific action does not necessarily apply in every case; but, in general terms, here is what you should do:

Firstly if the cruelty is something that can be stopped immediately, then stop it. If, for example, a horse or a dog is being unmercifully beaten, intervene if you can safely do so.
Of course the sort of person who would mistreat an animal this way would be quite likely to vent his anger on anyone who interferes, and members of the public should use discretion.
Few occasions arise when a camera is readily available, but if there should be one, photographs are useful evidence.

You will then want to phone the SPCA
Before doing so, be ready to give as much of the following information as possible:
Your name, address and telephone number. This is necessary for record purposes and also enables the Inspector to inform you of the result of his/her investigation.

It is stressed that the policy of the SPCA is to treat all complaints in strict confidence.

Names of complainants are not divulged to anybody unless such complainant has no objection.

The name (s), address (es) and telephone number (s) of the person involved.
The date, time and place of the offence.
The names, addresses and telephone numbers of any witnesses.
State whether you would be prepared to testify in a court of law.

Then give a detailed description of what you saw, as factually and unemotionally as you are able. This is important, for emotion clouds coherence, and important details may be omitted.
And finally, don’t be afraid to get involved in any legal proceedings which may ensure.
After all, if you feel strongly enough to report the matter in the first place, you should be prepared to assist us do whatever has to be done to set the matter right and bring offenders to justice.

FIREWORKS
(and how they affect our animals)
Chapter 19:09
The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (Section 3:1e, f)
Any person who: (e) wantonly or unreasonably does or causes or procures the commission of any act likely to infuriate or terrify any animal; or (f) being the owner permits in any manner aforesaid any unnecessary suffering to be caused to any animal or permits such animal to be infuriated or terrified as aforesaid;

PYROTECHNICS (“ORGANISED DISPLAYS”)

The SPCA movement said in the past that it preferred organized fireworks events to the random, individual use of fireworks. But this cannot be taken to mean that pyrotechnics events meet with SPCA approval. In fact, it is our opinion that the vast majority of them are inappropriate and that each one should be judged on its own merits.

Perhaps this is another example of events or issues when the SPCA says, “It may be legal but we strongly oppose.” If you do too, then please do not be afraid to make your view known to the organizer (shopping Centre etc.), local newspapers, councilors in your area and the community whose peace will be shattered by the planned event.

Never underestimate the power of public opinion. And, it’s never too soon to start lobbying. If this year’s event disturbed you, let them know NOW before they plan next year’s event. Stay positive. Tell them how much support will be given if they abandon fireworks.

YOUR PETS

Not left to the end because of lack of importance but because we are sick and tired of telling responsible people how to care for traumatized pets, when we should be telling people they are breaking the law and ought to wake up and be responsible.

Our handy guide to pet owners is below: –

Ensure all animals have identification.
If possible, stay home with them if you suspect fireworks fiends are about.
If you can’t be home with them, keep them inside and preferably in a room such as the kitchen where the windows are higher (and more difficult to jump through)
Attempt to mask any noise by drawing curtains and playing calming music at a reasonable volume.
Put familiar and comforting things around them such as toys, baskets etc.
Provide them with something to do such as giving your dog a chewy bone or lots of catnip or a catnip toy for felines.
If your pets do react badly to fireworks, then seek professional advice from your veterinarian.
Why not ensure your pets have a hearty and nutritious meal around nightfall. This will make them more likely to be sleepy

SPCA MEMBER SOCIETY CONTACT NUMBERS:

Harare SPCA 576356/7, 0773-275608
Harare SPCA Kennels 0712 – 211900
Harare SPCA…..Cnr George Rd/Airport Rd, Hatfield.

OTHER AREAS
Mutare SPCA                                 020-63679,60205
Bulawayo SPCA                              09-66593,66578
Gweru SPCA                                           054-223276
Kwekwe SPCA                                          055-22053
Chinoyi SPCA                                       0773-542604
Kadoma SPCA                                         068-23015
Chegutu SPCA                     053-3905,0772-696309
Masvingo SPCA                                     039-263679
Zvishavane SPCA                057-2113,0773-882140

Like this: