INSPECTORATE

The SPCA is mandated by law to support the South African Police Service (SAPS) in enforcing legislation that protects our animals, and this is where the inspectorate comes in. The inspectorate is the law enforcement unit of the SPCA, and its main task is to investigate the neglect of and cruelty to animals, and take appropriate action. When we receive information on a case of animal cruelty, a trained inspector visits the scene and investigates the complaint or report. They analyse the situation and then take appropriate action.

 

This action could include:

• Issuing a warning to the owner to take corrective action, and a follow-up visit to check on the animal’s welfare.

• Removing the animal to our centre

• In cases of outright abuse or wilful neglect, the inspector will seize the animal and instigate criminal charges against the owner.