CASE 1: This is an excerpt from the affidavit accompanying a charge laid against the Manager of the East London SPCA by Tessa van Heerden:
“Mrs Jean Button and I were attending to the feeding of cats and puppies and some compromised dogs. Mrs Button noticed that a healthy female dog from Kennel Q was in the process of giving birth to her puppies, and alerted me. I asked Mrs Button to inform the Manager, Mr. L Taylor to this fact, which she did. On my way to kennel Q I noticed Mr. Taylor was on his way there with a lead in his hands. Mr. Taylor got to Kennel Q before I did, so when I got there he had already put a collar and lead on the female dog. She appeared reluctant to leave the kennel, as 2 puppies had already been born. Mr. Taylor forcibly removed her from the kennel, trying to make her to walk, which she was unable to do. He was determined to get her to follow him but she could not as it appeared as if she was about to give birth to another puppy. He then continued to apply force, trying without success to make her move in the direction of the clinic. This female dog, tried to respond to his dragging as best she could, but for most of the way was forcibly pulled along by Mr. Taylor. It looked like she was bearing down about to have another puppy so she was unable to comply. While Mr. Taylor was dragging her along Mrs. Button and I tried to intervene, pleading with him to stop using force on this poor defenceless animal. He was extremely angry, and told us not to interfere. We tried to pick her up, and this made him even more angry. Mr. Taylor refused to let us assist with her removal to the clinic. We were prepared to carry her but he was determined to get her there by forcefully pulling her. She was terrified by his actions resulting in unnecessary suffering when she was at her most vulnerable. We begged him to leave her to finish having her puppies in the kennel, when it was obvious she was still in the birthing process. For a large dog having given birth to only 2 puppies at this stage, it was evident that there were still more puppies to be born. We again pleaded with Mr. Taylor to leave the dog, and that we would assist her. Mr. Taylor became extremely angry by our appeals and continued dragging the animal the rest of the +- 50m from Kennel Q , across grass and concrete pathways to the clinic door. Mrs. Button then rushed to kennel Q to remove her 2 newborn puppies. On that day the euthanasia process for other animals was underway in the clinic. About two minutes later Mr. Taylor emerged from the clinic and approached us and the look of fury was evident when he saw Mrs. Button holding the 2 new born puppies. She pleaded with him not to harm the female dog and the puppies. He snatched them from her hands and proceeded back towards the clinic with them. The time lapse between him entering the clinic with the birthing dog and returning for her 2 puppies was too short for him to ascertain any complications which may have occurred during the birthing process. Both Mrs. Button and I were there the whole time and witnessed everything that transpired. At no time did Mr. Taylor show compassion or concern for the mother or the puppies. It was evident to us that he was determined to complete the process of euthanasia of her and her puppies. This was a healthy dog, who had already had 2 live puppies with no evidence of any birthing difficulty prior to her extremely cruel treatment by Mr Taylor. Neither the female dog, nor her puppies were seen alive again.”
When an SPCA Manager can commit such an act of cruelty with impunity, there is something wrong with the organisation in which it occurs, and the governance systems employed. To quote Tessa van Heerden’s affidavit again:
“The reason I am only laying charges now, is because it was reported to the NSPCA, who should have dealt with the matter but are either unable or unwilling to do so. . According to the EL SPCA’s Disciplinary Code under section (h) Breach of SPCA Policies and Ethics section 1 and 6, Mr Taylor should immediately have been dismissed for his actions under both sections. Apparently no action was taken against Mr. Taylor by the NSPCA.”
This raises some critical questions concerning the NSPCA, about which there is a growing dossier of not only questionable ethics, but illegal activities.
CASE 2: Following is a response from Randburg SPCA to a series of emails which made the rounds recently, depicting dogs on ‘death row’. The SPCA was not mentioned in the email:
“To whom it may concern
I have read the various email’s which are circulating regarding the devious manner in which people intend to adopt dogs from the Randburg SPCA. Due to these devious way’s, these animals are no longer on our adoption list as we cannot be sure if a legitimate family is adopting them or an animals ”hoarder” is.
You had no right to take photos of our animals and then to put there photos under the ridiculous heading “on death row”. The Randburg SPCA has a sign stating that photos are NOT to be taken. Many of the dogs you say are” on death row” have homes and the new owners are now reconsidering adopting the dogs because of the big scene which has been made about their dogs. The cross Belgium shepherd as you so incorrectly stated, actually is my dog and I do not appreciate it being stating my dog is “on death row”.
If you do not stop circulating these photos immediately I will have choice but to persue legal action against yourself.
It is disappointing to know that there are people in the community who would rather suppress an animals to living in “hoarder” conditions rather being adopted to a loving family. Each animal is special to us and we will go to any length to ensure our animals are homed correctly and do not get passed from pillar to post cause people are taking then because someone has worked on their conscience.”
The following questions seem appropriate:
- What right does the SPCA have to remove these animals from the adoption list, thereby allowing time to elapse towards the 96 hour cutoff, at which point they may, as the pound, ‘dispose of as they see fit’, which we know means euthanasia? Purely because other people are trying to spread the word that these animals need homes, why must the animals pay, in their case the ultimate penalty?
- Why, if people are advertising these animals, should this place them at risk of getting not getting placed with a legitimate family, or getting placed with a ‘hoarder’? Does the SPCA not conduct home checks?
- The label ‘death row’ is COMPLETELY appropriate. We know that any animals arriving at an SPCA have 96 hours to live, in most cases, and in some cases, for example when a breed arrives that the SPCA has a prejudice against, even less if the animal arrives sick…
- Why should the prospective ‘new owners’ (always supposing these actually existed) suddenly reconsider because the animals had been advertised? What sane person would reason that because an animal they had applied to adopt had been advertised, they now no longer want to adopt them? Ridiculous. In addition, this Manager would have us believe that the SPCA keeps prospective adopters updated concerning events related to the animals. This would be incompatible with experiences we have had, where animals have been put down when there have been people ready to take them home, or other instances where lost animals have been discovered at an SPCA after it was denied that they were there.
- WHY is it that the SPCA (and the NSPCA, for that matter) are so quick to threaten legal action? Imagine if they spent the money they are willing to invest in the SPCA image on the animals instead?
The next day, another person went to the Randburg SPCA, and this is an excerpt from her report:
“When I enquired why, a lady by the name of Cynthia told me that they were “just not available”. I continued to ask if they were sick as they were not in the quarantine area and she said “NO, just not available”. They had put red stickers saying ‘Not available’ in the file on the dogs pages which were on the list.”
Effectively, if anyone wanting any of those animals during this period, potentially good homes would have been passed up by the SPCA. If any of the animals have subsequently been euthanized, this can hardly be attributed to those trying to save them, but to the stupid, short-sighted, arrogant policies of the SPCA.
We have it on good authority that individual SPCA’s do not set these policies, they are set by the NSPCA, the governing body of SPCA’s in South Africa.
The behaviour of the East London and Randburg SPCA Managers is an indication that something is dreadfully amiss within the organisation looked upon by the public as the defenders of animal welfare in this country. These events are not isolated, as has been seen in recent times, and it is time that these events were scrutinised.
We believe that it has become a matter of urgency for a formal investigation of the NSPCA and its Management, since we believe they have lost sight of their mandate.
96 Comments
This is totally unacceptable from an institution that is SUPPOSED to protect animals. These people need to be prosecuted at the highest level and severely punished. I have dealt with the Randburg SPCA on quite a few occassions and their ‘superior’ attitude of they know best while I am just an ignorant pleb that knows nothing has made me vow never to have anything to do with them again. I will give my support to and adopt my animals from worthier rescue societies.
Prosecute these people and make them suffer the way those in their care ae suffering
Never hold a grudge against an organisation because of one person. The SPCA does a wonderful job, and rescue’s thousands of animals throughout RSA. Before placing comments like this, make sure of the facts.
Sorry have to disagree here – they give the impression that they are doing a wonderful job – if you look a little deeper you will know what i mean. But we are open to our opinions.
Mr Taylor if I come accross you or 1 of your family members I would love to do the same to you and them you disgusting piece of shit!
Before you point fingers buck….. why dont you come to the meetings and see how the stupid woman that wrote the story act like a mad cow and just because she COULD NOT GET THE SPCA in a corner in the meeting and everything was open to her…. she had nothing but to run stories to the press ext and make people like you upset to the wrong people…… You really get “brainless People” like her that got nothing better to do with her life than make others getting accused??? WELL DONE TO MR. TAYLOR ( NOW I KNOW ) FOR DOING A BRILLIANT JOB, ALL OF YOU !!!!!!!!!!!!! IM ALWAYS THERE TO CHECK UP AND YOU GUYS ARE THE BEST……. Remember GOD WILL BE THE ONE TO JUDGE THEM THAT LIE…. God bless you all at the SPCA for doing a great job….. sorry can not say the same on the volunteers….. and Tessa………….. hey I sat next to you in the meeting, next time consentrate what is said then shaking your head…. take a chill pill !!!!!!!!!!!!
Hi Vicky, Interesting comments dear, but I have in my possession a copy of an e-mail that has been sent to the “Taylor Support Groupies” and in this e-mail he has admitted that the incident happened ……. but maybe not on the date mentioned. As the e-mail stated: “Bearing in mind that this happened over a year ago, and the volume of dogs handled in a year, it is extremely difficult to give an exact date. HOWEVER, an incident DID occur on a week-end when Mr. Taylor was on duty and Mrs. Button reported to him that a dog was birthing in the kennels. Mr Taylor went to check on her status and to make arrangements for he to transfer to the hospital kennel. He found that she had given birth to one live and one dead puppy. ……….. Mr Taylor WAS CONCERNED ABOUT HER CONDITION SO HE LEASHED THE DOG AND WALKED IT SLOWLY TO THE HOSPITAL. IF A DOG WILL NOT WALK, IT WILL BE PICKED UP – IT WILL NOT BE DRAGGED, EVER”………
Now, Let’s deal with these comments:
1. He admits it happened, and he WAS there, and he handled the dog himself.
2. He admits it was a long time ago and it’s “extremely difficult to give an exact date” Thanks for that Lional ….. so what WAS the date this incident happened……. as you stress proper records are kept. What is a week-end either side of that date, when you consider what you did to this dog. Easy to get all the records for Kennel “Q” (if these are
kept up to date)
3. Anyone who knows ANYTHING about female dogs will know that she would not be able to walk if she was expelling a puppy, and also not want to leave the puppies she had already had, (2 were alive by the way according to Mrs. Button)so why did he insist on putting her on a leash???? The kennel is about 50m from the clinic door …..I paced it myself the other day. Why would an experienced Kennel Manager ( which i have heard repeatedly he is/was) subject this dog to this sort of treatment? WHY was she not carried? Why was she not even put into a wheelbarrow if he did not want to carry her, which clearly he didn’t? There are enough of those around to cart the dead animals from the clinic to the freezer/incinerator, so again, WHY didn’t he help this animal. Any woman out there who has had a baby will identify with this poor dog and the inhumane way she was treated at a time she was most vulnerable. Also, this was because “MR. TAYLOR WAS CONCERNED ABOUT HER CONDITION” I would hate to see what he does to animals he is not concerned about when he forces a birthing female dog to “walk” 50m. Now Vicky, I was also at that AGM, and you know as well as I do how the meeting was rigged to prevent tooooooo many questions on certain things. When the going got hot, the meeting was closed and all further questions we were told to send to the committee …..what a joke! Anyway, if you are a paid up member of the ELSPCA dear, you will also be invited to the Special General Meeting we will be calling shortly, after all, we only need 15 members, according to the Constitution …………………….Let the games begin! “Help for the Helpless”
DONT EVER THREATEN A FAMILY when you do not know the whole story. How dare you! How would you like your family threatened for something you may or may not have done – you are the disgusting piece of shit!
Why do people always jump the gun? Everyone are quick to make accusations but do not have the facts. The SPCA as an organisation does so good job in all the communities, preventing cruelty to ALL animals, where as some of the other animal welfare organisations only works with dogs and cats. The SPCA does a good job and I would like to thank all the SPCA inspectors for doing such a gr8 job in animal welfare. Keep up the good work.
I live in the Benoni Area in Gauteng, and have also heard dreasdful stories from people who have been badly treated when even trying to adopt an animal. I have myself checked to see if an animal has been picked up told explicitly NO and when i have gone in to physically check the animal is there, they are lazy!
I knew someone who worked at the SPCA who was instructed to dispose of 2 of a litter of 4 perfectly healthy puppies. When she pleaded for their lives she was told do as you are told or you are fired, she subsequently resigned.
I urge people to get to know their local SPCA before they leave an animal there. Agreed you cannot judge them all as the same, but lets make them accountable and visit the branch before we rely on them, the one in your area may be better.
Bear in mind it is not the SPCAs fault that they euthanize animals, in fact, it is our fault as members of the public who do not sterilize their animals. Euthanasia is a painless death and at the end of the day if you think logically about it and put all emotions aside, the big question is, ‘WHAT IS IN THE BEST INTREST OF THE ANIMALS?’ Do you think it is fair to leave an animal in a cage for a period of time to stress unnecessarily or rather putting him out of his misery? SPCAs only have limited resources and only have so many kennels and can house only a certain amount of animals, so if they do not euthanize animals, where would the rest of the unwanted, stray and abused animals end up if the SPCAs facilities are full?
Will they end up dead next to the road or even worst, get beaten, kicked, chained-up on a pole, or left to die of starvation? Think of the good work the SPCA does
Rudi, I do realize the the blame lays with the animal owner, but do you not agree that euthanasia is to be done in the most humane way possible, which is certainly not the case, when reading these horrendous stories about Mr Taylor at the East London SPCA. I think by the sounds of it, he is one of many employed at the SPCA’s that needs to be dismissed and never to be seen near an animal again.
Like I said, you guys must make sure of the facts, please contact the NSPCA and get the facts from them.
I cried when I read this. What they hell are these obviously not Animal Lovers doing running the SPCA’s. Mr. Taylor can be very lucky I was not there to witness such horrendous cruelty. If this is going on at one SPCA what is going on in the rest.
I cannot believe that I have put all my trust, donations iand support into SPCA’s, and standing up for them against everyone that has had something bad to say. I am horrified about everything I read or hear of late, about SPCA’s in general.
We see so much cruelty to animals outside of the SPCA, and do not expect to see it at the SPCA. SOMETHING NEEDS TO BE DONE. PLEASE GET THESE SO CALLED ANIMAL LOVERS OUT OF THE SPCA’S.
The allegations are one sided. Has anyone thought to phone the SPCA or NSPCA to get the facts. The truth is, Tessa Van Heerden was a volunteer at the SPCA who due to many contraventions was forcibly told that she was no longer welcome at the society. Her comments are the rantings of a bitter, spiteful & vengeful woman and a blatant lie.
All I have to say about this matter, is by the looks of things it is not only an isolated case at the EL SPCA, you cant blame all the other people who have had traumatic inciidents wih the SPCA. All you need to do is read further on, and see how many people have had problems with different SPCA’s.
Jackie, get your facts right before you comment! You sure to believe a lier like Tessa, darm girl you going nowhere in life if you believe ever lie that gets told….. always 2 sides of the story…. they want people like you to get upset…. amazing if you ask the liers if they would help ???? NO they to good to do such a thing? Thank you for your support and I will cont. supporting them aswell. Sad that people talk so much shit and do not have a life…..
Vicky, like I said, East London is not an isolated case, all you need to do is read the comments on different SPCA’s. Surely not everyone are liers. And please refrain from telling me I am going nowwhere in life (Perhaps you should look at your facts). Just a little insight about myself, I am very involved in our local SPCA, and do everything I can to help, from donations to picking up stray and injured animals. So yes when I read stories like this, it upsets me terribly.
Hi Jackie, I have not slept for the last 3 weeks since I have been involved with this case at the ELSPCA. I understand your aguish, I have felt it too, and have gone through what this dog went through again, and again, and again. We are trying to make a difference down here (see my response to Vicky) and if NSPCA will not/cannot do it, the law must take its course. Caring people like yourself, need to get involved as we have, and yes, it’s not easy, but unless you make a stand for the animals who have no voice, you will forever wonder if you could have changed the lot of even one of these wretched creatures. Let’s all help to give them a “Second Chance” like the East London Pet Pals are doing. They go each day, and walk all the dogs, bring them tit-bits and extra food (cooked rice and chicken livers) spend time getting to know each one, and most of all actively try to find homes for them, which the SPCA does not do. You can now understand their distress when perfectly healthy animals are put down indiscriminately, instead of finding them homes. They know and love each of those animals as if they were their own, which is more than I can say for the rest of the place. They have openly said “we are not a welfare organization, and homing an animal is not in our mandate”
The staff at the ELSPCA never take the animals out of their cages, except if they are on their way to the clinc/freezer/incinerator, so they would never get any excercise if it was not for these girls. I salute you East London Pet Pals, I admire what you are doing under very trying circumstances at the moment, and may you go from strength to strength in you quest to make the difficult time in the kennels a little easier for these poor defenceless creatures..
Hi Marlene, I thank God every day for people like you, its a pity we dont have more compasionate humans involved in our animal welfare. I am afraid they are very few and far between. And yes I do know how heart breaking it is to be involved with these desperate creatures of God, and also what it is like to deal with the barbaric behaviour of mankind. To all those creatures who have had to deal with these cruel acts, may you be at peace now, never to know suffering and pain again. To the East London Pet Pals and any oher organization involved in Animal Welfare for the right reasons I salute you
The information was taken directly from the affidavit for the criminal act Taylor was charged with, and it was witnessed by two people, Rudi.
Your beliefs concerning the SPCA are incompatible with the reality. There are definitely some that do a great job, most definitely do not. This is just the tip of the iceberg. Watch this space…
Oh and incidentally Rudi the SPCA euthanases many more animals than it homes – ask them for statistics…
I do not disagree that they euthanise more animals then rehoming, but there are only limited homes for the animals, so something must be done and someone must step in, so do you rather want the SPCAs to over crowd their kennels and ot euthanise, which will cause more suffering to the animals, or do you wat the SPCAs to refuse to take in more animals? and let ther restof the animals suffer next to the road, or leave them to be abused?
Rudi,
When the SPCA proactively start to rehome animals, maybe then you could argue your point.
The SPCA do not actively nor proactively do ANYTHING to rehome animals. They cannot even justify their reasons for the public not being allowed to take photos of their inmates.
They are inhumane and lost sight long ago of their very purpose for their existance.
Please dont tell me to verify my facts either, I have been in rescue work for many, many years, and know exactly how most of these death camps operate their branches and their euthanisia stats too, which are staggering.
The SPCA feel it is easier to euthanise most animals in their clutches, its the path to least resistance.
Hi Dee, I have tried to get those statistics at the last AGM to no avail. Was told it was not the place to deal with that. Wonder where you are supposed to then? If I look at their stats, some months it can be as high as 80 % that they are euthanising. Remeber, they are not a “Welfare Organization” Homing is not part of their directive…..clearly euthanasia is far easier …. Wonder how many animals are advertised before they do the deed, as they are supposed to by lay according to the Act …………..must look at that one …….. “Help for the Helpless”
angry reader, are you suggesting that BOTH witnesses imagined these events or are BOTH bitter, spiteful & vengeful womem?
The so called witness is a friend of tessa’s who will back her up no matter what she says. I have nothing against her, she should just grow a pair and tell the truth instead of hanging on Tessa’s apron strings.
If a I say a friend and myself saw you beating a dog to death, would that make it automatically true, since there were 2 people that said so?
I hardly think she (Tessa) would go to such effort and lengths to make such problems for herself to go to such an extent to report this. You want to tell me that those comments in favour of this manager at ELS SPCA here are not friends of the alleged guilty party????
Puleeease…..
Yes some of us are friends of Lionel and proud to be. We know him better than anyone and know that he would never handle a dog like that whether giving birth or not. His wife and himself give everything of them selves to the SPCA. He doesn’t just work 8 to 5 he works 24 hrs a day most days and he does it because he loves animals. These accusations are hurting him and his family, they give so much to the animal world and this is the thanks they get. People threatening him and his family. You should be ashamed of yourselves. How would you feel in his position?
Well, ineresting comment, but read my extracts from the “Taylor”s Support” e-mail, where he HAS ADMITTED IT ALL HAPPENED – just maybe not on that date (give a week-end or 2 either side of the date – who cares) He DID leash a birthing dog, a make her “WALK” 50m to the clinic door. Now come on, let’s get real here, if you were having a baby, would you be able to be walking around while bearing down……???? “Help for the Helpless”
If you see the woman that so called witnessed this ….. i leave my case? Few screws loose??
I find it incredibly difficult to believe that Tessa and Co will go to the lengths of going to the police and opening a criminal case against Mr. Taylor full well knowing the consquences that can face if this goes to court and they are caught lying under oath, AND filing false claims against the SPCA.
Has Mr. Taylor or anyone else present that day denied that he took a pregnant dog in labour to be put down? Has he denied taking the two born pups and euthanising them? It seems the only people refuting what happened are people who were not present on the day.
For those slandering the names of the two women who believed they witnessed a crime and stood up for what they believed is right – be very, very careful. You sound crazier than those you think have lost the plot.
Actuallly the affidavit was prepared in consultation with a Judge. These people went to great lengths to make sure that what they were saying was factual and legal and did not distort the events in any manner…
I guess you haven’t seen my latest reply Vicky, you may want to change your tune then, and perhaps open your eyes to what is actually happening here. Forget the personal vendetta gainst someone who has had the courage of her convictions to stand up for these animals (this one in particular) and put herself on the line for the backlash this is creating. For once consider the animals, and not the selfish motives here. I admire what she has done, normally when you stand, you stand alone, but in this fight, she has enormous support from all over the country and from all spheres. From Judges, to advocates and lots of others inbetween. People are already donating money for her legal costs should this go to court, as this is really only the tip of the iceberg. so let the games begin…… “Help for the Helpless”,
Nikki, Tessa and Co will go to the lengths of going to the police… where have you been in this world? People do things like this because they dont have a life… ask me I know. You go to a small town and live there and see what comes out then… Small town syndrome delux! Ya they will do it!
If I ever come face to face with that $%%^^%£@@££!!!! I swear I will rip his balls off and feed them to the dogs!!!!!
Pleasant imagery. Nice to know you have an imagination. Too bad no common sense. Get the facts, the TRUE facts before you make stupid comments like that. Like I said previously, phone the SPCA or NSPCA for the truth, and not listen to the rantings of some crazy woman.
Like the SPCA are going to admit to this charge – yeah right!
Can just see that happening. They will be hastily covering everything up… damage control (again).
angry reader you are surely not suggesting that the NSPCA always tell the truth? They have been lying to the public for a long long time, and when you know the truth you will be disgusted with them and your own gullibility.
Hi Angry Reader, What “True facts” are you referring to? Do you mean the e-mail I have in my possession where he has admitted that this happened, and he was the one pulling a leashed birthing dog (50m – I paced the distance mysel) to the clinic door …because he was concerned about her ….. you mean THOSE facts?????? See my reply to Vicky today and take the rose coloured spectacles off, and see this for what it is: absolute cruelty of the worst kind perpetrated on a poor defenceless female at her most vulnerable time ….. giving birth. And forcing her to leave 2 newborn puppies behind ………………What sort of a creature IS this? Maybe euthanasia would be an option for him after dragging him on a leash for 50m? May the law take it’s full course and make an example of him. “Help for the Helpless”
My my my!! Another SPCA Scandall. Oh its all good and well saying what a fine chap Lionel is, and that this woman is just bitter, we hear the sour grapes story time and time again, its the favourate excuse of the NSPCA each time these according to them “one off” incidents occur. The majority response to this article by the general public has been one of totall……………… Why are we not surprised!! So why do the SPCA and NSPCA now have this reputation??????? A few bitter ex staff members??? Or would it be that stories like this continue to roll in on a day to day basis. Yes, bless those who are working at the SPCA for the right reasons and love animals, but the evidence is starting to reveal that their are many that dont. How do they get their jobs? How are they screened? Or cader employment like the ANC?? Give your mate a job? Something is very wrong with the entire SPCA and NSPCA set up at the moment and that is clear. As Dee said, this is just the tip of the iceberg, the stories with evidence coming in to us over the passed few years is shocking and its also re occuring. If this where just a once off case the pill rudi you are trying to offer us might just have been easier to swallow!!!
All those that say bad things of SPCA, hope you asses got money and big big farm because of your lies the SPCA could close then guess what….. IM DROPPING THE STRAY ANIMAL OFF BY YOU !!!!!!!!!!!!! Hope you gona be happier then? Start saving I got already 3 coming your way !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Would gladly have taken them, but sadly due to you friends at the nspca, we can only have 3 dogs on our property now. Oh, yes how can i forget, whats up with the SPCA allegedly sending letters to all the pro life centres in their areas demanding all strays be handed over as its their property??? Are there murder stats not high enough yet? Or is it paid per corpse or is it selling the blood? Gosh, one just never knows now do they!!!!
Where did you hear about these letters? If I can have a copy, that would be great because I am willing to take that further.
Hi Glen, I think you may be right. I read an article about the Kloof SPCA (I think that was the one, where they were killing cat colonies and collecting money from the municipality for doing it … like Bounty Hunters??? Will try to find the article, but sure others have read it too.,
HI Vicky, clearly not got the message yet … read on dear … watch this space!
Hi Vicky, Guess what, It may just open again as an “Animal Sanctuary” where animals are not treated as numbers, where euthanasia is performed if and when it has to in a gentle quiet way, by individuals who love and care for animals. It could also be a place where people actively get involved to find the animals homes. Currently they say “we are not a welfare organization and homing is not part of our aim. It takes people like East London Pet Pals who go there daily, walk the dogs, get to know them and love them as their own. They sacrifice time and money to make a difference to these animals. They even take them tit bits and cooked rice and chicken livers, and treat them as you would your own. Probably better than most people do treat their animals. If they were not there to do this, the only time those animals would leave those kennels would be to go to either the clinic/hospital for euthanasia or the freezer if it’s done already, and after that the incinerator. Yes, I understand there needs to be rules, but when you see the forms these people have had to sign, you would think they are applying for a position on a board of directors!! Strange, it’s only a recent thing too. Wonder how many other SPCA’s are fortunate enough to have ladies and gents like this, prepared to do what they do. For one, they are not allowed to discuss the animals with the public, which I find strange, as they are the only people interacting with these animals. The office staff and management have no idea what they’re like, as they never spend time with them. If I was going to adopt an animal there and I saw someone walking the doggy I wanted, of course I would ask the person what he/she’s like. Wouldn’t you? Now, they have been muzzled by some stupid rules made up by some paranoid individuals. They are now “employees” of the SPCA at the princly some of R10 an hour. They signed these documents under duress, because they wanted to still keep going for the animals. Oh yes, and they also can’t talk to the press either …. wonder why that clause? They can now only go 3 days a week…. and only in the mornings, and those who can’t work 3 days can come on Sat and Sunday and they only sign one page. Now, no-one is around in the afternoons…. no-one to see what’s happening. Oh yes, and you also have a Yard Manager who works there mornings only …..yes, you heard me correctly!!! Apparently goes off to run her other business in the afternoons. We are talking about quite a large facility with +- 160 dogs at any given time …. without boarders. This position was apparently never advertised either as is required by law…. funny that. What happens in the afternoons is anyone’s guess, no yard manager, no vet, no volunteers…….. how convenient, and how sad for any animals requiring assistance.
Soooooooooooooooo …… how about you Vicky joining those girls, putting on your tackies and jeans, be prepared to be jumped on, wee’ d on, get sunburnt and cold, in all kinds of weather, have your hands sticky with doggy tit bits, spit and kentucky chicken they feed the dogs they walk, all just to see the animals run around on the grass and just for a short time forget where they are and behave like normal dogs. All this for the princley sum of R10 an hour. I’m sure we’ll have volunteers lining up behind you … the pay is terrible, but the job satisfaction priceless!! And yes, if you bring them your stray animals, they probably WILL find them good loving homes, as they have all the others. All the adverts in the Go come form PET Pals …… Not the SPCA They are now compelled to put the SPCA logo on, and Pet Pals is not allowed to be featured.. I have observed them over a 2 week period I spent there every day, and I salute you EL Pet Pals, you are all absolutely amazing. Keep up the wonderful work! “Help for the helpless”
Ya Marlene, this fight can go on and on and on….. you know I ( in a way ) wish the spca close so then we all can look at the animals on the street know thanx to you that there is no home for them? I only got good things to say about the SPCA, coming from a coastal town close to EL and had many many rape dogs that they came to rescue and help at any time any day. See ya at the meeting…… let the fight begin…………….. heeee haaa
So am I correct in saying CRIMINAL charges have been brought against Mr. Taylor, at a police station?
Secondly – can you please post the communication with the NSPCA (their responses, etc)?
Saw an article in the east london news paper that charges have been laid and i believe this matter has gone to court. But once again, according to the NSPCA its sour grapes and an ex staff member with an axe to grind. Sorry but in my opinion that excuse is getting stale.
The ignorance of some of you is absolutely astounding. A case has NOT gone to court. The matter is being investigated by the Police. I have personally attended meetings with Tessa in order to try and address her long litany of complaints. Fact is she is not willing to follow the rules, she is not willing to learn – she is hellbeing on “taking the SPCA down” – at the last meeting I attended with her and EL committee, it was so embarrassing and we had to shut the meeting down after 2 hours because he got so hysterical that she became incoherent. Some of the things she complained about were ludicrous and proved to be untrue. She interferred with the staff, she interferred with the running of the Society and demanded to be heard even if the staff were busy assisting a client.
Fact: SPCA’s get a bad rap for their euthanasia figures but have any of the hysterical people amongst you stopped to consider that a large proportion of these animals come from outreach work done in townships – most of these animals come in mange ridden, emaciated, riddled with parvo or distemper and a large majority have TVT. Now what do you suggest we do? Let them continue to suffer? One may bring 200 animals back to the society from such an outreach and you may have to euthanase 180 of those animals – the figures look bad but what do we do? We don’t have the resources for the long term rehab it’s going to take, we are not guaranteed to find homes for these animals.
Your energies are better spend getting people to sterilise their animals instead of allowing them to belieeve it is their right to breed, it is their right not to sterilise their pets because the offspring will be given away or sold and then it is no longer their problem. Out of sight out of mind.
So please, before you all start dissing the SPCA and the people who have to do the work, spare a thought for the emotional wellbeing of these people. I admit many SPCA employees become very disillusioned with people – I am one of those volunteers. I have heard so many BS stories and excuses for why their animals are in the state they are in, why their animals are not sterilised, why they have to dump their animals – it makes me sick to my stomach. So you know what we do? We will just take in those animals because at least they will have a warm place to sleep, food to eat and they will be cared for. Just last week at my SPCA a gentleman driving a very fancy car came in with a dog which had an eye injury. The eye was bulging out of it’s socket. We do not have a vet but arranged for him to see a state vet – made the call, made the appointment – everything. You know what he did? Drove 2km up the road and threw the dog out of the car! Now how do you propose we deal with a person like this?
I am sick to death of ignorant people who have no interest in learning about what animal welfare people have to contend with and the circumstances they have to work under – just criticising and making threats,. In an ideal world,. we would have all the money and resources we need and we would help every animal that comes through our doors.
So to those of you who constantly bitch about SPCA’s and their employees, come and get your hands dirty and then you will be qualified to comment. Grow a pair and get involved – in my experience most of you “ciouldn’t bear to look at the cruelty”. Well you know what? We have to not only look at the cruelty but deal with arsehole owners and treat those animals or give them a painless dignified death. Go and spend one day at your local SPCA – just one day. I guarantee your rantings will change.
NSPCA PR Media Office:
In response to recent allegations by ex-volunteer Tessa van Heerden against the Manager of the East London SPCA concerning events which purportedly occurred early in 2009, all allegations were investigated and responded to in detail by the Society, exposing the vexatious and defamatory nature of the allegations which were being asserted by a former volunteer of the Society who had repeatedly violated the rehoming rules and standards of the Society, which included exposing the Society to possible criminal action, expulsion and closure by the NSPCA. As a result of her misconduct, the complainant was expelled as a volunteer, and East London SPCA subsequently became the recipient of spurious complaints and hate mail.
A meeting was held between the complainant and the Management Committee of East London SPCA in order to further address the allegations which had been directed at the Society and two further meetings were called by the NSPCA subsequent to this, at which Tessa was given every opportunity to substantiate the allegations being made, which she was unable to do. She could not provide accurate dates or evidence for any of the allegations.
Continuing to raise the matter with the NSPCA, Tessa was advised that the activities of the East London SPCA were governed by a democratically elected Management Committee and should the membership not be satisfied with the Committee’s management of the Society that the membership should call for the Committee to account for its actions at a General Meeting and if not satisfied were empowered to elect a new Committee. At the Annual General Meeting held in July, at which Tessa was present, the Committee was duly re-elected having again responded to all concerns raised.
Hi You all want the truth, so how about this: Maybe you all need to see the e-mail in my possession where he has admitted that the incident happened, that he WAS there that day, that he handled the dog himself, that he leashed a birthing dog and made her walk (50m I paced it myself) to the clinic door from kennel Q “because he was concerned about her”……………………………. etc, etc, etc 2 pages of absolute PRO and an attempt to vindicate his horrendous actions. This perpetrated by someone who is a manager of this facility. Staff on duty and Mrs. Jean Button also witnessed this, not only this “crazy lady” as everyone seems to be calling her. By the way, more affidavits will probably also be coming to confirm this … so watch this space ….Mrs. Rademeyer, as a representative of the NSPCA has clearly forgotten about all the concerns she raised with volunteers who met with her at her King Williamstown office. I wonder if she informed you at NSPCA about her discussion with them regarding the management and practices of the ELSPCA. She mentioned she had received numerous serious complaints regarding the ELSPCA. She also told them of concerns and evidence that the Buffalo City Municipality had relating to admissions of pound animals. Now this could just get interesting. By the way Mrs. Rademeyer, all these ladies are prepared to sign affidavits to this effect, so I find it quite interesting that you have come out in full support of the one person you were “concerned about”. If you all at the NSPCA had taken action at the time, he should have been instantly dismissed if you look at your own Disciplinary Code under section (h) Breach of SPCA Policies and Ethics section 1 and 6. Why was this not done ? Oh yes, I forgot, this is a domestic matter, and as such whatever NSPCA decide finally is law and that’s the end of the matter. But, what if you are aiding and abetting a criminal action, which this was according to section 2(b) of the Animal Protection Act No 71 of 1962 what then? Are you also lining up for the 6 strokes, the fine and the jail sentence …… could just get interesting!! You are NOT above the Law, even though you behave as if you are. This is only ONE incident at this ELSPCA …… the Pandora’s Box holds many more suprises, so hold on to your seats the ride could get a little rough ……. “Help for the Helpless.”
And what does Tessa have to say about their response and allegations in their response?
Tessa is standing by her affidavit, and in the e-mail I have in my possession he admits he was there, he leashed the birthing dog, he pulled/dragged it (50m paced it myself) to the clinic door, euthanaised it, together with its puppies, born and unborn. See my reply to Vicky of today’s date, I have included the full response. The incident happened, he did it, he just says it was not that day, which is not the point. If you had been as distressed as these two women who had witnessed this, I think you could also maybe have made a mistake with the date. Anyway.she needs all the support she can get …. a brave lady to stand up to the “powers that be” Help for the Helpless”.
Seems to me that this is a very one sided story, has anyone gotten the SPCA’s version yet?
Um RJF – see above. Their response.
HI, Which version would you like…… theirs, or the TRUTH? He has admitted that he leashed and pulled (“walked it slowly”) – HIS version – how do you slowly walk a birthing dog over that distance,( 50m I paced myself) bearing in mind you are taking her away from her 2 newborn puppies. Why not put them all in a wheelbarrow, or at least carry her?????? Put yourself in her position ….If you’ve had a baby, I don’t need to take you down that road do I? “Help for the Helpless”
Annette – I thought education about sterilization is the SPCA’s job? They’re so quick to say that they are the only organisation who offers community education?
We all promote sterilization – I don’t know of a rightist or welfarist who doesn’t.
Can you please elaborate on your statements about Tessa:
1. do you have proof that she is “hell bent” on taking the SPCA down? It makes no sense to me that someone would volunteer at an organisation they want to “take down”.
2. Which rules was she not willing to follow?
3. I would be incoherent too after witnessing (sorry, ALLEGEDLY witnessing) a traumatic event. Who knows, she might have even become incoherent after an onslaught by you! I have been on the receiving end and I am a TOUGH cookie who can handle my own. But I have to say – having dealt with SOME people in your organisation has pushed me to an edge and I am 100% sure that I am not the only one who can make such a statement or feel that way.
4. These things she complained about which you claim to be ludicrous and untrue – can we hear about them? You know, just to get to the truth of the matter.
5. “She interferred with staff and the running of the society” – how? And what if she demanded to be heard even if staff were busy with clients because there was an emergency and there was no one available to help? Do you have clients who can attest to this? Again, we don’t have the full version of what happened. You make a hell of a lot of allegations with no substantial back up forthcoming. We would love to hear your side. Surely that is not too much to ask?
If you feel that she is being inflammatory towards the society, have you started legal proceedings against Tessa and the other volunteer?
Point 1. She said so in my presence – Her actual words were that she would take the SPCA down and she has never lost a fight and she won’t lose this one. So ja, direct from the horse’s mouth as it were.
Point 2. Rules pertaining to homing animals, not willing to sign code of conduct for volunteers (as a matter of interest all committee members have to sign codes of conduct) – another quote from Tessa – “rules are made to be broken” Interferring with the staff etc etc
Point 3. She did not become incoherent at the time – we are talking nearly a year later after at least 2 meetings and letters to NSPCA. It was decided to have ANOTHER meeting with her, society liaison officer, me, accused staff, SPCA committee members. No one interrupted her – they let her have her say. No one was agro to her and the meeting was very calm but she got herself so worked up, as she did at the meeting I had with the volunteers in an effort to explain how SPCA’s work and how individual SPCA’s fit into the bigger picture. There were no raised voices or agro at all – except from her. She uses very emotionally charged words like Murder, likes to kill animals, etc
Point 4: There is a whole lever arch file full of backwards and forwards and hate mail sent to the society – I am not in a position to rehash everything – ask Tessa to give you the details.
Point 5: What are you? A lawyer – In the first place it is extremely rude to rush into reception, interrupt someone who is talking to someone else because you want information and no it wasn’t emergency situations – it was stuff like where is the dog that was in Kennel 2 and what is the history of the dog in Kennel 6 and that king of stuff or Why can’t Mr X adopt this dog – so not emergency stuff at all. Just plain rude behavour.
The matter is with lawyers.
Tessa has laid a charge, the SAPS will investigate, send the docket to the PP who will decide whether to prosecute or not.
I am not making allegations Nikki – I personally have asked Tessa, ON NUMEROUS OCCASSIONS to PLEASE give me witness statements, names, contact details etc so that the matter can be taken forward but she has consistently refused or neglected to do this. Any reasonable person can work out that one cannot proceed with a matter on hearsay. Her credibility because of her actions over a long period of time is also at issue. All I know is that the other person is a Mrs Button (which I have only recently found out) – I have no idea who Mrs Button is, what she saw or didn’t see because I have no statements. Last week Tessa told me she would get her attorneys to draw up the necessary paperwork and let me have copies – I am still waiting.
There is absolutely no reason why these people can’t start their own animal welfare organisation and they they can run a “no kill” shelter. I want to see a vet in EL who would be willing to work for them. I even helped get them information on how to register as an NPO but they don’t want to be bothered with doing paperwork. Unfortunately it comes with the territory – you are working with public money and you need to account to the publi. In order to get funding you need to keep stats but why am I even telling you this?
Thank you Annette (and does it matter what I am?).
Does anybody have any contact with Tessa? I would like to hear what she has to say about the above.
Only once we have all the facts and have heard from everyone should we form an opinion. I know the SPCA isn’t always the good guys. I will be the first to shoot my mouth off and tell them exactly what I think (they know me and they know I am not necessarily a fan). BUT, I DO want to know that when I judge someone, I have heard from everyone and I have my story straight and that I am informed.
What gives you the right to judge anyone? Oh im sorry you must be one of those perfect people, who does everything right so you are entitled to judge the rest of us mere mortals. You must be a lawyer.
Let the police do there job, and let the evidence be the judge.
HI Annette, Remeber the meeting you had with the ladies in King about the ELSPCA?????? Remember all your”grave concerns” you raised regarding the management and practices of the ELSPCA? All the very serious cnd nuerous complaints you had received regarding the ELSPCA? Don’t forget the bit about the Buffalo City Municipality having concerns and evidence relating to admissions of pound animals ………. remember THAT one? Well, I have been following your attack on these ladies with some interest, and I find it fascinating you are now batting for the other side. Which hat are you wearing now? NSPCA, or KWTSPCA? These ladies are prepared to sign affidavits attesting to your “concerns” regarding Lional Taylor. Funny you’re his biggest fan and supporter now…… what happened? If this is how you behave as a member of the NSPCA, where the public should be able to go to you confidently to deal with concerns regarding animal welfare …. and you come out in defence of the institution, then maybe it’s time you vacated that spot and gave it to someone more deserving who could bring change! Wait for the Pandora’s Box to open a little wider…… lots more to come out, this is only round one …… watch this space ….. “Help for the Helpless”
Oh pulease man – pull that carrot out of your nether region. I am not the one on “trial” here. Get something worth while to insult me with.
HI Nikki, Glad you want to hear the other side. Here is Tessa’s number : 043 748 2868 and 083 659 8719. I have in my possession an e-mail meant for Mr. Taylors support group, which “just happened to land in my lap” so to speak. He has admitted he was there, say it was not on the date she said, but I too could have got the date wrong if I had witnessed something like that, and he admits himself in this e-mail it’s “extremely difficult to give an exact date” he leashed the birthing dog, “slowly walking it to the hospital” (his version ) and this is a distance of 50m …. I paced it myself the other day … Please bear in mind, she is in the process of having her puppies, and he is forcing her to leave two newborn pups behind in the kennel. All of this because he “was concerned about her” Heaven help the animals he is not concerned about!!!!
Ok, I’m coming in at the tail end and picking up stompies. It seems like you are quite ready to judge Mr Taylor without having the facts, but you don’t use the same criteria with Tessa. Nikki, with respect, isn’t that taking sides? I may be ignorant of blogging protocols, but I would assume that as moderator you should play “devil’s advocate” and not take sides. Or have I got it wrong and ended up on a site that has nothing to do with responsible reporting or fair play on an issue that is so emotive and close to all our hearts? At this stage I don’t know who to believe … but I am willing to give both parties the benefit of the doubt until the case has gone to court and they are judged by the legal system. Having read some of the comments though, it seems like everybody has already made up their minds about Mr Taylor’s guilt. Mmmmm. Maybe I am on the wrong site after all.
Ummmmmm if you read carefully, but only reaaaalllllyyyy carefully, you will see that I am trying to get both sides of the story. In fact, I do believe I said something like… um…. “I DO want to know that when I judge someone, I have heard from everyone and I have my story straight and that I am informed”. Maybe I am reading it wrong, but I can’t find anything in that which says “Mr. Taylor is guilty as sin and therefore he must hang!!!”. You will also see, if you look carefully, but only REAAAALLLLLLLYYYYY carefully that I am waiting to see what Tessa has to say to the NSPCA’s response.
Also, if you look carefully, but only REALLLLLYYYY carefully, you will see I never said I was a moderator or even claimed to be. I am a civil society activist and concerned citizen who is asking questions.
Yup. With that kind of response, I am definitely on the wrong site. OK, I’m outa here. I’m sure there must be some really interesting and helpful sites that aren’t QUITE so juvenile. Anybody have any suggestions?
Be Fair: Listen sweets – what kind of response were you expecting when you jump to conclusions without checking first? You wanted me to roll over and have you scratch my belly? Life doesn’t work that way. I am so terribly sorry I have offended your fragile sensibilities.
Sorry guys, but I know these people are doing work that no one else wants to or is capable of doing. Working for an SPCA is really a shit life, You get downed by the public, you have no life but work, the pay sux and no one appreciates what you do. So how about you walk a mile in there shoes before commenting.
Actually, for your information, the majority of the activists on this sight actually do walk a mile in the same shoes, and give up a lot of their time in animal rescue and welfare working with pro life agencies so are well aware of this walk and this is why we get so upset everytime something like this happens. Why do these things only seem to happen at the SPCA? One hardly hears of this at pro life organisations. Dont get us wrong we have great respect for all the Angels at the spca that slog it out day in and out due to their passion and love for animals, working under the conditions they do and having to see the cruelty they do and obey orders or get fired cannot be easy. But there is no excuse for this!! So just to put you in the picture, we all walk this mile and are able to comment. Problem is when we rescue an animal and the SPCA find out about it they want the animal handed over and threaten us. When we try take pics of the dogs and help home them they threaten us. Nice bunch actually!!!
HI, you DO know why they want the animal handed over don’t you? They get paid pound fees by the municipality! So another body to add to the pile for the freezer/incinerator! “Help for the Helpless”
I have to admit, after reading everything, I am definitely rooting for Tessa. I DO believe that wrong was done and I DO believe that the NSPCA is being unfair and negligent in dealing with this issue. Annette – congratulations: you’re a true politician (very good at pointing fingers and deflecting from the real issue. I do believe the DA are masters at this).
As for stats – we can apply for that information under the access to information act. If anyone has any problems with getting cooperation in this matter, let me know. I will put you in touch with my contact at Open Democracy (the very people who formulated this act).
I really want to see the letter in which the SPCA calls for animals to be handed over and more over, I want to see the article in which it mentions them killing off feral colonies. I recently had a similar situation in Cape Town – fortunately the ending was not a deadly one (long story) but there are still some concerns….
And just FYI, I would also like to point out that I have in my possession an email (unfortunately it is confidential) in which a member of the NSPCA board clearly states they are not in favour of trying to find homes for animals (in so many words) and that animal welfare organisations interfere (in so many words).
RJF – I KNOW that having to decide who lives and dies on a daily basis, being exposed to horrors on a daily basis is a CRAP thing to have to experience, but that is NO EXCUSE for abhorrant behaviour. So don’t come with the “walk in their shoes” bull. Put yourself in other’s shoes: we are also exposed to these same horrors, we also fight hard to try and make a difference (and we don’t get paid and don’t do this full time because most of us have full time jobs), and there are often times where we have to clean up after certain SPCAs because they couldn’t give a damn (only to be lambasted for the good we are trying to do). But if you really want to go there, BRING IT.
As usual Nikki, just have to say could not have put it better myself. Why the general public thinks that animal rights activists have no “hands on” or on the ground experience working with abused and horrific cases of torture, not to mention rescuing animals from township violence and slaughter houses, is completely beyond me. Do they think we are couch referees? No the reason we do what we do is because we see this horror first hand and are prepared to do something about it and expose those who neglect their duties towards these sentient beings. By the way RJF, i had a very successfull finance company, which collapsed as a result of my animal rights and rescue work, i lost everything, and that goes for many good people whos sole reason for living is doing what we do, yet because we dont work for the SPCA that makes us in your opinion not qualified?????????? So maybe you should be the one to start walking your talk. AS Nikki Said…………..
Let me also point out that activists don’t just rescue animals and do what the SPCA does. They also push VERY hard to try and change legislation – something which the NSPCA has always had an excuse not to do. Again, I have emails which basically says it’s too difficult.
I will agree – it is difficult, but not impossible. I KNOW because I have been part of the process and we have enjoyed success to a certain degree. We have fought against unconstitutional animal by-laws in Cape Town which would have passed on the second draft. The law is now in its 8th or 9th draft and is increasingly heading towards pro-life solutions. The ruling party in the WC has also promised to draw up a first ever animal policy which could pave the way for other provinces to adopt and eventually this policy can be used as motivation to relook the APA. All the SPCA did in this WHOLE process was attend a meeting by invitation from us. The work was done by myself and my fellow activists. The SPCA is doing curing, while most activists are doing both prevention AND curing. I find the SPCA is so WILLINGLY confined by it’s own act and the APA that it is not willing (or wanting?) to be progressive and leaves that to citizens. The part which often gets to me is that the SPCA is VERY quick to ride on the coat tails of the work done by those they believe are interfering and then they claim the credit to boot. I have seen this happen many times.
Hi Nikki, I think we may need your contacts to access the information we need. Please will you let me have the contact details for this? Cheers, Marlene
@ Marlene, yes i am well aware of the fact that they are the pound and are allegedly paid for every single carcass, however they claim that has been done away with and we cant seem to get any evidence to back this pay per carcass but we are all aware of the fact. Also, the SPCA sells blood to vets and OBP university (allegedly). An interesting little business on the side if all this is fact. Not to mention the fee a while back that was charged for incinerating dead pets collected at vets, yet the bodies just chucked out on a rubbish heap. Wow the list goes on and on!!! However, tracks are seemingly covered at the moment but somebody will slip up and we will be there to arrange the nuclear fall out. That my dear i can promise you. Thanks for your input and comments.
Hi Lara, I have heard the most terrible things about one animal being drained of all its blood for the vet. Can you imagine the death? The animal just suffocates…….
Unfortunately yes i have heard these stories and from more than one source and for many years now, amongst others…………….. most of them now ex staff members, and the reason they become ex staff members is because they dare to complain or go against protocol. However, I do know of some really brilliant SPCA branches and most SPCAs really do great work and the staff are like angels. But when these incidents to occur and questions are asked it seems due to very biased media and cronies in high places it always gets hushed or swept under the carpet. However what enfurriates me the most is that when it comes down to the crunch people get scared and they back off and back out as they fear legal action and some of our members have even received death threats. So until people are willing to come forward our hands are tied as we at WAR never pubish or make public anything without evidence. We are currently investigating many incidents, some for years now and this is just the tip of the iceberg and believe me we dont target the SPCA. There are many welfare organisations that are just rotten to the core and those we report to the NSPCA and i do have to admit they have reacted immediately in shutting these people down. So its not all doom and gloom but you always get a rotten apple in every bunch.
You know guys, I am really disappointed with you. I have walked those shoes and I have been on the receiving end of the criticism. I did just that for 14 years and I saw things that you could not imagine. It made me a hard person, I had to quite or go mad. To see people criticize the SPCA hurts me and others like me. We lived our lives for what we believed in.
Roland, i presume that is you, if not sorry mistaken identity. As i just stated in my last post, we dont target the SPCA, but when things like this happen its high time they apollogies and admit their is a problem and not always go into a state of denial and attack and blacken the people that bring this to the surface. Its also high time they start treating other pro life organisations and activists as friends instead of some kind of a threat. Until such time i can never see any form of unification.
I agree – they should treat us as friends – we are more than willing to help them and assist in re-homing some of the beautiful animals that land up at the SPCA – but they don’t feel the same wonder why???? We have the network.
No Lara, you don’t target the SPCA, but unfortunately I cannot say the same about Nikki. It seems to me that she has a Hate for the organisation as a whole. There are a lot of good people there and I know a lot of them. The NSPCA are always trying to better the societies and I know they are doing their best to sort out problems.
I don’t hate the SPCA. Shows you how very wrong you got things RJF. I hate wrong doing. Period. Whether it be the SPCA or any other organisation. Don’t profess to know me. You don’t.
Cry me a river RJF. What is good for the goose, is good for the gander. Stop the pity party, we ain’t voting. You are not the only people having it hard. And who are you to be disappointed is us? Our mother?
We have also been on the receiving end of criticism, Many times. We see things you can’t imagine either.
So don’t start. Again, if you want to go there, BRING IT.
Nikki it is easy to attack. But why don’t you rather use that pent up energy and get a sterilization campaign going. Maybe, just maybe you can make a difference. And No, I am not your mother (never claimed to be), but it is easier to criticize than to help. As far as seeing things, well I can only say that being in the trenches and doing the work is a eye opener. We have serious animal problems world wide, South Africa is not unique. I have been all over and seen first hand what people do to animals. We cannot keep on attacking people that make a difference and turn a blind eye to the real problem. It seems to me that instead of broad casting on real cruelty you only attack the SPCA. When last have you actually gone out and tried to find the pittbul fighters, gotten the information so that the only people that will lay charges can act upon it. Instead you listen to every one that has a gripe about the SPCA, because they will not follow rules. Without rules the organisation will crumble and unfortunately for the individuals who want to volunteer the organisation cannot have anarchy.
Says who I don’t have a sterilization campaign going? I am very, very involved in giving free sterilizations to domestic animals in poorerr communities. And free vaccinations and free dipping and free deworming.
Hey of course it is easy to attack – you illustrated that well.
I don’t go out to find pittbull fighters. I work to change legislation which will help curb pitbull fighting. I try and prevent animal abuse and cruelty in the first place. You know, the kind of thing which will make the task of the SPCA much easier. Please – DO point fingers at me.
Ps Nikki, I am not with the SPCA, I work for myself. I just help out with a few organisations and have seen first hand what is going on in our world,
My final comment on this issue is this…………. I do in earnest feel very very sorry for the honest and kind hearted people that work at the SPCA and have to bear the brunt of the anger from the general public when these types of incidents happen. I know some good people who work at the SPCA whos hands are pretty much tied and i agree they work for the love of animals. I have never known any organisations or groups in animal rights or welfare that actually see eye to eye or get on for very long, their is to much politics and emotions always run high. However, that said, we all try and work together for one goal and that is the goal to assist and speak for those that cant speak for themselves, yet the NSPCA appointed themselves as the Gods of animal welfare and nobody else is allowed to assist or even be an inspector unless trained by them. One would think instead of their noses being out of joint and picking on such easy targets by throwing their weight around, they should rather be only to happy for the help. Sadly though, its not to be and while this little ego inflating power struggle continues, its the animals that continue to suffer. I find it so strange that an organisation that is always pleading poverty refuses outside help, demands the handing over of all strays found in their area, and has even threatened legal action against activists who find dogs in the streets and phone the spca giving details of said dog and leaving their phone number behind for the owners incase of contact. We are banned from taking pictures of their animals in order to assist them home them. So if animal welfare is the major concern here what seems to be the problem??????? Its would appear as long as our questions are sidelined, nothing is due to change any time soon.
Thank you Lara, yes there are still good people at the SPCA. They are a majority and it is not right to condemn all because of a few problem cases. I still think all the organisations do good work and all need to be given a chance to continue with that work.
Granted, but the rotten apples need to be exposed and thrown out and i am referring to all organisations with this statement not any one in particular. I do also understand that after a few years one can become emotionally detached as the amount of cruelty we see day in and day out is staggering and as soon as you think you have seen it all something else comes along to remind you that you have not. However, that said, when that starts to happen and one becomes complacent its time to call it a day and i reckon in most of these cases its 80% of the cause. That along with certain individuals who hide behind animal welfare to enrich themselves. Also, i do have to make a note here that i have known Nikki Botha for many years now and the work and tireless dedication she puts into the rights and welfare of all animals is endless. Sounds like the two of you would do better to work together as i think you would with your explosive dedication make a great team. Just a thought……………………………….
HI All, As I see it, the only way to get things to change, is to bypass the NSPCA if there are problems. How to do that? Well, one route is to study the Animal Anti-Cruelty Act, and to go the Legal Route. A criminal charge cannot be swept under the carpet, no matter how powerful they think they are. The law will run its course in this case, so let’s wait and see. This really IS just the tip on the iceberg, but you need to start somewhere, and work your way up …… or down (whichever applies) until everything is exposed. A Special General Meeting is also another route (we’re doing both), and there again your agenda can list all the problems, and they all have to be dealt with. The amount of support for change at this branch is enormous, which is very encouraging. Will keep you all posted. The more people get involved at branch level, and of course become members so they have a vote, the better for all concerned… especially the animals.
The only problem with laying charges is that once the courts are inundated with “petty ” cruelty they will no longer take it serious. That is why it is very important to get the charges right and make it easier to prosecute wrong doers.
Ps. Start with getting the name of the act right. There is no such thing as the animal anti-cruelty act. It is the Animals protection act.
RJF – this is the mentality of the people we are dealing with. Been around for 5 minuites and now they know it all. Live in la la land, don’t have a clue about the Legislation or how to enforce it but now they are experts at running an SPCA. Wonder if they know about the PAPA and the animal matters amendment act plus all the codes and reg 468, pound ordinances (all of them), nature con act etc that go with the territory. Then we won’t talk about the AWA legislation and the SAVC rules and regs. But they are the experts and they can do it better – just watch ! Leave then to pee on the Magistrate’s battery and see how far it gets them – all the foot stomping and tantrums in the world won’t help.
Annette, my point is that the magistrates do not want their time wasted. If you are going to lay charges do it properly. Study the act, get the facts together and be meticulous with the docket.
so if this is what the SPCA people are doing, shouldnt they be removed. This f*cking country needs to start penalising and punishing people who are animal abusers, harmers and definately the people in the SPCA who dont actually give a shit!!!!! This is not the first time people have complained about the spca !!! you people disgust me. Mr Taylor should be so lucky as to have no body find out who he is! or where he is from!!!! im sure there are plenty people who would like to give them a piece of mind or worse!!!