NSPCA calls for introduction of permits to own pit bull as pets
The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA) has called for the castration, sterilisation of pit bulls.
This comes amid growing calls from certain sections of society to have the breed banned as pets.
In the latest incident, a pit bull attacked and mauled an 8-year-old boy to death in Bloemfontein on Saturday.
NSPCA spokesperson Keshvi Nair says pit bull owners should have permits to own the breed.
"There should be stronger regulations with regards to the keeping and breeding of these animals. In other words, we need to ensure that these animals are castrated and sterilised. The people who have these breeds must have permits to own the animals.
"We do not support the ban the breed of any animals. There are concerns attached to that and needs to be taken into very careful consideration before something like that can be implemented."
Nair says there has been an increase in the number of pit bulls dropped off at their various offices around the country.
"Since the attack a lot of SPCAs have been taken in the dogs. We foresaw that a lot of animals would be surrendered, and we would never turn away any animal for any reason. We will not ask questions to those who want to give up their dogs."
Meanwhile, the Sizwe Kupelo Foundation has started a petition calling on Agriculture Minister Thoko Didiza to ban pit bulls.
https://www.change.org/p/presidencyza-dalrrdgov-za-healthza-sapoliceservice-it-s-time-to-ban-pit-bulls-as-domestic-pets-in-sa-banpitbulls
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