SPCA warning after fatal Plain dog attack

The Cape of Good Hope SPCA has warned that unregulated breeding and irresponsible ownership of powerful dog breeds are placing communities at risk, following the fatal mauling of Faziela Swartz (44) by her own dogs in Mitchells Plain.

​According to South African Police Service, officers were called to a premises in Maralize Street, Morgenster, at about 1.53pm on 28 January following a complaint of a dog attack.

​Police were informed that the woman had been attacked by her own two dogs inside the backyard of the property. Neighbours attempted to intervene, but were unable to get the dogs away from her.

​The victim was taken to the hospital by private vehicle and later died on February 3 as a result of her injuries. SAPS confirmed that an enquiry docket has been opened to investigate the circumstances surrounding her death.

​The Cape of Good Hope SPCA said it was called to the scene by City of Cape Town Law Enforcement officials. Two pit bull-type dogs were surrendered by the family and humanely euthanised on the day of the incident.

​SPCA communications manager Belinda Abraham said the tragedy reflected deep-seated failures in dog ownership and breeding practices rather than a single breed problem.

​“Aggression is not a breed or dog-type issue; it’s a people issue,” Abraham said. “Our biggest concern is the amount of unregulated breeding of power breeds in many areas around Cape Town together with irresponsible ownership. This is a ticking timebomb.”