Muizenberg man gets maximum sentence for Boerboel neglect

A MUIZENBERG man has received the maximum sentence provided for under South Africa’s animal welfare legislation after being convicted in connection with the neglect of two Boerboels.

The Act provides for a fine of up to R40 000 and/or imprisonment for up to 12 months and, last week, the Muizenberg Magistrate’s Court sentenced 52-year-old Reidwaan Hoosain from Seawinds after his conviction under the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962. 

While the sentence was wholly suspended, a conviction under the Act carries a criminal record.

The matter dates back to 3 October 2022, when an SPCA inspector responded to a complaint about two adult Boerboels at a Seawinds property.

According to evidence presented in court, the dogs were severely underweight, with visible skeletal frames, and were infested with fleas and ticks. One of the dogs had developed pressure sores. No water was available at the time of inspection, and no veterinary treatment had been sought.

The dogs were subsequently removed and criminal charges were laid.

Hoosain initially pleaded not guilty. After evidence was presented, he was convicted on charges relating to ill-treatment, failure to provide adequate food and water, and failure to obtain veterinary care.

The ruling comes amid heightened public concern about animal welfare after a fatal dog attack in Beacon Valley, Mitchells Plain, earlier this month. Authorities have not released identifying details, and the circumstances surrounding that incident remain under investigation.