WARNING: Graphic image below may upset sensitive readers.
When a Manenberg woman left her alleged abusive partner, he retaliated by attempting to set her home on fire and stabbed their family dog in the neck.
Cape of Good Hope SPCA spokesperson Belinda Abraham said the organisation responded to the call for help on Friday.
“Recently, a woman left her abusive partner only to have him return this past Thursday and set her home on fire in retaliation. When she returned from the police station after reporting the incident, this violent man was waiting for her.
"He demanded that she hand over the family dog and when she refused to do so, he restrained the dog and stabbed him viciously.”
Abraham said SPCA inspector Jeffrey Mfini found the dog, named Sametime, lying on a blanket and bleeding profusely from a deep wound to his neck.
Cape of Good Hope SPCA spokesperson Belinda Abraham
“Time was of the essence and so Inspector Mfini rushed Sametime to the closest private veterinary practice for treatment.
“Sametime is still in a critical condition but he will soon be brought to the SPCA to complete his recovery here, under the watchful eye of our own veterinary team.”
After assisting the dog, Mfini then lodged a complaint against the man in terms of the Animals Protection Act.
“The 44-year-old suspect was arrested with the assistance of Captain Moloi and Sergeant Mzola of the Manenberg SAPS.
“He is currently in custody and will soon be transferred to Athlone SAPS as the incident occurred within that jurisdiction.
“We are grateful to the members of SAPS who assisted us with this arrest and thank them for recognising the suffering of an animal.”
Abraham said incidents like this were not uncommon.
“Often an intimate partner will use animal maltreatment as a coercive tactic when their partner has a valued bond with an animal, or an emotional attachment that can be exploited.
“It is for this reason that intimate partner and gender-based violence
present very real threats to any animals within the household, too.
“Animal cruelty is just as much a criminal offence as domestic violence and if you should find yourself in a position where you fear for your safety and that of your companion animals, please let us know.
“We will assist you with the removal of your pet for safekeeping, the compilation of a criminal docket, formulation of charges and the representation of any pet injured by your intimate partner in a court of law,” she said.