Behind the façade of compassion, SPCA Inspectors uncovered extreme neglect and suffering.
Image: SPCA
Not all who claim to rescue animals truly help them. Since August last year, the SPCA has intervened in four shocking cases in which organisations registered as NPOs and soliciting public donations were found neglecting and harming the very animals they claimed to protect.
Mahanaimfeet Sanctuary, run by Mr Ockert Kruger, promotes itself as "Saving Lives Paw By Paw" and "A Peaceful Home for Retired Heroes."
However, behind this compassionate image, SPCA Inspectors uncovered extreme neglect and suffering.
Following an urgent warrant from the Atlantis Magistrate's Court, the most critical cases were removed immediately last Thursday.
A follow-up inspection on 11 March 2025 led to the removal of 75 more dogs from the property.
Behind the façade of compassion, SPCA Inspectors uncovered extreme neglect and suffering.
Image: SPCA
This is not Kruger’s first encounter with the law or the SPCA. His pattern of renting properties, accumulating debt, and evading eviction continues—all while using animals as a source of income.
"The SPCA is taking legal action to prevent Kruger from acquiring more animals while court proceedings are underway. This must be the last time animals suffer at his hands", says Chief Inspector Jaco Pieterse.
Shockingly, in 2018, the Swellendam SPCA seized horses from him under similar conditions. That court case remains unresolved, yet he has continued operating.
Behind the façade of compassion, SPCA Inspectors uncovered extreme neglect and suffering.
Image: SPCA
When Inspectors arrived, Kruger and his family attempted to hide dogs, leading to his arrest for obstruction and animal cruelty.
Cases like this highlight how the unregulated nature of animal welfare leaves both animals and the public vulnerable.
There is no governing body overseeing rescue organisations, allowing hoarders and opportunists to exploit public goodwill while animals suffer.
Behind the façade of compassion, SPCA Inspectors uncovered extreme neglect and suffering.
Image: SPCA
Many people donate in good faith, believing their money helps animals.
Others surrender pets to these facilities, thinking they are giving them a second chance. In reality, they may be condemning them to a life of neglect.
Behind the façade of compassion, SPCA Inspectors uncovered extreme neglect and suffering.
Image: SPCA
Visit before you donate – A registered NPO does not guarantee ethical practices. Always inspect facilities in person before offering support.
Call for regulation – Local governments must establish policies governing rescue organisations and enforcing accountability.
Uncontrolled intake is a red flag – Any facility that takes in unlimited animals without a euthanasia policy is likely hoarding, not rescuing.
Irresponsible pet surrenders contribute to the problem – Private rescue groups and individuals who drop off animals at questionable facilities to avoid euthanasia are enabling suffering.
Behind the façade of compassion, SPCA Inspectors uncovered extreme neglect and suffering.
Image: SPCA
October 2024: 63 cats and 8 rabbits seized from Kitty Rescue Care & Rehome in Ruyterwacht due to severe welfare concerns.
August 2024: 31 dogs in urgent need of care removed from HAWK Riverlands under court order; the facility was ordered to reduce overcrowding.
February 2025: The SPCA raided the home of a rescuer in Wynberg, removing 16 cats and 5 rabbits suffering from poor conditions, sickness, and neglect.
March 2025: The largest intervention yet—163 dogs and 29 tortoises rescued from Mahanaimfeet Sanctuary outside Atlantis.
Behind the façade of compassion, SPCA Inspectors uncovered extreme neglect and suffering.
Image: SPCA
Without proper oversight, fake rescues will continue exploiting animals and donors alike.
Public awareness, strict regulations, and responsible pet ownership are essential in breaking this cycle of suffering.
kim.kay@iol.co.za
IOL
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