THE National SPCA and Pitbull Federation South Africa (PBFAS) have addressed the growing concerns about dog attacks, emphasising that responsible ownership was crucial for preventing incidents with power-breed dogs.

They said the number of attacks was deeply concerning but that the dogs were not the issue, but rather the owners.

“The NSPCA remains deeply concerned about the number of dog attacks, particularly involving power-breeds such as Pitbull Terriers. These incidents not only put people at risk but also result in immense suffering for both the animals involved in the attacks and those that become victims.

“It is the responsibility of every dog owner to ensure that their animals are kept safely within the confines of their property and are not a danger to people or other animals. Failure to do so could result in legal consequences for the owner,” said Jacques Peacock, communication manager at the NSPCA.

He said that neighbours, who felt threatened by aggressive dogs, should report the matter to their local law enforcement, municipality, or metro police, as animal control fell under their jurisdiction.

“Additionally, should an attack occur, victims can open a case with the South African Police Service (SAPS) in terms of the Animal Matters Amendment Act No. 42 of 1993.

“The NSPCA strongly advocates for responsible pet ownership, which includes proper training, socialisation, and sterilisation to reduce the likelihood of aggression,” he said.

While it is legal to own a Pitbull in South Africa, these dogs require knowledgeable and responsible handling, he added.

“Unfortunately, many Pitbulls are acquired for the wrong reasons - such as for security, intimidation, or illegal dog fighting - resulting in increased aggression and higher risks to communities. The NSPCA supports stronger regulations for keeping power-breeds, including mandatory permits and sterilisation,” he said.

Peacock said that when the SPCA got involved in cases where dogs attack, they were often not removed from their owners custody.

“The SPCA generally does not take the animal away, but is simply used for safe keeping of the animal, if taken away by law enforcement or by order of a court.

“The animal is then kept until determination on the animal or case is made by the court, alternatively humanely euthanised if the court orders so. In many cases, especially where a dog has a history of human aggression or poses a serious risk, humane euthanasia is the most responsible course of action,” said Peacock.

Lehandra Rheeder, the PBFSA spokesperson said the public needed to remember that Pitbulls were an aggressive breed.

“If you take a Pitbull as a house pet, it cannot be with other dogs. They are not tolerant of other animals because they are animal aggressors. The owners need to ensure their dogs do not leave their yards. They must be in complete control of their dogs at all times,” she said.

She also highlighted that nine out of ten times, it was the owners' irresponsibility that led to Pitbull attacks.

“You are taking a dog that you know is known for being aggressive, so you need to be able to take care of the dog adequately. Many people don’t know how to keep dogs and later realise they lack the knowledge to take proper care of them. Pitbulls need a lot of attention. they are loving if treated correctly. You cannot neglect your Pitbull. they are highly energetic dogs and if they are left to their own devices, they will cause mayhem.

“It is sad for us because we know Pitbulls are not bad dogs but it is rather the owner that does not know how to take care of their dogs.”

She said that training was imperative for this breed of dog.

“Pitbulls need to be trained throughout their lives, in order to keep everyone safe. You simply cannot change an aggressive DNA but you can nurture and love your dog, especially when it comes to keeping them in your yard. Save your neighbours and your dogs by being a responsible owner.

"The government, in collaboration with PBFSA, is conducting a DNA research project to determine the correlation between genetics and aggression. We are committed to responsible ownership, education, and scientific research to ensure the truth prevails. Responsible ownership remains the most important factor. Pitbull and Pitbull-type dog owners must be responsible in raising, socializing and continued training for their dogs,” said Rheeder

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SPCA and Pitbull Federation emphasise owner responsibility in dog attacks

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