SAVA calls for better regulation to reduce human-pit bull conflict

A better understanding of animal behaviour and the implementation of effective regulation through the engagement of various stakeholders are among the key factors that are likely to reduce the prevalence of human-pit bull conflict.

Also read: SPCA offers R5000 for information about people who burnt pit bulls to death

This is according to the South African Veterinary Association (SAVA) in the wake of a spate of recent incidents where people have been either injured or killed by pitbulls across the country. 

Among other recent incidents, the Cape of Good Hope SPCA is offering a R5,000 reward for information that will help investigators arrest and prosecute the people involved in the recent killing of three pit bulls that allegedly mauled and severely injured a young girl in Gatesville.

In the wake of this incident, SAVA Managing Director Gert Steyn said that the recent incidents in which people have been attacked and fatally injured by pit bulls (and dogs assumed to be pit bulls) have led to emotional responses and, in some instances, drastic action. He added that there were measures that could be implemented to ensure a harmonious relationship between people and dogs.

“The short succession of attacks have led to the perception of an unusual high incidence of pit bull-related conflict,” Steyn said. “Subsequent action included voluntary surrender of dogs to Animal Welfare Organisations (AWOs), threats by various stakeholders to confiscate and dispose of animals, offers to owners for the removal of dogs with no clear indication of their eventual fate, and incidences of brutal killings of dogs.”

Steyn said that this response had traumatised owners and overwhelmed the capacity of AWOs to take in, care for, facilitate adoption or euthanise affected animals.

According to Steyn’s statement, this has escalated the perception of the breed as an excessively dangerous animal. 

“From a short-term perspective, the objective should be to reduce conflict and contain stress, damage, and brutality to owners and animals.”

“In the long term, a multi-pronged approach is required to create an environment that promotes peaceful cohabitation of humans and dogs. 

Steyn said that a revision of the regulatory environment at the national, provincial, and municipal levels, as well as its effective implementation and regulation, were essential to addressing current concerns.

“This requires that a strategy is developed for addressing conflict, the implementation thereof and its resourcing.”

“To this end, it is proposed that SAVA facilitates and supports Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development in  the establishment of a national steering committee that to develop the short- and long-term strategy to the point of handover to the various stakeholders for implementation.”  

Also read:

Warning: Graphic video and images of pit bulls brutally attacked and set alight in Cape Town

Picture: Cape{town}Etc Library

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