Yoshini Perumal|Published
Animal rights activists and community leaders are urging residents living in Hillary, Bellair, and Seaview to be vigilant after it was reported that criminals were allegedly poisoning pet dogs to silence them during home invasions.
Karen Janisch, an animal rights activist and dog rescuer, said three dogs were poisoned in Seaview on Saturday night.
She said the dogs were in a critical condition and were fighting for their lives at the Westville Veterinary Hospital.
“We have been calling for residents in these areas, where there have been numerous cases of dogs being poisoned during house robberies, to keep their dogs inside at night.
“We are concerned about the number of cases that are being reported,” she added.
Samantha Windvogel, councillor for the area, said dogs were often poisoned in cable theft and house robbery incidents.
She said while the police were yet to confirm a direct link between the crimes and the dog poisoning cases, she can confirm that the Seaview, Hillary, and Bellair areas had experienced a significant increase in cable theft and housebreaking incidents over the past month.
“There were over 20 cable theft cases reported, particularly in Seaview. It is a known modus operandi for syndicates to neutralise dogs to gain easier access to properties, and we cannot rule this out.
“I have escalated the matter to the Bellair SAPS and requested increased visibility and patrols in the affected areas.
“SPCA Durban will assist with the documentation of any suspected poisoning cases.”
Windvogel urged pet owners to report formal cases with police and obtain a case number if their dogs had been poisoned.
“Opening a case is crucial for investigation and for resource allocation.
“I appeal to residents to remain vigilant, to ensure their perimeter security and alarm systems are functional, to keep dogs secured inside properties at night where possible, and to immediately report any suspicious behaviour or individuals to police.”
Windvogel encouraged residents with CCTV footage of incidents related to dogs being poisoned, or any other information, to contact her office on 074 323 3900.