NC man sentenced to jail for killing his dog with an axe

WARNING: This story contains an image that some readers might find disturbing.

THE NATIONAL Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) has welcomed the conviction and sentencing of a Northern Cape man who “mercilessly” beat his dog to death with an axe.

The killing was done in the presence of a child who was forced to hold the dog by a rope.

The Kathu Magistrate’s Court sentenced Norman Mothudi to four months imprisonment or a fine of R4,000. He was also declared unfit to possess a firearm.

“This conviction is a reminder that the NSPCA stands resolute in the face of animal cruelty and that every animal is deserving of our utmost care and protection,” the animal welfare organisation said.

“The NSPCA welcomes the conviction, hoping that it will serve as a powerful deterrent to those who would dare to commit such acts of cruelty.

“We remain steadfast in our mission to advocate for the humane and compassionate treatment of all animals and we implore the public to seek assistance from their nearest SPCA if they find themselves unable to care for their animals, instead of resorting to inhumane actions.”

On August 1 last year, the NSPCA received a complaint with a video attached depicting a man repeatedly striking a dog with an axe.

The killing was done in the presence of a child.

NSPCA inspector Mpho Mokoena travelled to Olifantshoek in the Northern Cape, where he investigated the scene and exhumed the carcass for a post-mortem examination.

“The perpetrator was identified, leading to an inspection of his property under warrant. Shockingly, it was revealed that Mr Mothudi had callously killed the animal due to the dog’s purported aggressiveness,” the NSPCA stated.

It noted that a boerboel-type dog was also discovered on the property, “kept in deplorable conditions”, prompting the NSPCA inspector to intervene and seize the animal.