The organisation responded to a call regarding calf bodies being dumped in the area on Saturday (9/5). Upon arriving at the premises where the calves were being kept, GRSPCA Inspector Henrico Pypers discovered two additional deceased calves.

George Herald reports unofficial information indicates they were dumped on the pavement by a small-scale farmer, possibly with the intention that the meat be used by residents.

It was further alleged the calves had died because of neglect and poor care. The farmer’s identity remains unknown.

“The calves have been taken into the care of the GRSPCA for assessment, and an investigation is currently underway,” said spokesperson Megan Botha.

“The calves are safe and are receiving the necessary care alongside many other animals that the Garden Route SPCA has taken in during this disaster. The circumstances surrounding this case are currently being investigated in conjunction with law enforcement authorities.”

Members of the public are encouraged to contact the Garden Route SPCA should they have any concerns relating to animal welfare, cruelty, neglect, or animals in distress, she said.

Upon arrival on the farm, eight calves that were still alive were removed into the care of GRSPCA for examination and ongoing care. The deceased calves were also taken in as part of the investigation process and for post-mortem examination.

Earth Pet has tips for when a farmer or an individual wishes to dispose of the carcass of an animal:

• Check whether any municipal bylaws impose additional restrictions on the disposal of animal bodies, and if so, comply with the bylaws.
• Establish whether or not the body is infectious or contains hazardous chemicals by asking a veterinarian.
• Ensure that any infectious or hazardous animal body is disposed of at a waste management facility that holds a waste management licence authorising it to dispose of hazardous waste.
• Ensure that any non-infectious and or hazardous animal body is disposed of at an authorised waste management facility or buried or disposed of.
• If the person who owned the animal or the veterinarian uses a contractor to transport and dispose of a body, the owner or veterinarian must take reasonable measures to ensure that that person will do so legally.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame dg

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