Cape Town man receives maximum penalty for starving Boerboel dogs

THE maximum sentence permitted by law has been imposed in an animal cruelty case following an investigation into the neglect of two Boerboels.

The Cape of Good Hope SPCA welcomed the Muizenberg Magistrates’ Court sentence handed down to 52-year-old Reidwaan Hoosain of a R40,000 fine or 12 months’ imprisonment, wholly suspended. A conviction under this Act carries a criminal record.

This followed more than three years of legal pursuit after two severely emaciated Boerboels were removed from a Seawinds property in 2022.

Inspector Jeffrey Mfini had responded to a complaint about two Boerboels described as looking like skeletons.

Upon arrival at the property, he met the property owner, who confirmed that the dogs belonged to her tenants residing at the back of the property. Shortly thereafter, Hoosain identified himself as the owner of the dogs and led Inspector Mfini to them.

Mfini found two emaciated adult Boerboel dogs, named Rocky and Milo.

“Their skeletal frames were visible. They were infested with fleas and ticks. Milo had developed pressure sores on her hip bones. There was no water available to the dogs. When asked to produce dog food, the owner failed to do so. He claimed he was feeding 'house food', yet could not demonstrate any adequate feeding regime,” the organisation said. 

“No veterinary intervention had been sought. No meaningful effort had been made to alleviate their suffering.”

This resulted in the dogs being subsequently removed by Mfini and criminal charges being lodged against the owner.

After almost three years and four months, Hoosain was found guilty and convicted.

“When courts impose maximum sentences, they send a clear message: this conduct will not be tolerated.

“We hope that other magistrates across South Africa follow this example and begin handing down the maximum penalties permitted by law in appropriate cases. The legislation exists. The penalties are available. The courts must use them,” the SPCA said.

Cape Times