By Staff Reporter
The Zimbabwe National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ZNSPCA) says the Harare pitbulls which mauled an innocent resident to death over the weekend were poorly socialised and neglected.
This follows the case of a Harare man, Mr Samuel Machera, who was on Saturday night mauled to death by vicious dogs owned by Mr Mike Mupinga, who is scheduled to appear in court today on culpable homicide charges.
What began as an ordinary Saturday evening stroll ended in tragedy for Mr Machera, a resident who never made it back home.
“The animals were humanely euthanised, in accordance with animal welfare protocols and in the interest of public safety. Initial assessments indicate clear evidence of neglect, confinement and poor socialisation of the animals involved,” they said.
“Such conditions are known to severely affect canine behaviour and are especially dangerous when present in certain breeds, particularly those already classified as high-risk or dangerous.”
The ZNSPCA strongly cautioned the public against the ownership, breeding and cross-breeding of dangerous dog breeds.
“These animals require specialised handling, socialisation and containment responsibilities that, if neglected, can result in tragic consequences such as these,” they said.
“If you require assistance with regards to appropriate animal care, advice or wish to surrender your animal please approach any SPCA where we stand ready to assist.”
They added: “We urgently call on members of the public not to keep dogs if unable to provide proper care, safety and socialisation. Ownership is a responsibility not a right.
“Furthermore, we reiterate our urgent appeal to Government authorities and municipal leaders to address the escalating crisis of backyard breeding and illegal dog sales.”
Several countries have taken a firm stance against pit bulls due to safety concerns, with outright bans or strict regulations in place. Among these are the United Kingdom under the Dangerous Dogs Act, Australia, New Zealand, and parts of Canada such as Ontario.
Residents are now calling for urgent action from authorities to ensure that such a tragedy never repeats itself.
Many expressed concerns over the growing number of unrestrained dogs roaming in residential areas, some of which appear to be trained to attack.
