SPCA Waltloo Incident (20th January 2025)

To Whom It May Concern,

I am writing to formally lodge a complaint against the SPCA Waltloo branch in Pretoria regarding a deeply distressing incident that occurred on 20 January 2025, during which my dog, Titan (a Chow Chow), was attacked on SPCA premises. Below, I outline the series of events, our subsequent concerns, and my expectations for resolution. Incident Details

At approximately 14:45, I brought my two dogs, Titan and Zeus (a Pomeranian), to the SPCA for flea and tick dipping. After paying the required fee, I was directed by a staff member to the dipping area. On our way there, we passed the SPCA hospital/kennel area, where the gate to a kennel housing a brown Boerboel was inexplicably left open.

The Boerboel approached and began sniffing Titan and Zeus, both of whom were visibly fearful. Concerned for Zeus’s safety due to his small size (4 kg), I picked him up. Moments later, the Boerboel launched a vicious attack on Titan. I attempted to intervene but struggled as I was holding Zeus. The attack only ended when a staff member, later identified as Jennifer (the branch manager), intervened and pulled the Boerboel away. Titan was visibly distressed and limping. Jennifer directed staff to provide initial treatment, which revealed that Titan’s injuries were beyond their capabilities to address. They cleaned his wounds and administered antibiotics, but no thorough examination was performed to assess the extent of his injuries.

Concerns Raised The SPCA staff proposed keeping Titan overnight for a vet to examine him the following day. However, the following concerns compelled me to seek external medical attention: 1. There was no vet on-site, and staff could not provide a clear timeline for when a vet would be available. 2. No effort was made to assess whether Titan had additional injuries beyond the obvious wounds on his front leg. 3. Titan would have been housed in a kennel next to the same Boerboel that attacked him, further compounding his trauma. Despite my reservations, I initially agreed to their proposal. However, upon inspecting the kennel facilities and considering Titan’s visible pain and distress, I decided it was in his best interest to seek immediate care elsewhere. Subsequent Developments I transported Titan to Brooklyn Vet, where a comprehensive assessment was conducted. Their findings (attached) revealed the following: • Two extensive puncture wounds on Titan’s left front limb, necessitating sedation, wound flushing, and the placement of Penrose drains to facilitate drainage. • An additional puncture wound on Titan’s neck, which required shaving and flushing. • Severe pain in the front limb, posing a high risk of infection. Brooklyn Vet prescribed a combination of antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medication to manage Titan’s condition and promote recovery. When I informed SPCA staff of my decision to seek external treatment, they acknowledged responsibility for the incident but stated that they would not cover any costs if I removed Titan from their care. This stance is unacceptable given that the attack occurred due to negligence on SPCA premises.

Request for Resolution While I respect the SPCA’s mission and understand the challenges of running an NPO, this incident highlights a clear lapse in responsibility and care. Specifically: • The Boerboel was not secured as required, resulting in an avoidable attack. • The SPCA failed to provide adequate immediate medical care and a safe environment for Titan post-attack. • The organization’s dismissive response regarding the costs of external treatment lacks empathy and accountability.

As such, I am requesting: 1. A formal apology from the SPCA for the distress caused to Titan and my family. 2. Reimbur*****t of all veterinary expenses incurred as a result of this incident (documentation attached). 3. A detailed account of how this incident occurred and steps being implemented to prevent similar situations in the future. I hope this matter can be resolved amicably and promptly. Should you require further information, I am happy to provide it. Yours sincerely,

Mr. Inyambo Imenda