Sled dog racing now illegal in South Africa
The Boksburg SPCA has joined the National Council of SPCA (NSPCA) in expressing their support and appreciation on the Courts decision, to illegalise sled dog racing in South Africa.
“As the SPCA, we are committed to prevent cruelty to all animals. Therefore, we appreciate the decision of the Court as we are convinced that the decision will contribute to sound welfare and prevent exploitation of animals by humans,” said Wilma Steynbergh Boksburg SPCA manager.
In the South Gauteng High Court on December 6, last year, Judge Muzi Sikhakhane dismissed the application of the South African Federation of Sled Dog Sports against the NSPCA, and confirmed that Sled dog racing is a form of dog racing.
The Federation put forward that since there was no betting involved (as defined in the Ordinance), racing was not taking place and that interference by the NSPCA in its activities was unlawful.
Sikhwane disagreed.
“The fact that it does not involve betting is of no consequence in my view. The activity is a race,” he said in his judgment.
“I also do not agree with the applicant’s contention that dog racing is commonly understood as many dogs lined up in an arena around a track at the same time without human participation.
The applicant engages in an activity prohibited by the Ordinance.”
The NSPCA has welcomed this ruling, stating that it sends out a stern warning to any parties who wish to push the boundaries of law or challenge those mandated to enforce it.
