The City of Cape Town is facing accusations of inaction and intimidation towards Cape of Good Hope SPCA inspectors at the International American Bully Show in Milnerton.
The SPCA raised concerns about American bully breeds with cropped ears, a violation of the Animals Protection Act, and criticized the City’s conduct.
According to the SPCA, the event organizers failed to obtain necessary permits for the show, contravening City bylaws. Despite notifying the City of the violations, the SPCA claims it faced resistance and threats of arrest by City officials.
The SPCA expressed concerns about the City’s inconsistent approach to event permits, jeopardizing animal welfare and event integrity.
In response, the City of Cape Town stated that its permit officials visited the scene and determined that no event permit was required.
The decision was based on factors such as the number of attendees, absence of significant structures requiring permits, minimal sound levels, and confined activities to the hall.
The City clarified that 48 permit applications for various events during the long weekend required attention, and there were no threats of arrest made toward the SPCA. The City expressed its commitment to fostering a positive relationship with the SPCA and the wider animal welfare sector.