Strand dog owner arrested after severely neglected German Shepherd found in collapse

A Strand man has been arrested after his 14-year-old German Shepherd was found in an "advanced state of collapse."

Jessie, the elderly German Shepherd, was discovered on Saturday, November 15, after a member of the public reported seeing her lying helplessly in the sand, according to Belinda Abraham, the spokesperson for the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA).

Ms Abraham said the dog was emaciated, unable to stand, and suffering from multiple infected wounds.

Inspector Prosper Kanengoni, of the Animal Welfare Helderberg, responded to the scene and transported Jessie to their site, where veterinary staff determined that her condition was irreversible. She was humanely euthanised to end her suffering, according to Ms Abraham.

The SPCA collected her remains for a full post-mortem, conducted by a private veterinary pathologist. The findings will be used as evidence in the criminal case.

The dog’s owner was arrested on Friday, November 21, for charges under the Animals Protection Act No 71 of 1962.

Police spokesperson Captain F.C Van Wyk said: "A  44-year-old male was arrested. He was released on a warning to appear at the Strand Magistrates' Court on Friday, February 20, 2026, for the mentioned charges. Investigation continues."

Chief Inspector Jaco Pieterse of the SPCA said the condition in which the dog was found indicated that she had suffered for a long time.

"No animal deteriorates to this state overnight. Jessie suffered, and she suffered for a long time. Her owner had every opportunity to seek help, and they chose not to. Neglect is cruelty, and it is a criminal offence,” he said.

Animal Welfare Helderberg general manager, Julia Evans, said Jessie’s condition reflected “a level of suffering that no animal should ever endure.”

“Jessie could not even be touched without crying out. Ending her pain was the only humane choice. What happened to her was unacceptable and preventable,” she said.

According to the organisations, Jessie showed signs of prolonged neglect, including ulcerated wounds, severe emaciation, dental disease, pressure sores, and an inability to walk. Veterinarians also recorded a dangerously low body temperature and signs of systemic infection.

Both organisations said the case is being built with affidavits, veterinary reports, and expert evidence, and vowed to testify in court. They are also appealing to the public for support to cover the investigation and legal costs.

“Justice for Jessie begins with accountability. We have the evidence. Now we need the public to stand behind this fight,” said Mr Pieterse.