NSPCA Opposes Push to Legalise Dog Hunting and Greyhound Racing

A Revival of Controversial Practices

Greyhound racing was outlawed 76 years ago. Now, the Amaphisi Hunters’ Association (AHA), with backing from the South African Dog Racing Association (SADRA) and GFA, has submitted a memorandum to the Presidency seeking changes to environmental and animal welfare laws. The associations argue that legalisation would create jobs, preserve culture, and boost the economy.

The AHA also proposes exclusive control over hunting with dogs, including rights to state land hunts and breeding privileges funded by greyhound racing revenue. They suggest hunting seasons, limited licences, and rules to restrain dogs until prey is identified as measures to reduce harm.

NSPCA Stands Firm

The NSPCA rejects these proposals, stating that cruelty is unavoidable. “We cannot use the facade of tradition and job creation to justify what is ultimately the deliberate and cruel commodification and exploitation of animals,” said Grace de Lange, NSPCA Chief Operations Officer.

Over more than three decades, the NSPCA has documented abuse in both greyhound racing and hunting. Dogs are often deprived of food, water, shelter, and veterinary care. Overbreeding contributes to overpopulation, while prey animals frequently suffer prolonged deaths.

The council emphasises that these practices contravene the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962, which prohibits baiting or inciting one animal to attack another.

Public and Legal Pushback

The NSPCA has lodged urgent objections with the Presidency and the Department of Agriculture, asserting its legal mandate to prevent cruelty. It calls on South Africans to oppose what it terms an attempt to “legalise cruelty” under the guise of cultural preservation and economic benefit.

While supporters frame greyhound racing and hunting with dogs as heritage activities that generate income, the NSPCA warns the welfare costs to both dogs and prey species are too high to ignore.

What’s Next

The memorandum has sparked public debate about where tradition ends and animal welfare begins. With proposals now before the Presidency, South Africans are being asked to weigh economic and cultural arguments against decades of documented cruelty.

{Source: IOL}

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