Western Cape Court Orders Pit Bulls Seized After Brutal Attacks at Caledon Home

The Western Cape High Court has stepped in after three serious dog attacks at a Caledon property left multiple people hospitalised. Judge Daniel Thulare ruled that two Pit Bulls and a mixed breed dog belonging to businesswoman Romanda Marais must be handed over to the Theewaterskloof Municipal Pound for urgent evaluation.

A salon turned danger zone

Marais, who runs a nail salon from her home, has faced mounting complaints after visitors to her property were mauled on three separate occasions. Victims included a foster volunteer, a salon client, and a building contractor all of whom sustained severe bite injuries requiring extended hospital stays.

In one chilling account, a woman collecting a foster cat was attacked after Marais allegedly encouraged the dogs to “say hello.” The animals overpowered her, dragging and biting her despite Marais shouting commands. The victim’s arms, legs, and back were mauled as she desperately tried to flee.

Another salon client was attacked inside the wendy house salon after Marais allegedly opened a gate despite the customer’s fears. A contractor who arranged to have the dogs locked away for safety was also ambushed when they gained access to the yard, suffering multiple bites.

Court orders and public safety

Judge Thulare ordered that the dogs be delivered to the municipal pound by 26 August 2025. Should Marais fail to comply, the municipality has the authority to impound the animals under its by-laws.

The court directed that the dogs be assessed by a veterinary surgeon and pound officials, who will evaluate their behaviour, aggression history, health, and potential for rehabilitation. If deemed too dangerous, humane euthanasia may be recommended.

Theewaterskloof Municipality welcomed the ruling, stating:

“Our responsibility remains to act in terms of the applicable by-laws and to prioritise public safety. We will therefore proceed in line with the court’s decision.”

A twist of irony

Adding a striking layer of irony, court documents revealed that Marais was once a member of Caledon Animal Care and even a registered SPCA inspector. One of the victims had previously fostered cats from her in 2023 only to later be mauled on the same property.

Bigger debate on dangerous breeds

The ruling reignites South Africa’s ongoing debate about Pit Bulls and public safety. While animal rights groups argue that poor ownership and training are the root causes of aggression, communities across the country have repeatedly called for stricter laws following fatal and near-fatal attacks.

For now, the fate of Marais’ dogs rests on whether experts believe they can be rehabilitated or whether their history of repeated attacks has sealed their fate.

{Source: IOL}

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