Question NW2693 to the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
19 October 2023 - NW2693
Mbabama, Ms TM to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
What steps is her department taking (a) with regard to the vicious breeds of dogs that are kept by people to ensure that the animals are kept adequately and (b) to assure the public that no more people will be attacked and killed by the vicious breeds of dogs?
Reply:
a) The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) jointly with some Municipalities (e.g. City of Tshwane) and other relevant role players are organising dog safety and wellness campaigns to teach the public about safe dog keeping, management, controlled breeding, and wellness. This information will also be made available online and through publications (brochures) to empower members of the public.
b) Keeping of vicious dogs and related matters are governed by the Animal Matters Amendment Act, 1993 (Act No. 42 of 1993), which is administered by the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development.
DALRRD is working with the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development to amend the Animal Matters Amendment Act, 1993 (Act 42 of 1993), to strengthen the Act with respect to offences and penalties.
We are also looking into DNA investigation to confirm the exact breeds of these types of dogs.