Disturbing scenes along the R300 near Samora Machel formed part of an incident that prompted an urgent warning over dogs allegedly being used to lure motorists into robbery or hijacking attempts.
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The Animal Welfare Society of South Africa has issued an urgent warning following an incident on Sunday, in which two dogs were found hanging from a wall along the R300 near the Samora Machel area, in what they believe is 'a tactic used to lure motorists into robbery or hijacking attempts'.
Hospital manager and veterinary nurse Jaque le Roux said the organisation was alerted by a passing motorist who noticed the horrific scene and suspected it could be a trap.
"We have dealt with stabbed dogs, dogs that have been shot, and burned. Very tragic abuse and neglect cases on a daily basis in the hospital. This was one of the most horrific incidents that we have dealt with," said Le Roux.
He said despite the hospital operating for more than 90 years, the image of the dogs hanging from the wall was among the most harrowing scenes staff had encountered.
Le Roux said the motorist contacted the society instead of stopping.
"I immediately dispatched an inspector and senior nurse from the hospital immediately to assist. When they got there, the dogs had already passed away due to being strangulated to death," he said.
Two dogs were found hanging from a wall along the R300 near Samora Machel on April 26, prompting an urgent warning from the Animal Welfare Society of South Africa.
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"At the same time, while they were trying to untie the dogs, they were approached by a couple of guys who attempted to rob them and who we believe attempted to hijack the vehicle."
Le Roux said the organisation believes criminals may be using the tactic to target animal lovers or concerned motorists travelling on the busy road.
"We believe this is a tactic that they are using to lure unsuspecting animal lovers who drive on the busy road, who may stop to make a phone call to report or who may want to help save a life. It is heartbreaking to see animals being used like this."
He said the society was following leads and trying to establish who may be behind the killings.
"It is visible that those two dogs suffered horrific deaths and died while trying to free themselves," he said.
Le Roux also called for greater intervention by authorities.
"We need the police force to flag issues where animals and dogs are concerned on the roads and by the use and abuse of human beings."
The society urged motorists not to stop if they encounter similar scenes, but instead to immediately contact its emergency hotline on 082 601 1761.
Sergeant Wesley Twigg, media liaison officer from the South African Police Service, said no formal case of robbery or hijacking linked to the dogs being hanged had been opened.
lilita.gcwabe@inl.co.za