VN June 2023

Vetnuus | June 2023 32 Please note that this is part 2 of 3 articles on veterinarians’ roles, rights and duties as set out in the Animals Protection Act, No. 71 of 1962 (“APA”). This article will use a case study involving donkeys in line with this month’s theme. However, it should not be viewed as issues only pertaining to horses, donkeys and mules, and the equine industry. Details of the case study are altered to protect colleagues’identities. The purpose is to provide guidance to veterinarians who are often placed in very difficult situations and inform them of their rights set out by the APA. Veterinarians are very important in the APA (Animal Protection Act). Veterinarians are even given the power to decide when an animal must be euthanased. Furthermore, magistrates often rely on the opinion of a veterinarian in criminal cases, and superior court judges may even require scientific expertise in civil matters. Veterinarians sometimes assume that a magistrate or judge can make any determination based on common sense. This assumption is not always the case, and they sometimes require specific expertise for guidance. We will focus on the role of the veterinarian in the criminal justice system, which many veterinarians in South Africa have some experience with. Typically, they have been approached by an inspector from the NSPCA or a local SPCA, either with the seized animal/s or carcass/s and/or some other form of evidence like footage. Legal Mews VETERINARIANS' ROLE INTHE APPLICATIONOFTHE ANIMALS PROTECTIONACT: PART II Drs Bryce Marock (NSPCA) and Trudie Prinsloo (Legalvet Services) This article is intended to provide information and educate veterinarians on relevant aspects of the law. It is not intended as personal legal advice. SAVA is not responsible or liable for any advice or other information provided herein. Donkeys skinned, and the carcasses simply discarded have been found like this throughout South Africa Cruelty during transport has been a feature of the trade