Justice for Animal Trust denounces SPCA Windhoek’s stance on eating dogs

Staff Reporter

THE Justice for Animal Trust has distanced itself from statements made by Sylvia Breitenstein, the Operations Director of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) Windhoek, who claimed in a recent interview that the organization does not have a problem with people eating dogs.

“SPCA Windhoek’s assertion that they do not object to people eating dogs and that they see it as their duty to educate on the humane slaughtering of dogs has caused a significant amount of concern and confusion,” the Justice for Animal Trust shared in a statement.
The statement is a joint one, representing the views of the Trust as well as the Civilian Animal Protection Unit (CAPU), Naankuse Anti-poaching and K9 Unit, and SPCA Swakopmund.

The Trust emphasized that the SPCA’s founding principles revolve around promoting animal welfare, advocating against cruelty, and fostering a compassionate approach to all living creatures. The Trust added that these values should guide actions and public statements made by any organizations carrying the SPCA name.

“Given the long-standing recognition that animals are sentient beings, it seems contradictory for SPCA Windhoek to endorse or facilitate the routine consumption of dogs, or any companion animal. Such a stance is at odds with the core values of animal protection and welfare that the SPCA network was founded upon,” the Trust said.

The Justice for Animals Trust, therefore, reassured the public that the Trust, along with their partners, remains committed to promoting the welfare and humane treatment of all animals. However, when it comes to dogs in particular, the Trust further emphasized, with their unique role and bond with humans, the Justice for Animals Trust will continue to advocate that “dogs are our friends, not food”.

“We believe that all animals, including dogs, deserve to be treated with respect, care, and compassion. This belief extends to advocating against the consumption of companion animals and educating the public about the emotional complexity and needs of these animals,” the Justice for Animals Trust added.