A recent dog attack in Cedara has reignited public fears over stray and unsupervised pets, prompting urgent calls for pet owners to take responsibility for the safety of their animals and their communities.
Earlier this week, a local woman was attacked by a rabid dog while jogging through the Cedara tunnel. The incident left her hospitalised, with serious injuries to her legs and arms.
The incident was described as relentless, stating that “the dog knocked her down, tore at her limbs, and returned to bite her multiple times.”
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This horrifying incident has stirred unease across the Midlands, where residents say they frequently encounter dogs roaming unsupervised — many of which display aggressive behaviour.
Julia Botha, a Howick resident and avid jogger, shared her distress over the number of dogs she comes across while jogging, with many of them having attacked her on different occasions.
“I love dogs, but I’ve been attacked too many times while jogging. Some of these dogs charge out of open gates or follow you threateningly. It’s terrifying. My own dog was once injured so badly, I had to spend thousands on vet bills after another dog attacked us during a walk,” said Botha.
Botha said she was frustrated over the increasing number of pet owners who allow their animals to roam freely, especially in areas where children play and families walk.
We should feel safe walking down our streets. But now, there are roads we avoid because of loose dogs. It’s heartbreaking to watch children take long detours just to avoid a threatening animal
The incident in Cedara has further fuelled community anxiety, with some residents now carrying sticks or pepper spray during walks as a means of protection. Botha said she used to try to help strays, but lately thinks twice about it.
The uMngeni SPCA said it frequently receives complaints about dogs roaming the streets. In response, they’ve reiterated the importance of responsible pet ownership.
uMngeni SPCA’s general manager, Kevin Khumalo, said that the bylaws require a person who keeps any animal to ensure that it is kept under proper and effective control when it leaves the premises, and that it does not endanger any person, animal or property when it leaves the premises.
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“Dogs must be on a leash or otherwise secured when in a public environment. An owner is liable for any damages caused or injuries sustained by other animals or people, and hefty fines or direct imprisonment can be imposed,” said Khumalo.
