Content Warning: Footage may be found disturbing
The National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) has confirmed the departure of the livestock carrier Al Kuwait, which recently docked in Cape Town harbour. The vessel set sail for Iraq on Tuesday evening once the necessary feed had been loaded onto it.
Also read: Update: SPCA exposes harrowing conditions aboard ‘Kuwaiti death ship’
The NSPCA, with the assistance of its member society, the Cape of Good Hope SPCA, inspected the vessel from Sunday to Tuesday. The scenes on the vessel were abhorrent, with an extreme buildup of faeces and urine and animals forced to rest in dams of their own excrement.
Compromised animals were discovered, including diseased and injured ones. The NSPCA humanely euthanised eight cows aboard the ship, while others were discovered dead. Dr Bryce Marock, NSPCA Veterinary Consultant, ensured that other animals received proper veterinary care.
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‘This incident serves as a stark reminder that the live export of animals by sea is a gruesome and outdated practice that inflicts unnecessary suffering on sentient beings,’ read a statement from the NSPCA. ‘It underscores the urgent need for legislative reform and heightened global awareness to end this cruelty once and for all. This method of trade causes pain, suffering and distress to many animals, including high mortality rates occurring during the voyage.’
‘The NSPCA stands firm in its assertion that no country possesses the capacity or competence to ensure or guarantee adequate animal welfare standards aboard livestock vessels.’
The NSPCA further expressed gratitude towards the South African Government for permitting the ship to dock for the crucial purpose of loading feed.
‘The potential consequences of leaving those animals without sustenance during the arduous journey are unfathomable. We appreciate the government’s recognition, now more than ever, of the necessity for regulations rather than mere guidelines regarding the export of animals.’
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‘While a complete ban on live animal exports via sea remains the ultimate goal, we urge the government to refrain from authorising another shipment from South Africa until these regulations are firmly established as a matter of utmost urgency.’
‘The NSPCA extends its heartfelt gratitude to the unwavering support of the public, both locally and internationally. We are extremely grateful for Animals Australia, our Australian counterpart for their dedication to our cause. Together, we strive towards a future where the exploitation and suffering of animals in the name of commerce are no longer tolerated.’
Also read:
Transnet allowed livestock carrier to dock for the sake of animal welfare
Picture: NSPCA