The body of a 7-month-old labrador was discovered less than a kilometre from her family home where it was apparently dumped after she was forced into an illegal dogfight.
A poster of Bailey took over social media this past weekend when the owners of the missing dog asked people whether they had seen the puppy.
Caleb Oliphant, whose family owned Bailey, is overwhelmed by all the support but saddened by her horrific death.
He said Bailey was kidnapped from the family home in Hawston on Friday (28 January) by three minors. “These minors stole her and injured her, and allegedly forced her into an illegal fight with a pitbull,” Oliphant said, clearly distressed. “After the fight she was dumped in bushes about 600 metres from our home.”
Dr Annelie Rabie, Mayor of Overstrand, said Bailey’s death caused an outcry for justice for animals. “Something needs to be done about the theft and abuse of dogs, which are sentient animals,” she said. “I have been inundated with info of illegal dog fights and dogs being used as a bartering tool for contraband. The Overstrand Municipality’s Directorate of Protection Services has already opened a case. An experienced investigator will deal with what will be called the ‘Bailey’ docket.”
Oliphant said at this stage he could not divulge any additional information on the case as Law Enforcement was busy with their investigation. “I, however, want to take the opportunity to thank Norah Hudson, Wilna Hendriks and Leigh Bouwer for sharing information of Bailey on Facebook that eventually helped us find her.
“It is absolutely important that whoever has information on any illegal activity involving animals should please come forward.
“Meanwhile, I will keep a close eye on this matter and request regular feedback from the relevant directorate,” says Rabie.
The Oliphants describe Bailey as an extremely scared yet loveable pup. “Bailey was a one-month-old rescue labrador puppy when we got her,” Oliphant said. “She trusted only us as her family and wasn’t really enthusiastic about any new visitors, and it took a while for us to earn her trust. She was really a special soul to us and always added that extra bit of charm and comedy to our happy bunch. There will always be something missing in our family and we will forever miss her.”
. The case of Hector the dog has been postponed to 17 February. It is being brought before Hermanus Magistrates’ Court. During March 2021 a video started doing the rounds showing how the 7-month-old boxer puppy was beaten. A couple was hired to pet-sit when the incident was recorded on CCTV.
