20/08/2026
Concern Regarding the Consistent Implementation of the By-Laws – Cats at Shipwreck
With reference to our previous post, as well as the recent article published in The Westlander regarding the cats at Shipwreck, we would like to clarify our position and raise a concern regarding the implementation of the Bergrivier Municipality By-Laws.
Firstly, Velddrif Animal Care respects the By-Laws and fully understands the importance of having regulations in place to protect public health, safety, the environment and the welfare of animals. We believe that properly implemented By-Laws can play an important role in creating a safe and healthy environment for both people and animals.
Our concern arises from a statement made by Law Enforcement in the Westlander article, indicating that only two cats and two dogs are permitted on a property. While we understand the provision, this statement raises an important question for us:
How consistently is this particular By-Law, and the other relevant animal By-Laws, being implemented throughout the entire Bergrivier Municipality?
The By-Laws contain provisions relating to the keeping of dogs, cats and other pets. Among other things, they state that, subject to the relevant provisions, no person may keep more than two dogs or more than two cats on premises without permission from the Municipality. There are also provisions dealing with applications for permission, breeders, fencing, the duties of owners and keepers, and the control of animals in public places.
For example, the By-Laws provide for:
- Permission to be obtained where more than two dogs or cats are kept on a property.
- Specific requirements relating to breeders of dogs and cats.
- Proper and adequate fencing to prevent dogs from leaving premises.
- Owners and keepers being responsible for providing animals with adequate shelter, veterinary care, water and proper food.
- Animals not being permitted to interfere with the comfort, convenience, peace or quiet of other people.
- Dogs and cats not being allowed in streets or public places unless they are properly controlled or on a leash.
- Specific requirements regarding the handling and control of Pitbull dogs in public.
These are only some of the provisions contained in the By-Laws.
Our concern is therefore not with the existence of these laws. Our concern is whether they are being applied consistently and fairly throughout the Municipality.
If the provision regarding the maximum number of cats and dogs on a property is being enforced, should the same standard not be applied consistently in all areas where the By-Laws are applicable?
There are many areas where dogs are regularly seen running loose in public spaces, creating disturbances and tearing open refuse bags in search of food. We also very rarely see Pitbulls being walked in public while wearing a muzzle, despite the specific requirements contained in the By-Laws.
This raises an important question: If a By-Law exists to protect the community, should it not be implemented consistently and fairly?
A By-Law can only effectively serve its purpose when it is properly implemented and enforced.
The Cats at Shipwreck
Regarding the cats at Shipwreck specifically, we believe there is an opportunity for a much more positive and constructive solution.
We understand the concerns of the business and the importance of maintaining a clean, safe and healthy environment for customers, staff and the surrounding community. At the same time, these cats are living beings. They experience hunger, pain, fear and suffering, just as all animals do.
Rather than approaching the matter only from a negative or punitive perspective, why can the business, the Municipality, Law Enforcement, animal welfare organisations and the community not work together to find a practical solution?
If a suitable, humane arrangement could be established for the cats — while ensuring that the area remains clean, safe and properly managed — it could benefit everyone.
A business that demonstrates compassion and works together with the community to find responsible solutions can create a positive image and potentially attract even more support and visitors. Pelikaan Hawe has an opportunity to demonstrate that protecting the environment and caring about animal welfare do not have to be opposing principles.
People and animals can live alongside one another when responsible measures are put in place.
We Need Solutions, Not Division
Our town needs more positive attitudes, cooperation and practical solutions to problems rather than negativity and conflict that can reflect badly on our community.
Velddrif Animal Care is doing its best, with the limited funding available to us, to assist animals in need and ensure that they receive food, veterinary attention, sterilisation and the necessary care.
There are so many animals suffering, and no single organisation or individual can solve the problem alone.
If we work together and support one another, we can achieve so much more.
We respectfully ask that the implementation of the By-Laws be considered as a whole and that the same principles and standards be applied fairly and consistently throughout the Bergrivier Municipality.
Our intention is not to attack anyone, disregard the law or create conflict. Our intention is to ask important questions and encourage constructive cooperation.
Animals matter.
They feel pain.
They feel hunger.
They feel fear.
They deserve responsible care and protection.
Let us work together to ensure that the laws intended to protect our community and animals are implemented fairly, while also looking for humane and practical solutions to situations such as the cats at Shipwreck.
As Proverbs 12:10 reminds us:
«“A righteous person cares for the needs of their animal.”»
We believe that compassion, responsibility and respect for life should be part of the way we build a stronger community.
Let us stand together, find solutions together and make a difference together — for people and for the animals who depend on us.
Kind regards,
Velddrif Animal Care
