A consignment of eight antelopes landed at OR Tambo International Airport from the Czech Republic via Germany on Friday, 1 August 2014, without all the necessary veterinary import documentation.
An attempt was made to return the animals to the Czech Republic, but unfortunately, Germany refused their transit through their territory. The importer was also given the option of finding an alternative market for them, which also did not materialise. Among the diseases of concern, is schmallenberg, which has been detected in Europe and remains an OIE unreportable disease, as a result, South Africa does not know the extent of the outbreak.
South Africa, other than its valuable wild life, has an in excess of 20 million susceptible and naive livestock population, which should schmallenberg be introduced to, will suffer great losses. The country is still trying to recover from devastating outbreaks which negatively affected its ability to trade in these animals and their products. Risking the introduction of a new disease will have a crippling effect on the industry, not only as a result of loss of markets, but because of the large mortalities that will be experienced.
To ensure the welfare of the animals, under the circumstances, the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty towards Animals (NSPCA) was called to assist and to assess the situation throughout.
Extensive consultations took place, both internally and with industry representatives. It was agreed that the best option is still to have returned the animals to their country of origin, failing which humane euthanasia remained the best option under the circumstances. Sadly, the animals had to be put down, under the watchful eye of the NSPCA to protect the national herd and flock.
The department will be working with the SAPS, SARS, Department of Environmental Affairs, NSPCA and other relevant departments to resolve the matter. Contact will also be made with the relevant airline and veterinary authorities.
The department would like to thank all parties involved, especially the NSPCA in ensuring the welfare of these animals.
For media enquiries and further information please contact:
Ms Makenosi Maroo
Chief Director: Stakeholder Relations and Communications
Tel: 012 319 6787
Cell: 072 475 2956
E-mail: MakenosiM@daff.gov.za
