When Maximus was first
brought to LSPCA he weighed a mere 22 kg, unusual for a dogs of his size, his was
body dehydrated and infested with fleas, his legs swollen and with several
wounds.
Although it was
evident that this male adult German shepherd had suffered extensively at the
hands of his owners (Universal Security Company) he still remained a good
natured dog.
Maximus along with 6
other dogs were brought to LSPCA clinic in September, 2013 after being rescued
from Universal Security Company upon receiving tips from the public of the
harsh conditions that the dogs were being subdued to.
The
dogs were found in a broken down vehicle that had been used to transfer them
from where they had been guarding. They
were tied
to the truck and made sit in the sun for several hours on the side of the road without
food or water.
It was instantly discovered
that the dogs were being kept in the sun for
over 5 hours without any food or water. Worse still, the food that was provided
to them was barely enough to fill their empty stomachs.
Fortunately, with support
from the Malawi Police, LSPCA managed to confiscate all six dogs and
immediately began a series of medical treatments while placed in quarantine for
30 days.
The dogs were given rabies
vaccines, deworming and flea treatment. With proper love and care, the dogs
have now gained over 3kgs since they were first brought to LSPCA.
As one LSPCA staff
members recalls, the dogs were really in a pathetic state, they would finish an
entire bowl of dog food within seconds but still wanting more.
Today the dogs look
nothing like the skinny, unhealthy dogs that they were barely two months ago.
Evidence provided by
LSPCA veterinarians were enough for the courts to declare Universal Security Company
guilty of cruelty to animals and were ordered to pay a fine of K80, 000 or risk
a prison sentence of 12 months.
Although the court
ruling appeared lenient, it is however promising to note that the Malawian Police
and judicial system are slowly starting recognize crimes of animal cruelly as a
major offence and are starting to take an active role in ensuring that the
welfare of all animals are guarded. This is evident by the establishment of a
special Police taskforce dedicated to the protection animal welfare.
Luckily for Maximus
and his fury friends, their life story does not end at LSPCA. Four dogs,
including Maximus have been adopted, begining new chapter in lives.
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