Cape Town Principal Under Fire for Ordering Paralyzed Dog to Be Buried Alive on School Grounds

In Cape Town, South Africa, a troubling incident unfolded at Luhlaza Secondary School in the Khayelitsha district when the school's principal, Manono Makhaphela, ordered a small, paralyzed dog to be buried alive.

The dog, named Lily, was described by Makhaphela as a significant "nuisance" because she frequently barked for food on the school playground.

Fortunately, one school cleaner, Bukelwa Mbulawa, took a stand against this inhumane decision and contacted the Mdzananda Animal Clinic to intervene, ultimately saving Lily's life.

Rescuers arrived quickly, finding Lily buried on the school's tennis courts, merely 1.5 meters beneath the surface.

She was rushed to a veterinary facility where it was confirmed that a previous spinal cord injury had caused her back legs to be paralyzed, but she fortunately suffered no severe injuries from her ordeal.

The actions of Makhaphela led to legal proceedings, as he was brought to the Khayelitsha Magistrates Court on charges of animal cruelty, unnecessary suffering, and neglect.

He was fined 6,000 South African Rand, with half of the amount suspended for five years contingent upon him implementing an educational program at his school to raise awareness about animal protection.

Jane Levinson, project manager at the Mdzananda Animal Clinic, testified against Makhaphela, and Marcelle du Plessis, the clinic's Fundraising and Media Manager, expressed appreciation for the legal proceedings.

"We hope Mr. Makhaphela complies," du Plessis stated, noting that Makhaphela is required to submit a progress report on his educational program every six months for the next five years to the clinic.

Du Plessis emphasized the significance of this incident, stating, "While our priority is seeking justice for Lily, this case serves as a broader example and warning against future acts of animal maltreatment."

In a related turn of events, two janitors accused of assisting in Lily's burial, Poto Mfengu and Mkhumbuzi Ncedana, were sentenced to complete 150 hours of community service at the Mdzananda Animal Clinic as part of their punishment for their role in the act of animal cruelty.