A final pathology report into the death of SAPS service dog Sky has revealed that she sustained multiple traumatic injuries, including fractures to both front legs, extensive tissue damage, and wounds estimated to be between 12 and 16 hours old. The report, received by Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Police chairperson Ian Cameron, detailed the devastating extent of Sky's injuries, which ultimately led to her euthanasia.
According to the pathology report, Sky's left front leg had a fractured bone that protruded through the skin, resulting in an open fracture. The report also recorded severe muscle breakdown, which resulted in changes to her kidneys, as well as acute changes to her heart muscle. Her injuries were regarded as likely to have been imminently fatal had she not been euthanised.
The pathology findings also revealed severe dental wear across all of Sky's teeth, which could not be explained by her age. Pathologists recommended that compulsive behaviour be investigated as a possible explanation for the unusual dental wear. Multiple penetrating wounds were also documented, including one crescent-shaped wound that was considered capable of having been self-inflicted.
The report did not establish the cause of Sky's injuries or how she came to remain in the circumstances in which she was found. Those questions now form part of the investigations into her death, which include processes by SAPS, the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), the NSPCA, and the South African Veterinary Council.
Several investigations are currently underway into the circumstances surrounding Sky's injuries and death. IPID has formally confirmed an independent investigation into the matter, while the NSPCA and South African Veterinary Council are also conducting their respective processes. A General has been appointed to head the SAPS internal investigation, with the police expected to complete their report by October 9.
Ian Cameron, chairperson of Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Police, has maintained that the investigation should extend beyond determining what happened to Sky and should examine broader animal welfare practices within SAPS. He said the matter is bigger than one dog and that Sky's death has raised serious questions about animal welfare, supervision, kennel conditions, veterinary care, staffing, procurement, and accountability within SAPS facilities.
Cameron has vowed that the difficult questions surrounding Sky's death will not be allowed to disappear. He said Sky served the South African Police Service and the public, and that she deserved protection, proper care, and dignity. The investigation will continue to examine the circumstances surrounding Sky's death and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
Key points
- The pathology report revealed that Sky sustained multiple traumatic injuries, including fractures to both front legs and extensive tissue damage.
- Several investigations are currently underway into the circumstances surrounding Sky's injuries and death.
- The investigation will examine broader animal welfare practices within SAPS, including supervision, kennel conditions, and veterinary care.
