One Million Chickens, One Disaster: The NSPCA Takes Legal Action Against Daybreak Farms

 

This morning on The Morning Cruise, we explored one of South Africa’s most heartbreaking animal welfare stories — a case that has shocked the nation and made headlines internationally. Over one million chickens suffered under severe neglect at Daybreak Farms, leading the NSPCA (National Council of Societies for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) to take criminal action.

We were joined by Jake Peacock, Communication Manager at the NSPCA, to unpack the investigation, the legal response, and how the public can help.

 How It All Started

“It all started with a single complaint,” Jake explained, “which led to uncovering widespread evidence of gross negligence, mismanagement, and inhumane treatment.”

What followed was a devastating discovery: systemic cruelty and suffering on an industrial scale. Daybreak’s leadership, according to the NSPCA, failed entirely in their responsibility — an act not only unethical but criminal.

⚖️ Criminal Charges Filed

In response, the NSPCA filed a case under the Animals Protection Act, targeting the Board of Directors at Daybreak Farms. Despite the legal intervention, the company has since entered business rescue, which now threatens the NSPCA’s ability to recover over R580,000 in emergency costs.

“We’re a nonprofit with no government funding. This case has drained our resources,” Jake said.
“And now it may be nearly impossible to get those funds back.”

 Why This Matters

Some may question why the case has received so much attention — after all, “it’s just chickens.” But the NSPCA urges the public to understand:

“South Africa’s Constitutional Court recognizes animals as sentient beings. They feel pain. They suffer. And they deserve legal protection, just like dogs, cats, or wild animals.”

The law makes no distinction in the worth of animal lives. Every animal is valued, and every instance of cruelty must be taken seriously.

 What You Can Do

So how can the public help? The NSPCA is calling for:

• Financial support to help cover legal and operational costs.

• Public awareness: Share the story, speak out against cruelty.

• Community vigilance: This crisis began with one complaint — never underestimate the power of reporting animal abuse.

“Follow us on social media. Report anything you suspect. That’s how we prevent future tragedies,” Jake said.

 Learn More & Get Involved

You can find more information or donate by visiting:
👉 www.nspca.co.za

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