An Empty Bowl Doesn't Mean an Empty Stomach

There is a common misconception that a dog's food bowl must always contain food. This is NOT a requirement under the Animal Protection Act 71 of 1962.

The Act requires that an owner provides :

• Adequate, wholesome food in sufficient quantity to maintain the dog's health and body condition.

• Continuous access to clean drinking water.

• Proper care to prevent unnecessary suffering.

Most adult dogs are fed once or twice a day. Once they have eaten, it is normal for the food bowl to be empty until the next meal.

An empty food bowl DOES NOT automatically mean the dog is being neglected or abused.

During an animal welfare inspection, we assess the dog's overall condition, including :

✔️ Body condition (is the dog healthy and not underweight?)

✔️ Access to clean drinking water.

✔️ Whether the dog is receiving sufficient food on a regular basis.

✔️ The animal's general health and welfare.

A dog that is healthy, maintains a good body condition, and is fed appropriately is NOT being neglected simply because its food bowl is empty between meals.