The NSPCA has shared an update in Bobby’s animal cruelty case, with a second accused now added to the charge sheet as the matter moves closer to trial.
Boksburg, South Africa (19 June 2026) – Do you remember sweet Bobby? She was the severely neglected dog whose condition sparked outrage last year, after she appeared in the background of a social media video looking heartbreakingly thin and unwell.
The footage sparked widespread concern and led to intervention by the NSPCA, which removed Bobby from the situation and launched an investigation.
Now, nearly a year later, the NSPCA has shared an important update on the court proceedings.
On 18 June, NSPCA Inspector Govender was back at the Boksburg Magistrates’ Court, where a second accused was formally added to the case. Tshiamo ‘Sasha-Lee’ Kgasago, the very influencer whose video first brought Bobby’s shocking condition to public attention, now appears alongside Elliot Tshigo, Bobby’s previous owner.
According to the NSPCA, it pushed for the influencer to be charged under the Animals Protection Act, arguing that she failed to seek help for Bobby despite the dog’s visibly emaciated condition appearing in her video on social media.
The organisation confirmed that the State has now added her to the charge sheet.
The matter is now trial-ready, and both accused have been warned to return to court on Monday 22 June. The NSPCA says a warrant for their arrest could be issued should they fail to appear.
The latest development follows several earlier court appearances this year. In March, the NSPCA attended what was expected to be the first appearance in the matter, only to discover the case had not initially been placed on the court roll. After follow-ups by the organisation, the matter proceeded and was subsequently postponed to allow for legal representation and further preparations.
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While the legal process continues, there is one part of Bobby’s story that already has a happy ending!
After being rescued, Bobby received extensive care through the Boksburg SPCA. Staff described her as affectionate from the moment she arrived, even despite the condition she had been found in.
As her health improved, so did her chances of finding a family.
Just a few months after her rescue, the Bezuidenhout family met Bobby, fell in love with her gentle nature and welcomed her into their home. The adoption was a perfect fit, and Bobby finally got a safe place to call home.
Today, she is loved, cared for and enjoying the life she has always deserved.
The NSPCA says it remains committed to monitoring the court proceedings and standing ready to testify on Bobby’s behalf when the trial begins.
For now, while the legal case continues, comfort is taken in knowing that Bobby’s story did not end with the video that shocked us all. Instead it became a story of rescue, recovery and a second chance with the best family.
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