Zia is home, and that is something her family almost didn’t get to say.
Cape Town, South Africa (21 December 2025) – Earlier this month, a four-year-old brindle cross named Zia was stabbed in the face with a large knife at her home in Kirstenhof.
The blade was driven into her nasal cavity with such force that it missed her brain by just millimetres. Any deeper, and she wouldn’t have survived.
Her owner, Jonathan, rushed her to the Cape of Good Hope SPCA Animal Hospital. He was distraught and in tears. The video (shared below) is incredibly difficult to watch.
Vets began emergency treatment straight away. X-rays were taken to map the blade’s position before it could be surgically removed, and her extensive internal injuries repaired.
At the same time, SPCA inspectors immediately launched a full cruelty investigation.
Within 31 minutes of Zia arriving at the hospital, inspectors, working with Kirstenhof Crime Watch, had sourced and analysed CCTV footage from the area. Three teenagers were identified. By the next day, the senseless minors had been brought to SAPS by their parents.
“Following discussions with the SPCA, the boys’ parents personally brought their children to SAPS Kirstenhof. Initial claims that the stabbing was an act of self-defence are considered baseless, given the evidence the SPCA has at hand. We commend the parents for their responsible actions.” shared the Cape of Good Hope SPCA.
A criminal docket, supported by veterinary, photographic and video evidence, was opened under the Animals Protection Act. While the legal process moved forward, Zia fought her way through recovery.
The internal damage is severe and came with long-term complications. Treatment continued, and she received strong antibiotic and analgesic support. Finally, the most hopeful sign came when she was finally able to eat on her own.
This week, she was discharged and reunited with her family.
We’re sharing the video below. It shows the heartbreaking and, honestly, difficult-to-watch moment where Zia first arrives at the SPCA, and the most beautiful one, when she’s reunited with her dad.
“She is now exactly where she belongs: safe, loved and surrounded by those who cherish her. Her journey is a powerful reminder of why swift intervention, skilled care and confronting cruelty matter. We extend our sincere thanks to our veterinary team, inspectors and law enforcement partners for their rapid response – and to Zia’s family for their trust and courage throughout this ordeal.” shares the SPCA.
For now, the good news is that Zia survived. She is safe. And she is back where she belongs.
“This was an act of horrific cruelty. Our inspectors acted swiftly and will pursue the matter to its fullest legal conclusion. Zia’s suffering cannot be undone. Accountability must follow. I acknowledge the parents who chose to bring their sons to SAPS. This was not an easy decision, but it was the right one. Violence cannot be excused, and actions must carry consequences. It is regrettable that Zia is paying a price for a hard life lesson.” shares SPCA Chief Inspector Jaco Pieterse
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