Covid-19 – Edenvale SPCA appeals for assistance during lockdown
“It will be a very difficult time for us all but we have faith that we will be okay and we will get through this time.”
Despite the nationwide lockdown, Edenvale SPCA’s team will continue to work, ensuring animals are well cared for and their rights protected.
Inspector Jade Nel of the Edenvale Branch said although the team will still work during the lockdown several changes were made to the organisation to reduce the spread of Covid-19.
Nel said during the lockdown, no adoptions, no boarding unless for emergencies, no vaccinations or sterilisations will be allowed.
“The SPCA’s store will be closed and we will not be open to the public at all.”
SPCA staff will remain on-site to look after all animals in their care.
Should residents’ pets go missing, they will be able to claim them via appointment only.
A phone call will have to be made and community members must provide a picture identifying their pet to the SPCA.
“Once this is done, we will give them a time to come and collect from us.”
Nel said pound fees will still apply, R100 pound fee, R20 tag or R200 chip.
She emphasised that no animal will leave the SPCA without identification.
“Should the animal spend more than one night with us, we will charge boarding at R50 per night extra.”
Besides the day-to-day running of the branch, inspectors will be proactive and inspect pet shops, sale yards, abattoirs, zoos, aquariums and wildlife facilities; security companies are to ensure that no animal suffers.
“We will still be collecting stray animals, we would ask the public if they could confine any stray animals in their properties for us until we can get there.”
Nel appealed to the community for assistance as the organisation will work on skeleton staff with only one inspector.
“It will be a very difficult time for us all but we have faith that we will be okay and we will get through this time.”
Speaking on the matter of animals being abandoned or surrendered for fear of them transmitting the virus, Nel said no animals had been abandoned at Edenvale because of the virus nor had she heard of any cases.
In terms of the number of abandoned or surrendered animals, there have been no abnormal changes.
Nel said humans could not transfer the virus to their dogs.
On March 23, the SA Veterinary Association (SAVA) posted information on Facebook explaining the virus.
The post said, “There is no evidence to suggest any animals, including pets, livestock or wildlife, might be a source of Covid-19 infection at this time.”
Nel advised community members who are fearful that their pet may have the virus to remember that the animal is part of their family.
“Do not listen to other people’s advice, rather research your concerns.”
“Keep up to date with the SAVA on their Facebook page or website, all information needed is there.”
Alternatively, community members can contact their local veterinarian for assistance.
Contact Edenvale SPCA on 011 974 9268.
