JSPCA inspector celebrates World Stray Animal Day by raising awareness

The Johannesburg Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (JSPCA) highlighted the plight of stray animals everywhere, especially as the ongoing effects of the pandemic and tougher economic times have led to an increase in the number of stray animals on the streets.

This campaign ran in conjunction with World Stray Animal Day on April 4.

According to Ronald Ramalata, senior inspector at the JSPCA, every year, hundreds of stray animals suffer from neglect, abuse and starvation.

“However, we hope that World Stray Animal Day serves as a reminder that these animals are deserving of care, compassion and respect and that we all have a responsibility to protect them. Sadly though, we are seeing an increase in the number of animals being surrendered to organisations like the JSPCA, with many pet owners struggling to care for their pets due to financial hardships and other challenges.

Second chances

“We believe that every animal deserves a chance at a happy and healthy life. Unfortunately, though, there are still so many pet owners who don’t understand the full responsibility of owning an animal from keeping it safe and healthy to understanding the behavioural changes as their pets grow. Of course, with so much financial pressure on so many people in our country, changes in financial circumstances have led to a marked increase in pets being given up to the JSPCA.

“However, it’s not just responsible pet ownership that plays a role in ensuring that animals are protected from cruelty, neglect and abuse, but the professionals that work tirelessly to investigate reports of animal mistreatment, to ensure that animals are treated with the care and respect they deserve,” said Ramalata.

Ramalata went on to say that animal welfare inspectors are often the first line of defence in protecting animals from harm.

“We have the expertise and knowledge needed to identify signs of abuse or neglect and to take action to ensure that animals are removed from dangerous situations and provided with the care they need.

“In addition to investigating reports of animal cruelty, animal inspectors also play an important role in educating the public about responsible pet ownership and the importance of treating animals with compassion and respect. Despite the important work that animal welfare inspectors do, we often face challenges and obstacles in our efforts to protect animals.

“Not only do we have to be able to work with animals, correctly, but we can face resistance from pet owners or encounter situations that are dangerous or difficult to manage. This job requires proper training and a specific skill set, which is often overlooked by so many but so needed for the community,” said Ramalata.

Ramalata emphasised that this World Stray Animal Day people should think about how they can support local animal shelters and welfare inspectors.

“Advocating for the rights of animals not only helps us create a world where animals are treated with the care, compassion and respect they deserve, but we also help create a better world for all living beings,” concluded Ramalata.