Take care of animals this festive season

The SPCA movement asks the public to be its eyes and ears in the approach to and during the festive season.

If you encounter any situation involving an animal that concerns you report it quickly and directly.

“There is a trend for people to send an email or to take a photograph and place it on Facebook,” said NSPCA PRO Christine Kuch.

“This delays response.

“Please carry the number of your local SPCA on your cellphone and contact them immediately with as much information as possible.

“Even if this is not the ‘correct’ SPCA, they can forward details quickly.”

An appeal is made to be mindful of the welfare of all animals and not to fear coming forward with information.

“Pets – especially exotic animals – are unsuitable as surprise gifts.

“Please do not go this route.

“For full details of the rationale, local SPCAs or the NSPCA may be contacted,” Kuch said.

As with so many issues, animal welfare starts at home.

Ensuring that your own animals have been vaccinated up to date, including against rabies, is the first step.

Make sure that each animal has identification — microchip identification is the best.

“Whether you are going away or staying at home, make plans and have back-up plans in case of accident, illness or any other emergency that may arise.

“Organise a caring person to be on standby to assist with animals if needs be.

“The contact details of your veterinarian and the local SPCA need to be with him or her,” Kuch said.

Be caring and cautious with regard to festivities.

Ensure that pets cannot reach food or treats, especially chocolate, which can be toxic to dogs.

Party items or decorations can be mistaken for toys and accidents could occur.

The best advice is to give animals either a room of their own during festivities or to make sure that they have a space to hide away from the hubbub.

It is not only fireworks that terrify pets.

So-called “poppers” can also startle them and bursting balloons can cause panic.

“Be aware, show you care and be mindful of animals at all times,” said Kuch.

“A reminder that the SPCA is an animal welfare organisation, not a veterinary service.

“If your animal needs veterinary treatment, a vaccination, etc., then please contact your private veterinarian.

“If you wish to report an animal being cruelly treated, neglected, abused or abandoned, contact your local SPCA.”

Details of all SPCAs can be found on www.nspca.co.za.

The Germiston SPCA can be contacted on 011 825-5033.