The Midrand SPCA had to say a tearful goodbye to an abused animal and has appealed to the public to assist with their sterilisation programme.
General manager Pam Pretorius said, “Inspector Theo Mokgatle responded to a call for a stray dog that had apparently been living in some bushes for some time, living off scraps that could be found in the dustbins close by.
“Inspector Mokgatle was horrified at what he found. Annie [the dog] had severe burn marks covering the entire one side of her body with several other cuts and injuries in her neck and legs. We suspect that she may have gotten into some trouble while scavenging for food and someone decided to either burn her or throw a hot substance over her.”
The SPCA found a collar on Annie which means that she did, at some point, have an owner. The Midrand SPCA added that they have been seeing more cases of animals roaming the streets and bushes.
Pretorius said, “These animals are at times plagued with diseases, suffering from injuries sustained and dying of starvation as they try to fend for themselves. “Our society needs to urgently embark on another massive outreach in the month of February so that we can comb the streets for stray or abandoned animals.”
She added that they will also stop at homes, check on the welfare of animals and take in animals that can no longer be cared for and prevent further breeding by doing sterilisations. “This type of drive does come at a cost though. We have started doing fixtures at our kennels to accommodate the expected influx of animals.”
Pretorious said that this process has cost the Midrand SPCA in excess of R15 000, which includes their time, fuel, food, and various treatments. “The mammoth task cannot be undertaken without assistance from the public. The Midrand SPCA is calling on any financial assistance from the public.
“Please consider a donation in memory of poor Annie so that we can reach more animals in need this month. Through your help, we can change the fate of all the Annies out there during this month of love and show them the kindness and love that Annie never knew.”
Details: Midrand SPCA 011 265 9935.
