SPCA and north Durban animal welfare organisation need your help

ANIMAL rescue organisations worked flat out last week, during the floods, as numerous animals were left displaced, trapped in storm water drains and the like.

Tanya Fleischer, marketing manager for Durban & Coast SPCA said inspectors were on call 24/7 to assist with any animal rescues, apart from the building being flooded itself.

“Our SPCA premises was flooded during the early hours of Tuesday morning. Inspectors and kennel staff had to rescue dogs from our kennels. Animals were moved from flooded kennels to safe dry kennels. Thanks to these brave staff members, no animals were harmed,” she said.

READ ALSO: Greenwood Park Primary School welcomes mobile library donation

Fleischer was unable to provide figures on exactly how many animals were rescued as the information had not been captured as electricity outages caused a backlog.

She said supporters of the organisation can assist by sponsoring various items which the SPCA is currently in need of.

“As our water supply is intermittent we do need donations of bottled water. We also need fleecy pet blankets and pet food,” she said.
Items can be dropped off at the SPCA in Springfield Park, 2 Willowfield Crescent or a donation can be made online at www.spcadbn.org.za

“In terms of future disasters, it’s important to take note of weather warnings issued whether it be for extreme rain or extreme heat and look after your pet accordingly. Always make sure they have shelter. Bring them indoors in extreme conditions and provide them with a blanket, food, clean drinking water,” added Fleischer.

For more information contact the SPCA on 031 579 6546.

Neeri Naidoo, founder of Phoenix Animal Treatment and Care (PACT) said their shared premises in Hazelmere was flooded and kennels were damaged.

“There were over 100 dogs sharing two rooms at one stage. Due to the generosity of the public, we managed to get a lot of the damaged kennels sorted out,” said Naidoo.

She said the organisation’s food supplies, towels and blankets were all damaged so they have now started collecting from scratch.

“We have been rescuing dogs and cats since last Tuesday. There were still dogs running around with chains still attached to them. Cats and kittens were stuck in storm water drains. It was devastating,” she said.

A dog was trapped for several hours, who was trapped under the rubble after a house collapsed on her.

“She was rescued and taken to Ashburne Vet where she received treatment, however she succumbed to hypothermia,” she said.

“We also managed to rescue a sat trapped in storm water drain for three days or probably longer. The sad things is that hundreds of animals who won’t be saved because we won’t hear of them. It’s devastating to say the least,” added Naidoo.