The Estcourt and District SPCA committee has literally rolled up their sleeves and got stuck into improving the organisation. Since they were voted in last year, a noticeable improvement can be seen at the kennels. The committee consists of Dave Mc Fie (chairman), Jeanine Raciti (vice chairperson), Christine Tratschler (secretary), Graham Moor (treasurer), Estelle Goosen and Michelle Geldenhuys.
Secretary Mrs Tratschler explained that renovations at the kennels have been a priority currently with re-fencing, re-grassing, revamping of current kennels and the opening of a new cattery. Thanks to generous donations from locals, these projects have been successful and have given the SPCA new look.Mrs Tratschler substantiates: “We have re-fenced the top two kennels and re-used that fence and donated fencing. We have also redone the fencing on the front cattery; money was donated to purchase the mesh fence.
We have done up two dog runs, which were not in use so now the dogs can enjoy playing there. A new cat run has also been opened and the toys were made by Mrs Raciti.” The SPCA committee is thankful to Angelo Raciti and Jacque van der Merwe who did a large amount of the fencing.
To make the premises visually appealing to visitors, the committee has also beautified the entrance with pebbles and improved and maintain the gardens. The committee and staff are also grateful that the office is electrified, thanks to Eric Bure. “Now we have a place to meet and talk and the donated food is stored in the freezers. Thank you to PicknPay and Spar for their regular food donations and to Candice Hunter Smith for her donation of cat food,” said Mrs Tratschler who describes the renovations at the SPCA a ‘work in progress.’
Donations from the tins at supermarkets yielded about R5 000 during the festive season and Mrs Tratschler thanks everyone who supports this fundraising initiative. She also encourages residents to volunteer regular donations every month, this is will ensure the smooth running of the SPCA day-to-day. “Graham Moor is our treasurer and the books are running smoothly, so people are welcome to have a look and see what the donations are used for,” said Mrs Tratschler.
The new committee’s goals for 2015 are to create awareness about the SPCA and the animals that are up for adoption.
“We want to open a ‘cuddle pen’ where we invite people and they can come with their children and sit and cuddle with the animals, which gives them human comfort. “We also want to host a fundraiser twice a year and have a kitten or pup at the event so people can see what’s at the SPCA,” she explained.
She says one of the biggest challenges is people badmouthing the SPCA without knowing the facts. “The concept that the SPCA doesn’t do much is untrue. “Anyone is welcome to inspect our files and see what work is being done. The committee meets regularly and works with the National SPCA,” said Mrs Tratschler. On behalf of the committee she thanks every business and individual that has assisted the SPCA.
