SPCA picks up the pieces after burglary
"Once we are faced with challenges such as theft or robbery, it is a low blow for our society..."
The Newcastle SPCA faces even more challenges, as it grapples with the after-effects of yet another burglary. This latest incident has also put the animals under its care at risk.
“We are a nonprofit organisation. Once we are faced with challenges such as theft or robbery, it is a low blow for our society and true devastation,” said the SPCA’s Heather Gero.
With stolen items having an estimated value of between R8Â 000 to R 10Â 000, the SPCA has been left at a financial loss.
“We had taken the necessary precautions to ensure no further break-ins occurred at our property, but unfortunately our efforts did not prevail. The break-in occurred… when the facility was quiet. It was only on Monday morning when one of our groundskeepers came across the storeroom and realised it had been tampered with. The padlock had been broken off,” said SPCA Inspector, Suveshin Naidoo.
The ransacked room left behind told the story for the SPCA Staff.
“In the store room, we stored items which were going to be put up for sale to ensure profits for our organisation through our charity shop. A mess was left behind as we assume the culprits had scrambled to find anything of value.”
Gero added: “We are no stranger to these issues. In the past , the SPCA experienced theft of items such as gardening equipment, transportation cages for the animals as well as food. These individuals went as far as stealing a car battery from one of our vehicles. What could possibly happen next?”
Regarding the welfare of the animals at the SPCA, staff reassured the community they would be cared for.
“The animals do not ask to be put in the facility or a cage and regardless of the situations we face, our team will ensure the best possible outcome for the animals. They will not be treated to a second grade life,” said Naidoo. “They will not be treated to a second grade life.”
“As an organisation, it is our sole purpose to prevent animal cruelty in every possible way. We are active on social media to secure as many adoptions as possible can take place. We want to ensure every animal which comes through our doors has a fighting chance and can find their forever home,” he concluded.
Anyone who can contribute in any way to the Newcastle SPCA can deliver donations to the facility on Samson Avenue, Barry Hertzog Park.
ALSO READ:Â All paws up at Newcastle SPCA AGM
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