ESTCOURT: Animal shelter has a ‘challenging’ 2020

Since becoming a community-based animal welfare centre in 2015, the Estcourt Animal Shelter has been a safe haven for hundreds of abused, neglected, surrendered or stray animals.

Solely dependent on funds from the committee, fund-raising and the community, the shelter has seen many triumphs and tribulations.

ALSO READ: Stepping in to save the Estcourt Animal Shelter

Last Friday, the annual general meeting was held at the Estcourt Golf Club at 5.30pm.

Committee members and volunteers attended to hear feedback from the past year.

The shelter’s public officer, Candice Hunter-Smith, welcomed everyone and read the report from the chairman, Dr Delon Alwar, who was unable to attend due to work commitments.

In his report, Dr Alwar said that 2020 had been a challenging year, which was especially tough during the lockdown period.

He noted that even though the shelter was providing a good service, more support from the community was needed in order for the shelter to thrive.

“We need to encourage more people to visit the shelter to understand what it takes to run a place like this. The future of the shelter lies with the community,” read the report.

Kennel manager Nelson Mabaso gave an overview of the number of cats and dogs that have passed through their doors.
Since January 2020, the shelter has received 14 stray dogs and 28 stray cats. 207 dogs and 77 cats were surrendered and two dogs were impounded. 52 dogs and 10 cats were adopted during the year, as well as five dogs claimed by their owners from the shelter.

A total of 125 dogs and 70 cats had to be euthanized, with 15 dogs and nine cats dying from illnesses while at the shelter.

SEE: Adopt a ‘fur-ever’ friend from the Estcourt Animal Shelter

“We currently have 35 dogs, 14 puppies, 11 cats and three kittens,” said Mr Mabaso.

According to the financial reports, treasurer Graham Moor said the shelter was making a small surplus, but relies mainly on donations.

“Our main costs are salaries and wages, vet bills and municipal accounts. We do need ongoing support,” said Mr Moor.

During the election of the office bearers, it was announced that Leigh Fortmann will take over the reins as chairperson, while Dr Alwar will remain on the committee. It was with sadness that the committee learnt that David and Brenda McFie, who started the Estcourt Animal Shelter, would be stepping down from their roles as office bearers and will be available in an advisory role.

Committee members thanked the dedicated couple for their support over the years; with chairperson Mrs Fortmann saying it was ‘big boots to fill’.

Mrs McFie said they were confident that the shelter was ‘in good hands’.

Before the AGM wrapped up, ideas for fund-raising, adoptions and maintenance were discussed.

One of the priorities was raising funds to repair the fencing for the dog run. Other matters that were discussed included out-of-town adoptions, engagements with the local municipality and fund-raising ideas.

The Estcourt Animal Shelter sends its gratitude to Belinda Espag and the Polar Bear Swim committee for the donations of food and cash, as well as all the locals, businesses and volunteers who have lent a hand in supporting the shelter committee and animals.

READ: Polar Bear swimmers keep up the giving

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