NEWCASTLE KZN: Beware re-homing your pets through ‘free to good home’ Internet posts
Heather Gero of the Newcastle SPCA has cautioned residents against re-homing their animals through the Internet.
According to Heather Gero of the Newcastle SPCA, the organisation has noted the Internet has ‘become an avenue for people to advertise free to good home pets’ when they move to a smaller property or emigrate.
“This certainly is an easy way to home animals, but we caution that not everyone has your animal’s best interest at heart,” warned Gero, who added that while you may have good intentions, this may not always hold positive results for your family pet.
Gero said that some breeders and security companies have recognised these openings and are quick to acquire ‘suitable’ animals for their trade in this manner.
“Foreign nationals are also seizing these ‘free to good homes’ opportunities, as well as sourcing especially large breed dogs from Internet advertisements, and taking them across South African borders into neighbouring countries.”
Often, she said, the fate of these animals is unknown: “Many are used as ‘bait’ dogs for dog fighting.”
Gero mentioned that dog fighting is an extreme form of abuse as the ‘bait’ dog’s mouth is taped shut and he/she is put into a space where the fighting dog attacks the defenseless opponent.
“Please think very carefully before advertising in this manner. Your problem may be solved when the animal is collected, but the animal’s problems may just be starting…”
For more information and assistance, Gero has advised pet-owners to contact the Newcastle SPCA on 034 318 2346 or visit the organisation on Samson Drive in Barry Hertzog Park.
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