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Parys SPCA at wits end with vehicle dilemma

They need your urgent assistance and support.

The Parys SPCA currently finds itself in a very dire situation. their only vehicle broke down, and left them without any vehicle to attend to abused, neglected, unwanted, stray, sick and injured animals, or investigate any cruelty complaints. A mechanically sound vehicle is imperative to ensure that no animal is left suffering for longer than what they already are.

After assessment, the mechanics indicated that the vehicle’s engine needs repairing, which will take time and will be costly.
The Parys SPCA covers a large area and rely on the generosity and support of our community to continue assisting abused, neglected, unwanted, stray, sick and injured animals.

They rely solely on donations and receive no governmental funding.
Therefor Parys SPCA appeal to the community and their supporters to hear their cries. Everyone can make a difference in the lives of countless animals in our community.

The Parys SPCA urgently needs to raise R4,000 to attend to the vehicle repairs.

How can YOU make a difference?
* By lending a urgent helping hand with loaning the SPCA a vehicle to assist animals in
need while we wait for our vehicle to be repaired;

* By donating to the Parys SPCA, to cover the costs of repairing our only vehicle as soon

They need your urgent assistance and support. Your generosity can put wind beneath their wings and ensure that Parys SPCA can continue fulfilling our mandate of combatting animal cruelty in your community.

Their banking details are:
Parys SPCA
Standard Bank
Cheque Account
Account number: 040 947 882
You are also welcome to contact Madelyn Venter, inspector at Parys SPCA on 072 8944 061 or (056) 811 3671.

Fast facts about your local SPCA

SPCA stands for the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Inspectors focus on cases where the Animal Protection Act is being contravened, as their mandate is to prevent cruelty.

It is dependent on public funding and donations. The SPCA receives no government funding.

The job of an SPCA inspector is to ensure all animals are treated with kindness. They make sure that no animal is neglected or abused.

SPCA inspectors are highly trained people who can manage both abused animals and cruel and difficult people.
Their job can be emotionally challenging, but extremely rewarding at the same time. They need to be emotionally strong and confident.

What does an SPCA inspector do?
•Inspects circuses, livestock sales yards, farms, pet shops, private homes etc.,
•Investigates animal cruelty or abuse
•Rescues animals when needed
•Lays criminal charges against those committing animal abuse or neglect,
•Educates members of the public about correct animal care
•Sensitises children to compassion for animals.

What the SPCA is not responsible for:
* Complaints regarding animals causing a nuisance or disturbance of peace. Those complaints are the responsibility of the local municipality and the police, where you can lodge a formal complaint regarding barking dogs etc.
* The removal of dead animals. Contact your local municipality in this matter.
* Selling of animals. It is not illegal to trade with domestic animals, and the SPCA, therefore, has no jurisdiction to intervene unless there are welfare concerns.

Why is there sometimes a delay in response time?
Parys SPCA is responsible for the Heilbron, Koppies, Parys, Vredefort and Lindequesdrift areas, adding up to about 3,000 km they have to travel monthly to attend to complaints
They also have to follow up on complaints. A lot of time (and costs) goes into veterinary visits as Parys SPCA does not have its own vet but has to use private vets. The closest state vet is in Heilbron, and it is impractical to take all injured animals there.

Donations help a lot, but the SPCA also needs money for its day-to-day running costs

Fuel, water and electricity, vet bills, stationery, salaries, pet food and maintenance must be paid for. Be assured that the NSPCA audits each SPCA branch, ensuring it can account for each donation it receives. The SPCA committee also keeps a watchful eye on the local SPCA’s finances.

How can you help the SPCA?
If you find a lost animal in the street, bring the animal to the SPCA premises instead of phoning the SPCA for help, or keep the animal in your yard till the SPCA can attend to your call. Support your local SPCA in any way you can, and tell people about the valuable work the SPCA does instead of spreading unverified information

Why do you have to pay to adopt an animal from the SPCA?
Remember that in line with the SPCA policy, it strives to prevent animal cruelty and unwanted animals. Therefore, dogs and cats adopted from the SPCA must be sterilised.  The fee is much cheaper than if you should have to take your animal to the vet for sterilisation, as the SPCA has a good relationship with veterinarians willing to help the SPCA. Besides sterilisation, the cost includes deworming, tick and flea treatment, vaccination, taking the animal to the vet, and a home visit to ensure that your new friend can adapt and be safe at your home.

 

Liezl Scheepers

Liezl Scheepers is editor of the Parys Gazette, a local community newspaper distributed in the towns of Parys, Vredefort and Viljoenskroon. As an experienced community journalist in all fields for the past 30 years, she has a passion for her community, and has been actively involved in several community outreach projects as part of Parys Gazette's team.

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