With the recent increase in animal abuse and dog poisoning in and around Secunda, it is important to take the necessary steps to ensure the safety of your pets. More so, we should all be alert and aware of our animals’ well-being.
The local SPCA is concerned about the safety of animals and urged residents to report animal abuse.
“People must be our eyes and ears.”
“There is a trend for people to send an e-mail or to take a photograph and place it on Facebook,” explained Ms Christine Kuch, NSPCA PRO.
She said these posts and emails delay response and that people must contact the SPCA for immediate response.
An appeal is made to be mindful of the welfare of all animals and not to fear coming forward with information.
Pets, especially exotic animals, are unsuitable as surprise gifts.
How to take care of your pet:
* As with so many issues, animal welfare begins at home, ensuring that your own animals have been vaccinated up to date, including against rabies.
* Make sure that each animal has identification for when they get lost.
* Whether you are going away or staying at home, make plans and have back-up plans in case of an accident, illness or any other emergency that may arise.
* Organise a caring person to be on standby to assist with animals if need be and leave any contact details with them.
Be caring and cautious with regard to festivities.
* Ensure that pets cannot reach food or treats, especially chocolate which can be toxic to dogs.
* Party items or decorations can be mistaken for toys and accidents could occur. The best advice is to give animals either a room of their own during festivities or make sure that they have a space to hide away from the hubbub.
It is not only fireworks that terrify pets. So-called “poppers” can also startle them and bursting balloons can cause panic.
Be aware, show you care and be mindful of animals at all times.
A reminder that the SPCA movement is an animal welfare organisation not a veterinary service.
If your animal needs veterinary treatment, vaccination etc, then please contact your private veterinarian.
If you wish to report an animal being cruelly treated, neglected, abused or abandoned, contact the Bethal SPCA at 084 852 0889.
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