As the year draws to a close and families unite for the holiday season, the Sandton SPCA reflects on a challenging but grateful year.
When the pandemic and lockdown hit earlier this year, the SPCA was forced to adjust its practices and alter its approach to fundraising.
“We had to adjust our thinking on how to run fundraising campaigns as well as how to structure our adoption and inspectorate processes during a time when people were not allowed to travel freely.
“Ensuring the health and safety of the animals in our care, visitors to our SPCA as well as the health and safety of our staff was a priority,” said the SPCA’s Wilna Lamb.
While fundraising took a drastic knock during the lockdown, the SPCA is grateful for the amazing support from the public in terms of donations and taking part in our online activities.
“One example amongst many was a fundraiser arranged by A Plus Communications for Women’s Month which raised over R60 000,” added Lamb.
Two of the SPCA’s major fundraising activities are continuing this year – the calendar project and the annual gift wrapping service at Sandton City.
The SPCA also expanded its inspectorate department with a total of seven trained inspectors on hand and improved its veterinary clinic.
According to Lamb, the improvements made to the clinic will allow the vet to continue and grow its weekly sterilisation outreach programme in areas such as Bertams and Alexandra.
“We hope that by consistently providing this service and educating the owners, in time this initiative will reduce the burden of abandoned, unwanted and stray animals being brought to the SPCA.
“We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to each and every one who assisted us.
“We wish all our members and supporters a joyous and safe festive season. If you are travelling, please take care and remember to please ensure that your pets are cared for during this holiday period.”
Members of the community who would like to purchase a calendar or volunteer with the wrapping programme can contact the Sandton SPCA on 011 444 7730.
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