THEIR 2021/22 statistics revealed that 1 594 cats were admitted, be that stray or surrendered, with five claimed and 28 adopted and, they have had 3 091 dogs admitted, 2 237 of which were surrendered, with only 155 claimed and 169 adopted.
“If you think it’s awful to read these statistics, just imagine the toll is takes on our staff. It’s hard to even comprehend the number of pets surrendered over the last year. There are simply not enough kennels. Looking at the number of adopted and claimed pets, I’m sure you can do the heartbreaking math,” said Toti SPCA manager, Tracey Girling.
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The sad reality is that many of these pets were not surrendered because the owner no longer wanted them, instead there are other contributing factors to the influx of animals at Toti SPCA.
One of these is negligence, where owners do not sterilise their animals, and continue to breed them. Others are forced to hand their animals over when they move overseas and cannot afford to bring them along or move to places that are not pet friendly.
The economy also plays a role, as not everyone can afford to sterilise their pet or obtain housing that can accommodate them. A pet is also another mouth to feed and potentially another medical bill to pay.
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With the volume of animals being brought through their doors, not enough resources to cater for them, outbreak of rabies and not enough people adopting, the SPCA is left with no choice but to euthanise. Their statistics revealed that 1 460 cats and 2 573 dogs were euthanised, some of which were by owner request.
Girling asked people to think about the alternatives, before saying unkind things about the SPCA. “Without us taking in these animals, where would they go? They would inevitably end up on the streets, destined for a life of suffering, and a painful death,” she said.
She added that if you follow SPCA Amanzimtoti, you would know they do everything possible to find homes for the pets in their care. But, times are tough, adoption rates have dropped and there are still people supporting breeders.
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“While people continue to allow their pets to breed, and continue supporting breeders, we are doing the soul destroying job that no one else wants to do. We do this to protect these precious lives from suffering. So please, before you judge, or form a negative opinion about our SPCA, consider what we go through on a daily basis,” said Girling.
The organisation said they never stop fighting for the animals. Whether it be fighting for justice in court, educating the public, rehabilitating the sick and injured, searching for homes, or carrying out the final act of kindness through euthanasia.
She concluded by saying, “If you want to help improve these numbers, please spread awareness. We have the most incredible pets up for adoption. Choose to adopt, and encourage family and friends to sterilise their pets.”
For more information, contact the Toti SPCA on 031 904 2424. Alternatively, make a donation at the following banking details: Amanzimtoti SPCA, FNB Galleria, branch code: 220127, account number: 62807184552, reference: donation.
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