JOHANNESBURG – For financial reasons, the Johannesburg SPCA will close its Krugersdorp branch on March 31. Until that date, the branch will remain fully operational.
This follows due consideration and evaluation of sustainable alternatives. It is simply not viable to operate a branch in Krugersdorp when there are large and fully operational facilities at the Johannesburg SPCA in the suburb of Reuven.
Since 2009, the Johannesburg SPCA took full responsibility for the facility in Krugersdorp, financially as well as operationally. This situation could not continue indefinitely especially as the centralisation of operations was a viable and obvious solution.
The Johannesburg SPCA will continue to serve the Krugersdorp area with regard to inspections, investigation of allegations of cruelty, neglect or abuse: – plus the collection of stray or unwanted animals which will be taken to the Johannesburg SPCA.
As an additional measure to ensure that no animal suffers as a result of this restructuring, the Johannesburg SPCA commits to arranging for Inspectors to visit what will then be the premises of the former Krugersdorp branch to ensure that no animals have been left there.
A notice relating to the closure of the branch will be placed outside the premises/building in Krugersdorp. Residents of informal settlements in the area will be notified by word of mouth by Inspectors from the Johannesburg SPCA, who will also advise regarding the collection of animals. It is envisaged that initially this will involve two weekly visits.
An alternative for people wishing to surrender animals to the SPCA would be the neighbouring SPCAs in Randburg and Roodepoort. There are also other animal welfare organisations in the area who take in unwanted animals.
The closure of the premises in Krugersdorp was not a quick or easy decision. It was made with a long-term view, taking into account the current and projected economic situation. The priority is ensuring the best provision for the care of animals.
SPCAs are community-driven organisations. Over and above their dependence on local residents for financial support (as no government funding is received), each SPCA relies on its community for involvement to enable sustainability.
Sadly, this has not been the case in the Krugersdorp area. This has been the situation for a considerable period of time.
The Johannesburg SPCA can be reached on 011 681 3600.
