It’s a dog’s life for pets over the festive season
Shelter remains full of strays, neglected and sick animals despite end to holidays
THE Animal Welfare Society of SA, which has experienced a massive influx of owned, stray, abandoned, neglected as well as sick and injured animals over the festive period, says although some owners have collected their pets, its kennels remain full.
During December it spent a considerable R284 000 on medication alone.
“Most of the stray animals admitted over the holiday period are still with us.
“The law prescribes that all stray companion animals must be kept for a minimum of 10 days unless they are severely injured, too sick or too diseased,” said spokesperson Allan Perrins.
The society said over the December period it had sterilised 243 cats and dogs, vaccinated 621 dogs and 185 cats, admitted 375 animals into their hospital and conducted 1 947 consultations.
The inspectorate was equally busy and attended to 106 reports of animal cruelty.
“No one stepped forward to claim any stray cats and we have been unable to trace their owners. All are up for adoption.
“We currently have 20 cats and 53 dogs up for adoption.
“We are all exhausted but very proud of the fact that we have been able to come to the aid of so many animals over the holiday period thanks to a dedicated team and the support and generosity of our donors and sponsors,” Perrins said.
He said two dogs rescued from Matjiesfontein, Rex and Rover, are still undergoing treatment in hospital.
No one stepped forward to claim any stray cats. All are up for adoption