The Durban and Coast SPCA’s communications spokeswoman Caroline Smith told The Ridge Online that a total of 72 dogs were brought to the SPCA premises in Springfield between Friday and Monday – most of them from north of Durban.
“The dogs came from all over the greater Durban area but the worst were Durban North, Umhlanga, Phoenix and Verulam,” said Smith. “Right now our adoption programme is under intense strain and the last thing we need is another 44 dogs that need homes.”
Unusually, she said, no cats had been delivered to the SPCA after the Diwali and Guy Fawkes celebrations. “This is a bit unusual, normally we get a few, but cats are possibly a little more streetwise.”
Smith said that legally there was a seven-day waiting period in which the owners could come and collect their pets. Thereafter they could be “homed”, where possible.
“We’re appealing for people to collect their pets, for other folk to consider adopting once that week is up and of course – as always – we need more resources because now we have another 44 mouths to feed.”
Chris Matheson, General Manager of the Durban and Coast SPCA commented: “Any amount you’re kind enough to donate today will help us to keep taking in pets that have fled their homes in fear – usually without any identification – and care for them until, hopefully, their owners find them in our kennels.
“Your generosity will support the prevention of harm, because we also strive to educate communities about the dangers of fireworks and their cruel effects on innocent animals – including birds and wildlife.”
Can you help? Contact info: 031 579 6525
*Please note, the adoption of a dog requires a great deal of commitment both in terms of time and resources, please make sure you are able to stay the course if you plan to help rescue one of these unfortunate animals.
4 Comments
Breaks my heart…
Hi there. Why can’t we find a away to stop this Diwali fireworks, as it should only be lights.
Every year I have nightmares for a month about what people do to animals. There has to be a way to stop this.
Animal life is just as important as human life.
Hi
I wish I could really express my hate for fireworks…surely there must be a way to ban them. Diwali has nothing to do with fireworks…and when these inconsiderate people have a few drinks, their reckless behaviour becomes a war between animal lovers and Diwali. People forget about animals, the aged, babies, and the people who have to go to work the next day.
Please get these people to stop…
Diwali hater..
If you are SERIOUS about banning the general use of fireworks go to
http://hopeful.ws/arf/