The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in Vereeniging and Vanderbiljpark has expressed its sincere gratitude to the support it received from various organizations and individuals, following the urgent appeal it made last week in attending to the animals affected by the devastating weather in Refengkgotso.
Though the support the organization said its team helped install shade netting to create windbreaks and protect the surviving animals from the bitterly cold wind. At the same time, livestock owners began cleaning up and erecting or repairing shelters where structures had been destroyed, or where no shelter had previously been available.
“Your generosity allowed us to bring urgently needed relief to animals during an extremely difficult time. We are deeply grateful to everyone who answered our call for help. While the support was tremendous, our appeal also received many negative comments. When a natural disaster strikes, it is not always possible to predict its severity or the full extent of the damage it will cause. Many animals did have access to shelter, but those structures were damaged or completely destroyed by the extreme winds” the organization stated.
“We acknowledge that some animals did not have access to adequate shelter. Those cases are being investigated, and where contraventions are identified, the responsible owners will be dealt with in accordance with the law. Our inspectors remain committed to protecting the welfare of every animal. If you see an animal in distress, please report it to our office as soon as possible at 016 422 1505.” SPCA.
