Join JSPCA as they raise funds for a dog pool to help this summer

As hot days are approaching with summer just around the corner, the Johannesburg Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) is embarking on a mission to ensure that the four-legged residents of their kennels remain comfortable and refreshed during the impending sweltering summer.

The solution? A dog pool – a cool oasis that promises to be a source of relief, enjoyment and even skill-building for the SPCA’s canine inhabitants.

The Johannesburg SPCA is well aware of the searing temperatures that await and has been dedicated to enhancing the lives of its animals.

With kennels made of concrete, which can quickly turn into heat-absorbing ovens under a scorching sun, the organisation has consistently sought innovative ways to mitigate the discomfort caused by extreme weather conditions. In previous years, their efforts saw the installation of shade netting in the kennels, a move that helped lower the temperatures and make the environment more bearable for their furry charges.

However, in preparation for what promises to be yet another summer of relentless heat, the SPCA is taking their commitment to animal welfare a step further. They are raising funds to install a specially designed dog pool, tailored to offer a blend of refreshment and fun to the shelter dogs.

Unlike conventional swimming pools, these dog pools are designed with a shallow gradient that allows dogs to stand comfortably without the need to swim. Ranging from very shallow sections to slightly deeper areas, the pools resemble the gentle slopes of a beach, catering to dogs of all sizes and swimming abilities.

The planned location for this pool is the SPCA’s spacious dog run, where a designated area of 3 x 3m will soon transform into a cool respite for the dogs in their care.

This pool is poised to become a lifesaver, offering relief from the heat and significantly reducing the risk of heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke.

The benefits of introducing shelter dogs to water go beyond mere temperature control. Many dogs, when adopted, may encounter situations where water is unavoidable, whether it’s a bath or an encounter with a river or lake. By exposing these dogs to water from a young age and allowing them to associate it with positive experiences, the SPCA believes that they are contributing to the dogs’ overall well-being and adaptability, making their transition to forever homes smoother.

Moreover, the dog pool opens the door to creative possibilities. The SPCA envisions hosting ‘doggie pool days’ where volunteers can engage with the animals in a fun and interactive way.

Even senior dogs who might be dealing with aching joints and bones could benefit from the low-impact exercise that walking in water provides, helping them maintain mobility and comfort as they age.

By supporting their initiative to install a dog pool, not only are donors providing immediate relief to shelter dogs during the upcoming summer, but they’re also investing in the dogs’ future happiness and well-being.

To donate, you can use the following details:

Bank: FNB Southdale

Branch: 254 205

Account holder: JHB SPCA

Account number: 62362508396

Reference: Doggy pool

For more information, email pr@jhbspca.co.za or contact 011 681 3600.