LETTER: Sterilisation policy doesn’t make sense to me

Mariska Olivier, Impala Park, writes:

I visited the Benoni SPCA on May 29 and fell in love with Roxy, a Pekingese.
I couldn’t apply for her there and then because I had to include my husband in the decision, to which he agreed and said it would be good for both dogs to have a friend.
One of our dogs passed away in December at the age of 13 and we can see our remaining dog gets lonely.
I went back to fill out an application and asked what documentation they require from me, to which the lady asked if we already have pets.

I said one dog, then she asked if he was sterilised and I said no, not thinking it would be a problem because the dog I wanted to adopt would already be sterilised.
Roxy being sterilised addressed my own concerns of any additional puppies which I don’t want. I was then informed that I can not adopt Roxy unless our current dog is sterilised as well.
I then phoned the SPCA head office because Martine, the manager at Benoni SPCA, wasn’t available at the time.

Janet couldn’t explain why the policy is in place and said the SPCA has the authority to make their own decisions on policies and that it’s not a national policy.
Eventually, I was able to speak to Martine after staff filled her in on the details and she too could not explain the reason behind their policy and just said “it is policy”.
Martine was kind of baffled about why Janet would say it’s not a national policy, because according to her it is indeed a national policy.
I then phoned back to head office requesting to speak to Janet’s manager, Tersia. Only then did Tersia explain the reason for the policy is to “stop breeding of domesticated animals”.

But like I said in my previous message the policy is contradictive and has the opposite effect.
They want to stop breeding of domesticated animals, but I am now forced to support a breeder, while Roxy (who would have been sterilised) now remains without a home and could be put down if she doesn’t find a home.
They want to force me to sterilise my existing pet, when it’s not necessary to do so.

Editor’s note: Benoni SPCA responded: Firstly, we would like to express our sincere regret that the reader’s experience left them feeling disappointed and confused. We understand how emotionally significant the decision to adopt a pet is, especially after the loss of a beloved companion, and we commend their willingness to provide a loving home to a rescue dog like Roxy. Regarding the sterilisation policy: the requirement that all existing pets in a household be sterilised prior to adopting from the Benoni SPCA is not a rule enforced by the NSPCA. Rather, it is an internal policy implemented by the Ekurhuleni Region in 2023 to ensure consistency across all member societies in the region.

This policy is not intended as a judgment of any individual pet owner. It is a preventative measure aimed at addressing the severe overpopulation crisis facing companion animals in South Africa. Regardless of an adopter’s intentions, unsterilised pets may inadvertently contribute to this issue. By requiring sterilisation of all pets in the household, we strive to support responsible pet ownership and reduce the number of unwanted animals entering SPCAs. While we understand that Roxy will be sterilised, our policy considers the broader context, when unsterilised animals are present in the home, there remains a risk of future breeding (intentional or accidental), especially with the introduction of a new pet.

We also acknowledge the confusion caused by the conflicting information received from various representatives. We regret that this added further frustration to what was already an emotional situation. While each SPCA operates autonomously and has the authority to implement its own internal policies, the NSPCA provides national guidance and ensures compliance with the SPCA Act.

In this case, the regional policy aligns with our shared goal of advancing animal welfare. We deeply sympathise with the reader’s situation and appreciate the compassion they have shown toward Roxy. It is never our goal to turn away kind and willing adopters, but we must also uphold policies designed to protect the broader welfare of animals in our care and in the community.

Also Read: These Benoni SPCA animals are looking for homes

Also Read: Benoni SPCA needs pet food and blankets urgently