The Germiston SPCA had an extremely busy festive period.
Overall, during December 2013, a total of 343 animals were admitted to the SPCA.
This constitutes a 40 per cent increase over the normal, average month.
SPCA staff were very busy rescuing animals and picking up strays and abandoned dogs and cats.
“Holiday time is always a tough time for us, as many dogs and cats are left unattended or just abandoned,” said Laurence Kingston, manager of the Germiston SPCA.
Between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day alone a total of 45 animals (20 cats and 25 dogs) were admitted to the kennels.
Fireworks over the festive period were extremely bad and traumatic for animals.
“There seemed to be far more fireworks this past period, compared to the previous year, and more dogs and cats were reported lost due to the fireworks than last year,” Kingston said.
“Fortunately, during this time, we received no badly injured animals or attended to any cruelty cases.
“In my opinion, banning fireworks is the only way to go.”
Many of the dogs and cats collected by the society over the Christmas and New Year period were as a direct result of fireworks.
Currently, the SPCA is in need of tinned dog and cat food, especially tinned cat food.
Due to the increase in SPCA business activity, especially on the inspectorate side, the SPCA is also in need of three steel filing cabinets, even second-hand ones in good condition, would be appreciated.
Kingston advised those who have lost their pets to firstly contact their local SPCA and all the vets in their area.
Pet owners can send the SPCA and vets photos and a full description and details of their lost pets, which will help to identify found animals quickly.
He also suggested putting photos of your lost pet on Facebook and pet finder sites, as well as putting up posters in the neighbourhood.
“Most important, microchipping your pet is a safe and effective method of ensuring that your dog/cat can be easily identified,” he said.
To donate to the Germiston SPCA, or to find out if your lost pet is there, call 011 825-5033, or visit the kennels in Junction Road, Driehoek.
