Owners reunited with beloved pets

SIX animals in the Highway area died from firework related incidents but more than 20 animals were reunited with their families due to the work done by the Kloof and Highway SPCA.

“The Kloof and Highway SPCA is shocked with the irresponsible use of fireworks in our community during the New Year’s celebrations,” said Lisa Gadd, the Outreach Officer a the Kloof and Highway SPCA.

In the first incident, an Inspector was called out in the early hours of the morning, after a dog tried to retrieve a lit firework that then exploded in the dog’s mouth. The dog was euthanised immediately. The owners will be charged criminally in terms of the Animals Protection Act.

“Six of these animals died from various injuries while trying to flee the terror of fireworks. One dog was admitted to an emergency veterinary hospital and was euthanised immediately as she was hit by a car. As always our inspectors were on duty throughout the night and numerous emergencies were attended to until the early hours of the morning,” said Gadd.

“Our kennels are overflowing. The festive season and New Year celebrations have hit our SPCA hard. Fifty-three stray animals have come through our doors since Thursday evening – only seven of which were microchipped and re-united with their families immediately,” said Lisa Gadd,

A further 21 of these animals have been claimed by their families. Gadd also urged pet owners to continue to remain vigilant over the next few days as remaining fireworks may be set off sporadically.

Stray and lost animals can be taken to the SPCA Standby kennels 24-hours a day at 29 Village Road, Kloof. For injured animals or emergencies contact 031 764 1212/3 during office hours or 073 335 9322 after hours. “If you are missing a pet, please come in personally to the SPCA to look for your animal and to make an official lost report,” said Gadd.

The SPCA is open from Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm, on Saturday from 8am to 12pm and the last Sunday of every month between 9am and 12pm.