AS many families prepare for a season of rest and celebration, the Durban & Coast SPCA is preparing for one of its busiest periods of the year.

According to the organisation, more than 400 animals came through its doors between Christmas and New Year last year, and only 10 were reunited with their owners.

Brigid McCleary, Financial Planner at Designed Wealth, is urging the public to support the Durban & Coast SPCA and take responsible steps to protect animals over the festive period.

“The SPCA should not carry this burden alone. If we each do our small part, we can create a wave of kindness that transforms countless lives,” says McCleary.

“You don’t have to work in animal welfare to make a difference. Every act of care matters.”

The SPCA sees a rise in abandoned and neglected pets every December, along with animals rescued from unsafe environments.

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Their teams continue to feed, treat, and protect vulnerable animals throughout the holidays, but community support remains essential.

“Love doesn’t go on holiday,” says Tanya Fleischer, marketing manager at the Durban & Coast SPCA.

“Whether you are travelling, adopting, donating, or simply spreading awareness, you help give animals a chance at comfort and safety.”

How the community can help:

• Donate pet food or make a monetary contribution
• Microchip your pets and encourage others to do the same
• Ensure pets are looked after if you are travelling
• Adopt thoughtfully and responsibly
• If struggling, seek help rather than abandoning a pet

To assist the Durban & Coast SPCA, contact 031 579 6534/5 or visit their website to donate, volunteer, foster, or learn more about responsible pet care: www.spcadbn.org.za

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