WHAT is celebrated as the festive season for many is often the most difficult time for the Kloof and Highway SPCA staff and volunteers.

During this period, said the SPCA’s Brigitte Ferguson, many animals are brought into the society’s care for various reasons, including families facing financial difficulties, pets being seen as an inconvenience during holidays, fireworks, abandonment, safe keeping, loss of interest, and cases of injured or abused pets.

“We ask our community and fellow pet owners to please be responsible this festive season. Make all the necessary arrangements for your pets and support the Kloof and Highway SPCA as much as possible. Everyone can do something to make a difference and help those in need,” said Ferguson, who shared tips for responsible care of pets during the Festive Season.

Also read: Support our furry friends this Festive Season

Tips for responsible pet ownership during the Festive Season

• Ensure your pets are identifiable: microchip them and confirm that the details are correct. Alternatively, use a collar with a tag that includes your contact information.
• If you are going away, ensure you have a reliable pet sitter with references or book your pets into a reputable kennel.
• Check your property: take a walk around and make sure there is no way your pet can escape.
• Consider fireworks and thunderstorms: make the necessary provisions for your pet. If you are not there to soothe them as usual, this could cause extra stress or anxiety.
• Keep vaccinations up to date and ensure your veterinarian’s details and your pets’ vaccination books are easily accessible in case of an emergency while you are away.
• If for any reason you are unable to safely keep your pet, please contact the Kloof and Highway SPCA on 031 764 1212 or bring them to our main reception. We will never turn away an animal in need.

“Sadly, during the festive season, more families are at home due to work and school holidays, and this often increases the abuse suffered by many animals and vulnerable people. If you witness any cruelty or abuse, please do not hesitate to contact us on 031 764 1212. All complaints are investigated, and all complainants’ details remain confidential. Please be the voice of the voiceless – we rely on you,” said Ferguson.

How you can help the Kloof and Highway SPCA

There are many ways to make a difference to the 800–1000 animals that will be in our care this festive season:

• Donate your unwanted household items to be sold in our thrift shops. We collect larger loads for your convenience.
• Sponsor a kennel for R200 a month or R2000 a year.
• Donate cat and kitten sachets – this is an ongoing need as litters of kittens are often surrendered.
• Provide toys and treats for our puppies and kittens.
• Donate blankets – the wet weather means we use even more bedding than usual.
• Visit our Tea Garden, Nursery, and Thrift Shops (open Tuesday–Saturday, 08:00–15:00).
• Visit our kennels to say hi to our animals and friendly staff.

“Although the festive season is one of the hardest, we are reminded that there are incredible people all around us. Thank you to every person who drives the extra kilometre to drop off a stray dog, the person who donates an extra bag of food, the person who adopts a new pet, and anyone who shares our passion, supports our values, and joins us in the continuous fight against animal cruelty.

“If you would like to help us, email Brigitte at [email protected].”

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