As winter settles over Gauteng, the drop in temperature is placing added strain on the hundreds of dogs and cats waiting for homes at the Kempton Park SPCA.

While many households are able to stay warm indoors with heaters and blankets, animals at the shelter depend entirely on community support to endure the cold winter nights.

Kempton Park SPCA manager Javone Lewis said the shelter faces an ongoing and urgent need for blankets, beds, towels and warm bedding every winter to protect vulnerable animals from the cold.

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“The SPCA has previously appealed to the public for help, explaining that many kennels need multiple layers of blankets to keep animals comfortable during winter,” said Lewis.

The shelter cares for a large number of abandoned, neglected and rescued animals on a daily basis.
Many arrive frightened, underweight, or recovering from illness or injury.

According to the organisation, warm bedding is not only about comfort. It is also essential for their health, recovery and wellbeing during freezing conditions.
The SPCA is specifically in need of:
• Blankets and storm blankets
• Dog and cat beds
• Towels
• Plastic pallets
• Plastic beds and other warm bedding materials

Community support has made a significant difference in previous winters, with local residents and animal lovers donating blankets, towels and food to help keep shelter animals warm and cared for.

The SPCA is once again appealing to the public to assist this winter.

Even a single blanket can provide warmth and comfort to an animal spending cold nights in a kennel.

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Durable items such as storm or army blankets are especially valuable, as they can be washed and reused.

The organisation is encouraging residents to come together to ensure no animal is left to face the cold alone, with even small contributions helping to offer warmth, comfort and hope to animals awaiting a second chance at life.

Donations can be dropped off at the Kempton Park SPCA, 130 Fitter Road, Spartan, Kempton Park.

The organisation also welcomes financial contributions, pet food and other essential supplies.

For more information or to support their work, visit www.kemptonspca.co.za or find the Kempton Park SPCA on Facebook.