VIDEO: SPCA blames community for closing its doors.

Fluffy kittens, charming cats and bushy tailed dogs of all pedigrees sit in cages at the Krugersdorp SPCA awaiting their big move, following the announcement that this SPCA branch will be closing its doors for good.

A community up in arms has turned to the News for answers regarding the finances of the SPCA, and their concerns about the welfare of the animals.

The News visited the Krugersdorp SPCA, which seems like a ghost town with many empty cages standing open and very little activity inside.

Entering the impound, kittens and cats in a row of cages are waiting for their future owners to save them from a lonely life behind bars.

They greet with their soft meowing as if they were pleading for a home as you pass gate after gate with unwanted pets behind them.

Approaching the back the News discovered dogs, big and small from different breeds, jumping up and down hoping to catch someone’s attention.

Some compete to see who can give the best puppy-eyed look in an attempt to be adopted.

To view more photos of these adorable cats and dogs, click here.

After the visit, the News immediately contacted the SPCA’s spokesperson, Jolene Beyleveld regarding the nonexistent SPCA charity shop, which was meant to raise funds for the animals.

“Krugersdorp did have a charity shop, but unfortunately the funds generated were not viable to continue operating the shop. We therefore used the space as an extension of the theatre where we could combat overpopulation by sterilising more animals.”

The News asked what they did in the past six years to generate extra income to support the branch.

“Unfortunately, we have tried fundraising, through direct mail appeals as well as attempting golf days. The last golf day had to be cancelled as only four teams entered. However, this does not mean we did not get some support from the same donors living in and around the community, but unfortunately it was not enough.”

Early in February the News decided to visit the SPCA to take photos of the animals up for adoption to feature in the Valentine’s Day edition of the newspaper, but was sent away as the SPCA believed the News wanted to promote the animals being used as gifts.

After receiving the cold shoulder in an attempt to promote the many cats in their care, the News decided to support another animal shelter, Friends of Rescued Animals (Fora) instead, who welcomed the gesture with open arms.

Since the announcement, numerous calls from upset residents have been received. The general feeling is that the SPCA should have done a better job in promoting the animals as well as raising funds.

“I am receiving numerous calls relating to someone who has been giving information out that it only costs R50 000 per month to run Krugersdorp. This is completely inaccurate. It is a much larger amount; especially if you look at the operational costs, water and lights, staffing etc,” Beyleveld said.

Beyleveld clarified that the Roodepoort and Randburg SPCAs can help with accepting stray animals.

“However the JSPCA still will be in the area to collect strays. They unfortunately do not have boarding space available. Germiston SPCA offers boarding.”

With regard to the staff, they have been offered alternative job arrangements due to the branch’s closure and not because of complaints about their rude attitude towards the public.

Who do you feel is to blame for the closing down of this branch? Should the Krugersdorp community have done more to help? Let us know what you think by leaving your comment in the box provided below.