Snares on the rise, Letaba SPCA warns
Another dog has been freed from a snare, with the Letaba SPCA reporting dozens removed recently and warning residents not to approach trapped animals themselves but to call for help instead.
TZANEEN – Residents are being urged to remain vigilant after another dog was rescued from a snare over the weekend, highlighting the ongoing danger posed by snares to domestic animals, livestock and wildlife.
Letaba SPCA said in a Facebook post that 12 snares have been removed recently, while a further 17 were discovered and removed in the Lushof area in May.
The incidents have raised concerns about animals wandering into areas where snares have been placed.
Injuries and risks of snares
Snares can cause severe injuries and prolonged suffering. Animals caught in them may panic and struggle, potentially worsening their injuries.
Frightened or injured animals can also become dangerous to anyone attempting a rescue.
What to do if you find a trapped animal
Residents who discover an animal caught in a snare are advised not to approach or attempt to remove the device themselves, particularly when dealing with wildlife. Instead, people should keep a safe distance, prevent other people and animals from approaching, and contact an appropriate animal rescue organisation, wildlife authority, SPCA or veterinary professional.
If it is safe to do so, residents can take a photograph or video from a distance and record the exact location or drop a pin. Accurate location information can help rescuers reach a trapped animal as quickly as possible.
Residents are also encouraged to report anyone suspected of setting illegal snares to the relevant authorities rather than confronting them directly.
Reporting missing animals
The warning comes alongside a call for pet owners to report missing animals promptly through local lost-and-found and animal rescue WhatsApp groups.
Missing-animal notices should include the location and time the animal was last seen, recent photographs, the animal’s name, colour, breed and distinguishing markings, as well as a safe contact method.
Residents are encouraged to check their properties and familiar walking routes where it is safe to do so, while keeping an eye out for missing animals in surrounding areas, the Letaba SPCA said.
