SPCA vs Pound: Know the difference

Residents are often misinformed when it comes to understanding the difference between the functions of the SPCA and the Municipal Pound. More often than not the SPCA bears the brunt for all things animal, but misconceptions like these need to be clarified.

The SPCA operates in terms of the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962 as well as Newcastle’s municipal bylaws. In laymen’s terms, the act provides for the protection of animals from any and all instances where harm has or may come to the animal when a prohibited action, such as the confining of an animal to a room with poor ventilation, is committed.

“The pound is responsible for the impounding of stray dogs and cats. Once an animal has been impounded., it is kept at the pound as per the provisions of the bylaws relating to the keeping of animals and birds. The owner of an animal can claim the animal after the payment of the applicable tariffs, once the pound is satisfied the person is indeed the owner. If an animal is not claimed, it is ‘disposed’ of as per the bylaws and relevant legislation,” said Siya Zuma of the Municipal Pound.

“We are the only animal organisation in South Africa that is legislated to accept every animal surrendered to us. We service a large area with only a single vehicle; we cannot possibly get around to everyone’s complaints,” said Heather Gero.

Manpower and resources may be limited, but the SPCA still goes beyond their call of duty. The pound endeavors to tend to every call as quickly and efficiently as possible.

“Although we do as much as we can, we cannot operate on the assumption that because an animal is roaming the streets, it will be run over by a vehicle. That is ludicrous,” said Mrs Gero.

The pound operates according to bylaws promulgated by the municipality. If an animal is roaming the streets, the pound is responsible. Once an animal is harmed in any way, the SPCA is authorised by law to take action.

“Unfortunately everybody thinks their phone call is the only phone call we receive. For every phone call we receive, twenty more have come before it,” said Mrs Gero.

The pound is faced with a similar problem, “We are inundated with calls that are often unrelated to the pound and use overstretched resources to the best of our ability,” said Mr Zuma.

The SPCA is not affiliated to the Municipal Pound in any way. Compliance with the bylaws does not imply that a partnership exists, but they have forged a relationship that has proven to be beneficial to both parties.

Unfortunately, the SPCA continues to receive a social media backlash ever so often. Despite countless attempts and explanations via the media, the SPCA is still not appreciated for the thankless work it does.

“We are damned if we do, we are damned if we don’t,” remarked Mrs Gero.

Any complaints regarding stray animals should be forwarded to the Municipal Pound on 034 328 7757.