There is a desperate need at PAWS Haven for the adoption of newborn puppies, with more than 30 puppies currently in the care of the animal shelter.
These puppies are being fostered by PAWS Haven director Simoné Kotze, who is caring for them at her smallholding outside town for the time being.

The puppies do not come from traditional “good homes” and were found abandoned, neglected or malnourished.
Just yesterday (Thursday, June 18), PAWS removed a mother dog and her puppies from a property.
“She was so severely neglected that during the rescue operation, while we were trying to free her from underneath a concrete slab, she accidentally bit one of her four puppies to death out of fear,” says Kotze.

According to Kotze, the owner still has two female dogs and refuses to surrender them or have them sterilised.

“We honestly do not know where to turn anymore. Many of these puppies have underlying health and behavioural issues because of the conditions they have come from. The cost of treating and rehabilitating them is enormous.”

Costs include veterinary treatment for bacterial infections as well as food and other essential supplies. This week, PAWS Haven’s veterinarian is on leave and they were therefore forced to consult an outside veterinarian. The PAWS Haven vet helps with a reduced cost price, but treatment is still expensive.
“The treatment for a bacterial infection alone was over R800. Now multiply that by approximately 30 puppies,” emphasises Kotze.

Fostering such a large number of puppies requires constant supervision and careful monitoring to determine whether illnesses are contagious. Some puppies also do not get along with others and need to be separated.

Sterilisation is an important step in alleviating the pressure

“If the general public sterilised their dogs, we would see a decrease in the number of stray dogs on the streets. We could make a small profit to help cover these expenses while also preventing the future overpopulation of puppies and kittens,” states Kotze.

“I would like people to become more responsible pet owners. Have a medical savings fund for your pet or take out pet insurance. We receive countless requests to help people free of charge, often at our own expense.”

Need for adoption of adult dogs

PAWS Haven also currently has numerous adult dogs who desperately need a forever home. Some dogs have been at PAWS Haven for more than two years, with some reaching 4 and a half-years stay without finding a new owner.

Potch is not pet-friendly

According to Kotze, even those who are willing to own pets are often limited to one large dog or two small dogs. This leaves only a very small percentage of people who are actually in a position to adopt.

“Half of Potchefstroom is not pet-friendly. Of the places that are pet-friendly, many only allow cats. A large number of people simply do not want pets at all.”

For more information or if you would like to adopt a puppy, contact PAWS Haven on 063 181 3524.