SPCA inspectors pledge to continue to be the voice of the voiceless
Ratsela said the lockdown had been a strenuous time for all.
For a local senior SPCA inspector his favourite part of the job is to make a difference in the lives of animals even during the hard and dire times in the current national lockdown.
Senior inspector Diale Ratsela is one of the six Tshwane inspectors who cover a large municipal area.He said the lockdown restrictions would not hold him down or keep him from serving the community.
“The difference made in the life of the animal before and after the intervention of an SPCA inspector is one of the things to be proud of,” Ratsela said.
A typical day in the life of an inspector starts with the check for new emails that normally contain information about new animal cruelty complaints and new correspondence. Other responsibilities include cruelty complaint follow-ups, pre-home inspections, making appointments and updating of previously attended complaints. An inspection of the kennels is also undertaken when due.
During the day, an inspector may have to attend emergency animal cruelty complaints, including rescues.
Pro-active inspections are also conducted at places where animals are kept or worked.
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Ratsela said the lockdown had resulted in many animals being surrendered because people could no longer afford to keep them.
“Numerous complaints of pets being abandoned have been attended to. Places where animals are farmed, kept or worked, including livestock farms, petting farms, pet shops, game farms, security companies etc, have been neglected due to lack of income and staff shortages,” he said.
He said the inspectors have been visiting these places and conducting inspections to ensure the welfare of the animals.
“At informal settlements we carry out inspections and distribute pet food.”
The large municipal area Tshwane SPCA has to cover is a challenge for Ratsela and his colleagues, with only six inspectors.
“This results in the inspectors stretching their efforts to attend all matters affecting animal welfare. The acquisition of more inspectors will alleviate the impact and improve efficiency but funds are a scare resource,” he said.
Ratsela said the lockdown had been a strenuous time for all.
“The Tshwane inspectors have made a pledge to go forth and be strong and be there where animals have taken a back seat when it comes to their welfare and care. The Tshwane SPCA inspectors pledge to continue fighting for the voiceless,” he said.
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