SPCA faces severe funding shortfall
The Tshwane SPCA is urgently appealing for public and business support as it faces a severe financial crisis that threatens its ability to continue caring for hundreds of vulnerable animals each month, warning that without immediate and sustained funding, essential rescue, shelter, and welfare services could be severely impacted.
The Tshwane SPCA is making an urgent appeal for immediate financial assistance, warning that it is facing a severe funding crisis that threatens its ability to continue providing essential animal welfare services across the region.
Founded in 1910, the organisation has served the Pretoria community for more than 115 years, caring for animals that are abandoned, neglected, abused, injured, or surrendered.
The organisation said it remains a critical part of the local animal welfare system, responding to thousands of cases involving vulnerable animals each year.
It emphasised it is currently under extreme financial pressure and does not have sufficient funds to meet its monthly financial obligations.
Jeanine Niemann-Greatorex, chairperson of the Tshwane SPCA, said: “Without urgent monthly monetary donations from the public, businesses, organisations and supporters, we may no longer be able to continue our lifesaving work at the level that the animals and our community so desperately need.”
The organisation operates from its Waltloo and Centurion branches, which together house about 400 kennels.
It reports that between 700 and 800 animals arrive at its facilities every month, including stray animals, abandoned pets, surrendered animals, cruelty cases and injured animals. Each animal requires food, shelter, veterinary care, medication, and ongoing support.
Niemann-Greatorex said they receive no government funding and rely entirely on public donations, business support, kennel sponsorships, and self-generated income to remain operational.
She stressed that financial pressures have intensified significantly in recent years.
“Sadly, monetary donations have decreased dramatically, while the cost of running the organisation continues to rise. Our monthly operational cost is approximately R500 000 and more, just to keep the orgnisation operational and to care for the animals who depend on us. “
She said their financial position has been further weakened by the closure of its clinic for about a year and a half, which previously served as an important source of income.
“The clinic was one of the main sources from which we generated income, and during the time it was closed, we were unable to bring in the funds we so desperately needed. While our income decreased significantly, our monthly operational costs continued.”
She warned that their available funds have been severely depleted, leaving it in a precarious position.
“We are now facing the heartbreaking reality that, without urgent and consistent monthly financial support, we may not be able to continue our lifesaving work.”
Monthly operational expenses include animal food, veterinary treatment, medication, vaccines, sterilisation support, cleaning materials, disinfectants, electricity, water, municipal costs, fuel for inspectors and emergency call-outs, vehicle maintenance, kennel maintenance, bedding, administrative costs, and staff salaries.
Niemann-Greatorex highlighted concerns about the consequences should operations be forced to scale back:
“Our greatest fear is what will happen to the animals if the Tshwane SPCA cannot continue operating as it should. Where will the strays go? What will happen to the surrendered animals? Who will respond to cruelty complaints? Who will investigate abuse, neglect and suffering? Who will give shelter to the animals who have no voice, no home and no one else to protect?”
She pointed out that the organisation exists to protect and advocate for animals that cannot speak for themselves.
“We urgently need monthly monetary donations. Once-off donations are deeply appreciated and can help us immediately, but monthly support gives us the stability we desperately need to plan ahead, meet our obligations and continue caring for the animals who depend on us. Every monthly donor, no matter the amount, becomes part of the safety net that keeps our animals fed, protected and cared for,” she said.
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