SPCA forced to cut back on services due to lack of funds
The society has a number of other important announcements it needs you to take note of.
The Lower South Coast SPCA has some very important information which it would like you to please read, act on and pass along to friends and family.
* The recent outbreak of canine distemper, parvo (parvovirus) and feline panleukopenia is very concerning and everyone is urged to vaccinate urgently both their cats and dogs.
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Recently, more than 100 dogs in Knysna had to be put down as the number of animals affected by canine distemper continued to increase.
The first signs of canine distemper include sneezing, coughing and thick mucus coming from the eyes and nose. Fever, lethargy, sudden vomiting and diarrhoea, depression and/or loss of appetite are also symptoms of the virus
Signs and symptoms of canine parvovirus include the following: Bloody diarrhoea (often severe), fever, lethargy (lack of energy), loss of appetite, malaise (discomfort associated with illness), rapid weight loss and vomiting.
Michael Muller, manager of the LSC SPCA said the only preventative measure against both these viruses was vaccination.
* Adoption fees and pound fees increased from June 1. The adoption fee increase now includes a micro-chip. The new fees are as follows: R650 to adopt a male dog, R750 for a female dog, R400 for a male cat and R450 for a female cat. Pound fees have increased from R50 to R100.
* Due to financial constraints the SPCA’s veterinary services have been scaled down and there will now be only one vet on duty.
Clinic hours have also been shortened and the clinic will now be open only from 11am to 2pm, Monday to Friday.
Mr Muller said the LSC SPCA was no longer be able to offer veterinary services outside clinic hours and euthanasia was now the only option offered at weekends and after hours.
“We have had to make this difficult decision largely due to tough economic times. We had wanted to provide a 24/7 service to the community but public support has diminished so we were sadly forced to reduce our veterinary services,” he said.
* The SPCA has been contracted by Ray Nkonyeni Municipality to collect dead animals from the road. This will include only small animals, such as dogs, cats or monkeys.
The SPCA can be contacted at 083 2226355 or 039 3120962.
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