‘Angels’ step in to help SPCA
"The distemper outbreak has been a nightmare. It's the worst thing that has happened to the SPCA - ever," said Michael Muller, manager of the LSC SPCA
The Lower South Coast SPCA says it is extremely grateful to the South Coast community for its incredible support during this difficult time.
Two weeks ago, 73 dogs were euthanised due to an outbreak of distemper.
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The virus put tremendous financial strain on the society, and so far, R88 000 has been spent to get the disease under control.
“The outbreak has been a nightmare. It’s the worst thing that has happened to the SPCA – ever,” said LSC SPCA manager, Michael Muller.
However, on a brighter note, Mr Muller said the society has managed to raise more than R60 000 for their ‘distemper fund’, thanks to the extremely generous donations from the community.
Particular thanks, he said, went to Doctor Brenda Bosch who paid R31 260 for six drums of expensive veterinary disinfectant, and the team from Property Port who donated a whopping R10 000.
Kenny Rolfe of Property Port said each agent had personally donated, from their own pockets, towards this.
“We do this to be socially responsible, and once the agents have reached a bulk amount, they donate it to an organisation,” he said.
Mr Muller explained that the new stricter control measures implemented at the SPCA will mean the society will have to find a further R180 000 each year.
He added their next big project would be to vaccinate some 1 000 dogs in the Masinenge informal settlement, situated at the back of the SPCA premises.
“We are concerned that the disease may have spread, so every cent of the money raised will also be used to purchase vaccines for the dogs in Masinenge,” he said.
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Another R26 000 was raised at the golf day held at San Lameer Country Club last week. Winners, Johan Neethling and Deon Meyer, were followed by Peter Leeming and Gary Purtell in second place.
Around 11 400 animals pass through the SPCA’s premises each year, and the organisation depends solely on the public’s support to keep the doors open.
Every pet owner is urged to get their pet vaccinated against distemper.
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