January usually brings a fresh start for families, and for many, this will include the addition of a new furry or feathered member of the household.

Annecia le Roux, Springs SPCA manager, told the Springs Advertiser about how impulsive decisions to get pets without long-term plans often lead to neglect, surrender, or abandonment once daily life and financial realities return.

She said that before a family brings any animal home, they must ensure they have a secure shelter, appropriate food, fresh water at all times, access to veterinary care, and the financial ability to meet ongoing costs. Time, patience, and commitment are just as important as physical preparation.

She also said the most common mistakes new owners make are impulse buying, underestimating costs, lack of training, delayed veterinary care, and failing to understand that a pet is a 10 to 15-year commitment, not a seasonal decision or a gift.

“Beyond food, owners must budget for vaccinations, parasite control, sterilisation, grooming, training, bedding, toys, and emergency veterinary care. A single vet emergency can cost thousands of rand. If someone cannot afford these costs, they are not in a position to own a pet,” said Le Roux.

She added that vaccinations are critical and lifesaving. Puppies and kittens should begin their vaccinations from six to eight weeks, followed by booster schedules. Unvaccinated animals are at serious risk of preventable diseases such as parvo and distemper, which they see far too often at the SPCA.

Pets require consistent, species-appropriate diets, not scraps or guesswork. Grooming is essential for hygiene and health, particularly for long-haired breeds. Daily care includes exercise, mental stimulation, clean living spaces, and regular health checks.

Homes must be ‘pet-proofed’. This includes secure fencing, safe sleeping areas, removal of hazardous objects and plants, safe storage of chemicals, and supervision, especially during the first few months when animals explore everything with their mouths.

She said parents should teach children respect for animals and that pets are not toys. She reminded adults that they remain responsible for the pet’s care, training, and supervision.

ALSO READ: Springs SPCA urges residents to protect pets from fireworks this festive season

“Training should start immediately and must be based on consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement. Physical punishment and shouting are unacceptable and ineffective. Poor training is one of the leading causes of behavioural problems and eventual surrender,” said the manager.

She also said that the new pet owner should not ignore the signs of illness, which include loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, coughing, limping, discharge from eyes or nose, sudden behaviour changes, or pain reactions. Early veterinary intervention saves lives.

Le Roux shared that as a local animal shelter, the SPCA offers advice, inspections, welfare assistance, and guidance. There are also local veterinarians and trainers willing to help. Asking for help early can prevent suffering and crisis situations.

She encourages pets to be adopted, as it saves lives. She said that their animals are vaccinated, sterilised, health-checked, and temperament assessed.

“The process includes an application, screening, and home suitability checks to ensure the best possible match. Adoption is responsible ownership in action,” said Le Roux.

Le Roux shared a message for new pet owners that a pet is not a lifestyle accessory or a temporary comfort. It is a living being that depends entirely on the owner.
“If you are not prepared for the time, cost, responsibility, and commitment, please do not get a pet. If you are ready, adopt responsibly, plan properly, and commit for life.”

ALSO READ: Soup Kitchen founder reflects on heartwarming initiative