As many families prepare for a season of rest and celebration, the Durban & Coast SPCA is gearing up for one of its busiest times of the year. Last year alone, more than 400 animals were brought to the organisation between Christmas and New Year, and only ten were reunited with their owners.
Brigid McCleary, Financial Planner at Designed Wealth, is urging the public to support the Durban & Coast SPCA and to take responsible steps to safeguard pets during the holidays. “The SPCA should not carry this burden alone. If we each do our small part, we can create a wave of kindness that transforms countless lives,” she says. “You don’t have to work in animal welfare to make a difference. Every act of care matters.”
Each December, the SPCA deals with a spike in abandoned and neglected pets, as well as animals rescued from unsafe environments. Their dedicated teams continue to feed, treat and protect vulnerable animals throughout the festive season, but the organisation stresses that community support remains vital.
“Love doesn’t go on holiday. Whether you are travelling, adopting, donating, or simply spreading awareness, your actions help give animals a chance at comfort and safety,” says Tanya Fleischer, Marketing Manager at the Durban & Coast SPCA.
How the community can help:
• Donate pet food or make a monetary contribution
• Microchip your pets and encourage others to do the same
• Ensure pets are cared for if you are travelling
• Adopt thoughtfully and responsibly
• If struggling, seek help rather than abandoning a pet
To support the Durban & Coast SPCA, call 031 579 6534/5 or visit their website to donate, volunteer, foster or learn more about responsible pet care: www.spcadbn.org.za
