KOUGA – Representatives of two of Kouga’s long-serving animal welfare organisations have expressed their heartfelt gratitude after Kouga Local Municipality approved long-term right-to-use agreements, securing the future of the vital services they provide to animals and communities across the region.

At a Special Council meeting on 27 July, Council granted final approval for Jeffreys Bay Animal Rescue to continue occupying a portion of Erf 8783, Jeffreys Bay, and for SPCA Assisi to continue operating from a portion of Erf 499, Humansdorp.

According to the municipality, both organisations have been awarded right-to-use agreements for a period of nine years, 11 months.

Kouga Executive Mayor Hattingh Bornman said Council recognises the invaluable role that animal welfare organisations play in supporting both animals and residents.

“Animal welfare is about far more than caring for animals. These organisations provide an essential community service by preventing cruelty, promoting responsible pet ownership and supporting many vulnerable families who would otherwise be unable to access assistance for their animals,” said Bornman.

Jessie Naude of JBay Animal Rescue Sanctuary said that since the early 2000s, they have been working in the townships, conducting outreach in Pellsrus and Ocean View.

She said that at the time they could not keep up with the demand in the area and were not able to sterilise as many animals as they knew they needed to, to make a difference.

Naude said they saw a vacant piece of land and approached Kouga Municipality, and after a year of negotiations, they secured a five-year lease.

“We built kennels, a consult room, reception area and a surgery. Since then, we have added a laundry and six more kennels and extended our cattery,” said Naude.

She said they had been waiting in anticipation for this renewed lease and now that it has been confirmed, they feel blessed that their prayers were answered.

Naude said the sanctuary relies on funds generated through their charity shop located at 22 Jeffrey Street, Drommedaris Building, and various fundraising initiatives, which have allowed them to continue expanding the facility.

She said the sanctuary has a registered veterinarian, Dr Shannon Theobald, who is at the clinic once a week, where she sterilises and treats at least 25 animals.

Naude further thanked their additional staff members, Annelize Meyer, Lindelwa Dyan (general worker), Vusi Singatha (field worker), Siyabonga January (field worker) and Bernadine Claassen (receptionist).

She also thanked the community, everyone who supported the sanctuary, as well as their volunteers.

“We wouldn’t be here without them and we hope to be here for a very long time to come, helping the animals in need,” said Naude.

Louise Bakkes of SPCA Assisi thanked Kouga Municipality and Bornman for granting SPCA Assisi a long-term lease agreement for their facility.

She said it has been a long journey, and they are incredibly thankful for the trust and confidence placed in their organisation.

“Knowing that we have the security of a 10-year lease gives us the peace of mind to continue caring for vulnerable animals, planning for the future, and expanding the services we provide to our community,” said Bakkes.

“Every rescued animal, every successful adoption, every outreach programme, and every life changed is made possible because we have a safe place to call home. This lease is more than just an agreement. It is an investment in the welfare of the animals and the people we serve.”

Bakkes said their doors are always open to Bornman, councillors and municipal officials who would like to visit the facility.

“We would be honoured to show them the work that takes place behind the scenes every day and the difference their support is helping us make,” said Bakkes.

“From everyone at SPCA Assisi, our committee, staff, volunteers, and, of course, the countless animals in our care, thank you for believing in our mission and for helping secure a brighter future for animal welfare in the Kouga region.”

Bakkes said they are looking forward to many more years of working together to build a kinder, more compassionate community for all.

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