COVID-19 and the resulting lockdown has taken its toll on organisations, businesses and people across the world, and staying positive has proven a challenge; however, those looking after the furry friends of Nelson Mandela Bay have not given up.
For Animal Welfare Society Port Elizabeth, the journey has been tough, but not all bad.
According to Cynthea van Rhijn of AWS PE, they haven’t closed their doors during lockdown, continuing to provide essential services for the animals in the community.
“Our staff have been great, taking really good care of our resident shelter animals and have not missed a day of work,” she said.
“Our veterinary clinic, led by our caring and dedicated resident vet, has been and is attending to our shelter animals, which includes strays, surrenders and animals rescued from situations of cruelty or neglect.”
Van Rhijn said lockdown level five was extremely tough on them. Adoptions weren’t allowed to take place then. They only reopened in mid-May, during level four, under strict conditions and by appointment only.
“We have, fortunately, enjoyed a steady interest from the public looking for pets to join their families and are over the moon with each very deserving animal finding a forever home! It’s so uplifting and heart-warming to receive happy photos/videos and feedback from the adoptive families.
“This is what keeps us all going through those tough moments,” she said.
They are still operating by appointment only and their donation drop-off points are open.
Then came the challenge . . .
It hasn’t been all sunshine and roses for them, though.
A few weeks ago, they ran out of dog food and had to launch a massive appeal to the public for help. At any time, they are working with and caring for more than 150 animals, a figure that may double, even triple, during their busiest times.
“We are so grateful to have received amazing support from many animal lovers in Port Elizabeth!
“However, food is a continuous need due to the many animals we care for at the shelter on a daily basis,” Van Rhijn said.
They have also had to postpone several of their fund-raising events due to the pandemic, such as their Shelter Sleepover – their primary fund-raiser – which was due to take place on April 15, and their municipal street collection.
To address the shortage in food and funds, they launched the 67 Challenge, calling on residents to “paw” it forward this Mandela Month and help them reach their goals of 67 sterilisations, 67 days of food, 67 blankets and 67 kennel/pen sponsorships.
“We are passionate about helping animals in need out there, but know that we cannot do it alone. We need help from everyone in the community.”
For more info and to get involved, visit www.awspe.co.za.
