A number of puppies have tragically died, and residents have been evacuated due to the Sardinia Bay veld fire, which started yesterday, February 28. While the situation in some areas has improved, others remain at risk due to strong winds.
The Animal Anti-Cruelty League Port Elizabeth has reported the tragic loss of six puppies.
There are also concerns regarding wild animals in the area, and their status remains unknown due to the inaccessibility of certain areas. Assessment will be possible once the affected areas become more accessible.
Animal Anti-Cruelty League Port Elizabeth’s spokesperson, Karien van Schalkwyk said the puppies died at the municipal waterworks pump on Victoria Drive.
“The puppies belonged to one litter owned by residents of a house located near the waterworks pump, ” she said.
Van Schalkwyk urged, that animal owners must have an evacuation plan ready for themselves.
“If you have dogs, have their leads close by, so that you can quickly load them in a car.
“Put their neck collar and tags on. If you have cats, have carriers or boxes ready to quickly load them,” Van Schalkwyk added.
Van Schalkwyk further added,” It is important to check animals’ hooves for burns as well as to be alert to smoke inhalation symptoms.
” It is advisable to contact one’s veterinarian when in doubt.”
“We also urge residents and volunteers to assist us in being alert and on the lookout for any buck, tortoises and other wild animals that may have suffered injuries,” she concluded.
The Animal Welfare Society located on Victoria Drive were not affected by the veld fire.
Leslie Schultz, speaking on behalf of the Sector 1 Crime Forum, has appealed to the community for support in aiding firefighters.
“We encourage individuals to contribute by donating eye drops and lip balm,” Schultz stated.
“Donations can be made at Mount Pleasant Spar and the Summerbreeze SuperSpar in Summerstrand. Additionally, we kindly ask donors to refrain from contributing Vaseline, as it could pose a risk of burns.”
Providing updates on the situation, Nelson Mandela Bay Spokesperson, Mthubanzi Mniki, has reported that the fires are now manageable, and are being contained by the municipal fire department.
“The teams are trying control the areas that have a flare ups, due to the wind speed has subsided,” said Mniki.
The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality is aware of a raging fire in the Sardinia Bay area. Residents are urged to use alternative routes as streets such as Victoria Drive and surrounding roads are currently blocked. Glendore Road is currently still accessible. pic.twitter.com/LKsvWgGRAo
— Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (@NMandelaBaymuni) February 28, 2024
