As Cape Town braces for another wave of intense winter weather, animals in informal settlements are silently suffering often forgotten as residents scramble for safety and warmth.
“We’ve been inundated with calls, almost 60% involve animals exposed to the elements,” says Belinda Abraham, spokesperson for the Cape of Good Hope SPCA.
With strong winds and disruptive rainfall lashing flood-prone parts of the metro, particularly on the Cape Flats, the SPCA has ramped up its emergency response.
“Animals suffer silently,” Abraham warned. “During extreme weather, they depend entirely on us for shelter and protection.”
On the Ground in Flooded Areas
In partnership with the City of Cape Town’s Disaster Risk Management Centre, the SPCA has already rescued several domestic and farm animals from dangerous conditions—some from collapsed shelters, others from owners unable to afford repairs.
“The low-lying areas, including most of the Cape Flats and informal settlements, are of highest concern,” said Abraham. “We’ve been proactive in these areas, which were already waterlogged last week, and our efforts have intensified.”
A community’s quiet struggle
In e-Yardini, Samora Machel, 27-year-old Phumla Mqhele clutched a thin blanket around her shivering dog, Siza. “He was crying all night,” she said softly. “He can’t sleep inside.”
Like many others, Mqhele must balance survival with compassion.“I try to keep him safe,” she added. “But sometimes I must choose between buying food for both of us.”
SPCA on high alert
Although the City has not yet activated its Joint Operations Centre (JOC), the SPCA is on standby.“A JOC is usually activated at very short notice,” Abraham explained. “We’re ready to join the coordinated response when it’s triggered.” In the meantime, the organisation is urging pet owners to act early:Bring animals indoors where possible, provide dry bedding,ensure food and water aren’t contaminated by floodwater
How you can help
The SPCA is appealing to the public for support.
“Please take care of your animals, and call the SPCA if you need to evacuate and have animals needing safekeeping,” Abraham urged.
She also called on residents to keep an eye out for , animals in distress,stray pets,Wild animals like baby birds or porcupines washed from stormwater drains
To report animal emergencies contact the Cape of Good Hope SPCA on 021 700 4158 or for
after hours 083 326 1604
