“Absolutely fantastic, the response was amazing!”
This was the response from Deirdre Swift, chairperson of the Uitenhage & District SPCA management board when asked about the support from the public and local business towards the association during the Covid-19 pandemic lockdown.
“People came to drop off items and some even arranged for deliveries of items needed to fulfil our daily responsibilities at the kennels. Obviously, we are not allowing anyone other than staff members on to the property, therefore all donations are collected at the gate,” said Swift.
They received most of the items requested, even watering hosepipes and fittings to clean the kennels.
“We never have enough hosepipes and it is not an item that in general is on the mind of people when it comes to donations towards the SPCA. So, it really was a very welcome and much needed donation.
“With regard to the staff on site, the public’s donations of groceries were overwhelming and adequate. To such an extent that they were self-sufficient and there was no need to leave the premises to buy any food related items for themselves.”
What also was encouraging during the Covid-19 lockdown level 5 period, was the support from Lizette Janse van Vuuren from Morning Fresh Catering who for five weeks, each Tuesday, supplied supper to the staff who stayed on the premises.
Luckily, during this unfortunate time, there was no major increase in the take-in of stray, neglected or abused animals.
“We
are so glad that people are not surrendering or giving up their pets. It is a great sign, as financially it is tough o
ut there, but pet owners take good care of their dogs and cats.”
The financial support the Uitenhage & District SPCA received through appeals had a major impact in keeping the kennels up and running.
“Without the financial support, we would have been in desperate trouble. The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality again has only made a partial payment and they still owe the Uitenhage & District SPCA in the region of R98 000. We realize that the lockdown will continue for quite a while and people are cash strapped, but in going forward we will definitely still need financial support from the public,” said Swift.
“We are very, very grateful. But appeal to the public to please keep on supporting the SPCA, as we are not out of the woods yet,” said Swift.
What the Uitenhage & District SPCA is currently in need of are: Catmor kitten pellets, Jik, automatic washing powder and disposable paper hand towels (kitchen towels).
- For more information call the Uitenhage & District SPCA at 041 992 3016 or the emergency number 082 905 4716.
