The National Council of SPCA’s Special Projects Unit is dedicated to ensuring the well-being of working animals across South Africa. By supporting their efforts you can help ensure that these dedicated creatures receive the respect and care they deserve.

South Africa (22 October 2024) – While our furry friends make great companions and are always available for endless doses of cuddles and play, many others play important roles in various workforces.

From dogs who help fight crime in police K9 units to those who help the visually impaired, these animals do so much to support people and their needs.

Recognising that these animals are not merely tools, the National Council of SPCAs Special Projects Unit (SPU) cares deeply about these hardworking animals.

Members of the unit conduct regular inspections at facilities that keep animals for security, search and rescue, and crime prevention.

“We recognise the invaluable role that animals play in keeping our country safe and it is imperative that the facilities that house working animals meet stringent welfare standards,” the organisation said.

The team proactively responds to welfare concerns and has successfully addressed many complaints over the years, enhancing the lives of numerous working animals.

“We strongly believe these animals are not merely tools, but sentient beings deserving of respect, compassion, and dignity.

“We work hard to understand the unique challenges faced by different types of working animals and advocate for their welfare.”

The National Council of SPCAs encourages the greater public to support its work in ensuring that all animals are treated with respect, compassion, and dignity – especially those who happen to have a 9-to-5.

To report animal cruelty, email specialprojects@nspca.co.za. To donate to the Special Projects Unit visit www.nspca.co.za.

Sources: National Council of SPCAs

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It’s almost time for dog lovers in Cape Town to enjoy a day in ‘pawradise’ as Woefie Wandel 2024 approaches to support the Cape of Good Hope SPCA! From walks with fellow dog lovers to an art station just for pooches, food stalls and even pet-friendly photo booths, here’s what’s on the cards:

Green Point, South Africa (20 October 2024) — If a day spent out at a park surrounded by dogs, greenery and fellow dog lovers is your idea of paradise (or should we say, pawradise), then the 2024 Woefie Wandel might just be the next thing you add to your social calendar with immediate effect.

On the one paw, the Woefie Wandel is a big fundraising opportunity for the Cape of Good Hope SPCA whose tireless work for the betterment of Cape animals makes a massive difference every week. On the other, it’s a wagging and wonderful way to connect with animal lovers while letting your dog enjoy a range of pooch-friendly activities!

On the cards for the day set to be hosted at the ever-tranquil Green Point Park are:

• Walkies—two walks, one 1.2km and a 1.9km
• Food Stalls—because what’s a walk without a treat to look forward to?
• Art for Pooches—Yes, your dog has the go-ahead to unleash its inner Pawcasso!
• A pet-friendly Photobooth
• Contests: There will be contests for the Best lookalike dog, the happiest dog and more
• A Pet Pop-up Shop
• A Mobile Clinic—Get those rabies vaccinations and microchipping out of the way on the day!
• A Mini Funfair—So that your human kids can also let their hair down

Last year, Woefie Wandel helped the Cape of Good Hope SPCA raise R50,000 thanks to 600 participants and the many, many four-legged friends present. And if those numbers are anything to go by, hopes are higher than your dog’s leap to catch a frisbee that 2024 will have a marvellous impact.

Details

• When: Sunday, 17 November; gates open at 8 am
• Where: Green Point Park, Cape Town
• Tickets: You can grab a spot for yourself, your dogs and your friend who just loves being around dogs here.

Sources: Cape of Good Hope SPCA 

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From pet food donations to monetary contributions, the Kloof and Highway SPCA has been overwhelmed by the generosity of the community which has made their invaluable work possible.

Kloof, South Africa (17 October 2024) – With a heart filled with thanksgiving, the Kloof and Highway SPCA recently took to social media to thank its selfless supporters for continuously pouring into their cup.

The animal rescue recently acknowledged and thanked everyone who generously donates to their worthy cause which serves as a lifeline to countless animals in need.

“Often those who donate and help the most never ask for a ‘thank you’. We want you to know how much we appreciate your support always,” the organisation said.

The SPCA’s staff and volunteers have also been working tirelessly to spruce up the space and tea garden, creating a haven for animals, a place where they can find love, care, and a second chance at life.

“Our dog walkers have ensured that our goats have an enrichment area, and some volunteers helped do a garden in our Village Green.

“We have also had some wonderful students come and do community service and help us too. Donated plants are sold in our nursery, and your unwanted donated goods keep our charity shops stocked.”

Whether it be through donating unwanted household goods, pet food, volunteering or monetary donations, none of these developments would be possible without the generosity and kindness of animal lovers who don’t think twice about supporting the incredible work of assisting vulnerable animals.

To learn more about how you can support the Kloof and Highway SPCA call 031 764 1212.

Sources: Kloof and Highway SPCA

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South Africa, it’s time to #ChangeOneThing! By signing the “Save the Last of South Africa’s Rhinos” petition, you can show your solidarity and amplify the call for stronger protection measures for our beloved rhinos.

Johannesburg, South Africa (15 October 2024) – Far too many precious rhinos have suffered at the hands of heartless and greedy poachers, robbing our wildlife of their basic right to life and putting them at threat of extinction.

But, now is the time for your voice to be heard and join the fight to safeguard these iconic animals for generations to come.

Jamie Joseph from Saving the Wild, in collaboration with the Jane Goodall Institute’s Roots and Shoots South Africa, is dedicated to introducing legislation in South Africa that will protect rhinos and other wildlife from poaching.

By introducing stricter legislation, the organisations aim to create a safer haven for rhinos and other wildlife. They are calling upon South Africans to join forces and demand change.

“As it stands, there is no strict legislation to protect our rhinos from dangerous poaching practices,” says Kayla Hovelmeier, a Jane Goodall Institute’s Roots and Shoots South Africa volunteer.

Jamie Joseph will be taking the lead and heading to parliament to present a comprehensive proposal to the Minister of Forestries, Fisheries, and Environment.

However, the success of this endeavour depends on the unwavering support of the public. The only way parliament will see that this is important is by seeing that real South Africans are passionate about this change and protecting rhinos.

“Most rhino poaching cases do not get to trial, and if there is a conviction, it is either a fine or a prison term of less than five years that almost never gets served in its entirety,” Jamie explains.

For this very reason, the great public is being encouraged to sign the Save the Last of South Africa’s Rhinos petition and add their names so that the Minister can see how many people are demanding the protection of our rhinos and wildlife.

The goal is to reach at least 10,000 signatures for #RhinoLaws before Jamie goes into parliament.

To be a part of the solution and ensure that rhinos can roam the wild free of the threat of poaching, add your name to the petition at https://www.change.org/p/save-the-last-of-south-africa-s-rhinos-with-legislation 

Sources: Supplied

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After suffering a nasty kick from a zebra, a tiny injured Nyala calf named Rimmy was welcomed to the Friends of Free Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, where he began his journey of recovery with much care and attention.

Midrand, South Africa (14 October 2024) – Friends of Free Wildlife recently welcomed their first and most adorable antelope patient, with big ears, dark eyes, and endearingly long, wobbly legs.

The team of wildlife heroes was thrilled to welcome a beautiful male Nyala calf, named “Rimmy”, to occupy one of the stalls in the facility’s brand-new mammal enclosure.

According to the wildlife rehabilitation centre, Rimmy started life off on the wrong foot when he was kicked by a zebra at the lodge where he was born.

He unfortunately sustained a fracture to the radius on his left front leg and was meticulously treated by Dr Jean at Bryanston Avian, Exotic and Small Animal Clinic (BAESAC).

The dedicated team at Friends of Free Wildlife, along with the expertise of veterinarians at Onderstepoort Wildlife Clinic, worked tirelessly to mend Rimmy’s broken bones and restore his mobility.

Thankfully, it wasn’t long until Rimmy was back on his feet sporting a fancy purple bandage covering a contraption known as an ‘external ring fixator’.

“The surgeon is very happy with his progress and the fixator and bandages have now been removed.

“We are extremely fortunate and most grateful to one of our volunteers, Janet, who sprung into action and within minutes secured sponsorship from RIMKEM for the entire procedure,” said Lauren Haupt of Friends of Free Wildlife.

Rimmy is well on the road to recovery. Special thanks go to the wonderful vets at Onderstepoort and the formidable animal specialists Claudius and Meg, who have been keeping the little calf comfortable, fed and happy from morning to night.

Sources: Friends of Free Wildlife

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Khayelitsha has gotten a new mobile clinic for its animals! An essential primary healthcare services resource on wheels, a mini ambulance and education station on the move, this new addition is set to make a big difference!

Khayelitsha, South Africa (14 October 2024) — The Mdzananda Animal Clinic has launched its second mobile clinic for animals in an effort to reach even more tails in the Khayelitsha area.

It’s hopeful news for the area that is largely under-serviced when it comes to accessing resources like veterinary healthcare.

To put this into perspective, consider that Mdzananda is the only veterinary health care service and shelter in the vast Khayelitsha community where around 300,000 companion animals live!

The new mobile clinic means that there will be more wheels on the ground for animal welfare across a spectrum of helpful measures, from those that prevent disease to those that educate pet owners on how to effectively care for their animals.

Marcelle du Plessis of Mdzananda explains that the mobile clinic for animals will offer primary healthcare services like vaccinations, deworming, and flea and tick treatments. It will also act as a mini ambulance for animals that are injured or very ill; allowing them to be transported back to base at the stationary Mdzananda Clinic where they can get the help they need. Additionally, an education officer will also accompany the mobile fleet to ensure that one-on-one education for pet owners can be provided easily.

The Clinic was made possible thanks to UK-based charity Battersea Dogs and Cats Home to whom Mdzananda is beyond grateful.

“We are overjoyed to be able to make an even further impact in the community,” shared Mdzananda’s Marcelle du Plessis. “This expansion allows us to extend our reach and improve the well-being of even more animals in Khayelitsha.”

Sources: Supplied; Mdzananda Animal Clinic 

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Now, it is not every day you get to stumble upon a majestic Southern Elephant Seal in KZN! Local beachgoers were thrilled to encounter this gentle giant, who seemed to be enjoying some R&R under the sun.

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (14 October 2024) – A rare and unexpected visitor – a juvenile yet very robust Southern Elephant Seal swam ashore at Rocky Bay Beach on the KwaZulu-Natal south coast last Thursday, much to the delight and adoration of many local beachgoers.

The uShaka Sea World team, led by Senior Aquarist Rob Kyle, Assistant Curator Bilal Limbada, and Veterinarian Dr Francois Lampen, wasted no time rushing to the beach to assist the stranded seal. His strength and location earned him the adorable name “Rocky”.

According to the South African Association for Marine Biological Research (SAAMBR), these seals are not normally found along the KZN coastline, which is about 2,000km from their home.

“Usually, when seals strand on KZN beaches with obvious injuries, they are brought into our rehabilitation facility for treatment, and then released.

“When Rocky was examined on the beach by Dr Lampen, he appeared to be healthy and had possibly hauled out onto the beach to rest after his long swim,” SAAMBR said.

After a thorough assessment, Rocky was given the green light to be released to a quieter beach to continue resting without interruption.

He was also fitted with a flipper tag, which, if seen in the future, will allow the team to monitor his movements and correctly identify him in both the short and long term.

While irresistibly adorable to any animal lover, the SAAMBR emphasised the importance of being mindful that juvenile Elephant seals found on the beach, where they enjoy rest, can be dangerous if approached.

“If you see Rocky on the beach, please keep your distance and allow him to rest. If you are able to see the tag on his hind flipper, please stay at least 5 meters away from him to take a picture and send it to us on any of our social platforms.”

Sources: South African Association for Marine Biological Research

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An orphan, Duiker, who was rescued from a bush fire, has spent many months being cared for. Now, she’s finally gone to her new home, where she’ll thrive in the wild!

Wartburg, South Africa (10 October 2024) — A little Grey Duiker who had a very rocky start has set off on her biggest adventure yet—travelling to her new home.

An orphan who was rescued from a blazing bush fire, the young Duiker has spent over six months in the care of the FreeMe Wildlife team.

FreeMe Wildlife is a wildlife trauma and rehabilitation centre based in Howick, which has been imperative to many rescue and rehabilitation success stories like the African Harrier Hawk, who made a remarkable recovery. Not to mention, they are also the team that helped several tortoises get to go back to their natural home as part of the Tortoise Project.

Regardless of whether an animal has feathers, a shell or little hooves, FreeMe Wildlife is always ready to offer a helping hand. In the case of the little Duiker, her release was a big day for the entire team.

As FreeMe Wildlife explain:

“Grey Duiker particularly make us proud because they are initially, of all the antelope, the most tricky to adjust to hand rearing due to their secretive and highly stressed nature. The team works very hard to care for these orphans and stimulate an environment where they can thrive.”

From coming into their centre at just 2.8kg to growing up into a strong girl ready to take on her new home back in the wild at Fountainhill Estate (an environmental conservation organisation based in Wartburg), the Duiker’s story is now in its most exciting chapter!

Sources: FreeMe Wildlife 

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The St Francis Animal Rescue has had an extraordinary month, dedicated to providing care and compassion to the vulnerable animals of the Sea Vista township.

St Francis Bay, South Africa (08 October 2024) – The past month has been a very busy and rewarding one at the St Francis Animal Rescue, which has a dedicated team of animal heroes who have been working round the clock to care for the most vulnerable animals of the Sea Vista township in the Eastern Cape.

Animal welfare is a tiresome yet very rewarding calling. In September alone, the animal rescue managed to sterilise 12 dogs and two cats, treat 46 animals at the vet, vaccinate 50 dogs and pups, deworm 150 pups and provide essential care to countless others.

Beyond veterinary services, the rescue team also conducted outreach initiatives, distributing pet food and blankets to community members and selling subsidised food through local spaza shops.

These efforts have made a significant difference in the lives of both animals and their owners in the Sea Vista community.

“It’s always a little overwhelming. Dogs jumping and barking, running for joy, fighting amongst one another. Dozens and dozens of little kids, some as young as five, leading the family dog onto the field.

“Puppies in barrows, baskets and boxes to be vaccinated and dewormed. Sick and wounded dogs that need to be treated or ferried to the Humansdorp Vet Clinic. Dogs to be bathed and groomed, not all happy at the prospect.  The best thing to do is take a deep breath, set up your table and get on with helping to improve the lives of the dogs of Sea Vista,” the animal rescue said, reflecting on its unwavering commitment.

Sources: St Francis Animal Rescue

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Not only did epic artist Chris Wevers change the lives of two dogs by adopting them from the Springs SPCA, but he also left the organisation a special gift to celebrate all the other animals on their journey homeward—a new ‘Going Home’ mural!

Springs, South Africa (06 October 2024) — After adopting two dogs from the Springs SPCA, epic artist Chris Wevers decided to give the SPCA a special gift of their own.

Putting his artistic talents to heartwarming use, Chris sat for hours to doll up their wall—creating something of a colourful light at the end of the tunnel in the form of a gorgeous ‘Going Home’ mural!

Filled with galactic spray-painted colours, a handsome cat and an adorable pup, the wall now stands proudly as the place where animals will be photographed with their new owners. Did we mention that Chris finished the whole project in a day?

While it’s a huge reflection of his talents, it’s also a reflection of his heart.

The Springs SPCA were ‘absolutely blown away’ by the result, which will now mark many hopeful and happy moments for the animals in their care. For them, Chris isn’t just an epic artist but an earth angel.

Meanwhile, in other news of animal heroes stepping up, Cape Town teenager Riley Valentine has made good on his birthday tradition of donating gifts to the Animal Welfare Society of SA, celebrating his 13th birthday and lots of dog food with them! 

Sources: SPCA Springs 

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