SPCA Tshwane: COVID-19 and your pets / we’re still available
The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) Tshwane would like to sensitise the public about misinformation regarding animals, and the COVID-19 virus.
‘It has come to light that misinformation relating to the virus is being circulated widely, implying that domestic animals is the source of transmission – which is not true, as cats and dogs are not carriers of this virus. Transmission is from person to person through coughing, sneezing, or exhaling’, says Elsa Daniels, spokesperson for SPCA Tshwane.
The SPCA Tshwane urges pet owners to rather research information from a reliable source, such as World Health Organisation (WHO). According to the Organisation, there is no evidence that a dog, cat or any other pet can transmit the COVID-19 virus. The virus is mainly spread through droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks. Domestic animals are not the source of transmission of the COVID-19 virus.
We implore the public to refrain from abandoning, dumping or discarding of their pets” says Daniels. ”Should you not be able to take care of your pet(s) anymore, rather surrender them to the Society”.
SPCA Tshwane is a essential service – a dedicated team will remain on site for duration of lock-down.
“In the light of the President’s announcement of the three weeks lockdown, the management team of the SPCA Tshwane has activated a plan of action, to deal with the virus” says Dewald Wahlstrand, General Manager of the SPCA Tshwane, Waltloo Branch. We are working closely with the City of Tshwane Disaster Management Department to ensure the safekeeping of animals.”
“The SPCA Tshwane Inspectorate department will still be operating, as they are an essential service to animal welfare. They will continue to be available to attend to animals and investigate cruelty cases”, said Wahlstrand.
The SPCA Tshwane is taking measures to ensure that we have enough pet food stock. If you wish to donate pet food before lock-down, please liaise with the respective branch to ensure timely delivery.
Further arrangements are in place for essential staff to remain at the respective branches during lock-down to ensure that we can accept all surrendered animals and continue to provide services to the animals in their care. All the necessary protocols will be followed.
During lock-down, only limited services will be available at both branches:
- Accepting stray animals
- Accepting surrendered animals
- Veterinary life-threatening emergencies only
- Inspector response to animal cruelty
Please support our work by making a financial contribution.
We anticipate a steep influx of surrendered animals and are bracing for additional expenses related to increased biosecurity measures (disinfectant, facemasks etc), personnel overtime, veterinary expenses, temporary staff live-in costs, and an increase in Inspectorate travel costs to respond to animals in distress.
The SPCA Tshwane therefore calls on the public to assist us financially by making a once-off or recurring donation to assist us during the COVID-19 lock down. Donations can be done securely online at https://spcapta.org.za/donate-now/ select COVID-19 support, or directly into the SPCA
Tshwane bank account:
SPCA TSHWANE
First National Bank
Current Account: 56160007452
Branch Code: 261550
Reference: COVID-19 support
SPCA Tshwane is a registered Public Benefit Organisation with Section 18A status and all bona fide donations qualify for an 18A tax certificate and can be deducted from the donor’s taxable income.
The SPCA Tshwane wishes to thank you for your loyalty and continued support!
Please note our contact numbers during lock-down:
Waltloo Branch Centurion Branch
Tel 012 – 803 5219 Tel 012 – 664 5644
Emergency Telephone Number Emergency Telephone Number
(After hours) (After hours)
083 453 3863 082 807 5671
Email address for general enquiries: admin@spcapta.org.za