Appeal for help as Uitenhage SPCA runs out of funds, food

THE Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) in Uitenhage is in a desperate situation, with just enough food left for one month and hardly any money in its account.

The society's management committee chairwoman, Elinda Tonneson, appealed to the public and businesses to step in as it needed money for operating costs including petrol, electricity, salaries and other expenses.

"Things are desperate at the centre as we are receiving more animals but no funds to assist them. At the moment, we have about 70 dogs and a number of cats. But thanks to generous donations from the public we have enough food, and we are once again appealing to the public for assistance," Tonneson said.

"We need money for operating costs as we don't just service Uitenhage. We are on call 24/7, 365 days a year, and we go to where we are needed, whether it be Addo or Kirkwood, or New Brighton and Motherwell."

The Schonland Street facility can only provide primary healthcare including inoculations, treatment of small wounds not requiring stitches, and dipping for ticks and fleas. It does not have an on-site veterinarian, and relies on an independent vet.

Volunteer Jessica Palmer said: "Even if you can't donate money, just coming to the centre and helping wash animals or simply interacting with them really helps.

"As we are a very small group of no more than 10 volunteers, any help would be greatly appreciated."

If you would like to assist with a cash donation, the SPCA Nedbank account details are: Acc name: SPCA Uitenhage, Acc number: 2004534192, Acc type: Savings, Branch code: 127716. Alternatively contact Tonnesen on 084-565-3039 for food donations. -