The shelter is housing 55 dogs, 16 puppies, and 13 cats. The organisation is appealing for donations of pet food or financial contributions to ensure that no animal goes hungry.

The shelter urgently needs puppy food, dog food, kitten food, and adult cat food in order to be able to continue taking care of the animals in its care. 

In Bloemfontein, the SPCA plays a vital role in rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals in need, ensuring they receive a second chance at life.

“We have a large number of animals in our care,” said Bloemfontein SPCA inspector Lucky Oliphant. "This is because recently, we held an outreach in Bloemfontein, where several animals were surrendered to the SPCA.

“In addition, some animals were confiscated due to infection and neglect, and they have since been taken into our care. At this moment, we are experiencing an urgent need for food because of the high number of animals currently housed with us.

‘We also have to cover medical expenses and make sure the animals stay warm’

“One of the biggest daily challenges we face when food supplies run low is ensuring that every animal is fed and kept healthy. Feeding them consistently and maintaining their health is vital, but it becomes difficult when resources are limited.

“On top of that, we also have to cover medical expenses and make sure the animals stay warm, especially during cold or rainy weather, which adds to the strain on our limited resources.”

In August, the shelter called for residents to support the initiative in several ways, with adoption being the most direct form of impact. Beyond adoption, the society encourages community members to volunteer their time.

Activities such as walking dogs, playing with them, brushing their coats, and helping them socialise, reduce stress, and improve the overall well-being of shelter animals.

“We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has been supporting the Bloemfontein SPCA,” said Oliphant. Although we cover a large area of the Free State, we do our best to assist wherever we can.

“We truly appreciate the community’s ongoing support and encourage them to continue standing by us in our daily efforts to protect and care for animals.”

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OFM News/Zenande Mpame mvh