It’s facing one of its toughest winters yet as freezing temperatures, wet weather, and snowfall place hundreds of vulnerable animals at risk. The Noupoort Animal Shelter cares for some 225 dogs and cats.

What began nearly 15 years ago as an effort to sterilise as many animals as possible, has grown into a sanctuary that has cared for thousands of abandoned and neglected animals over the years.

The shelter now houses a large number of dogs and cats, all of which are sterilised where possible and vaccinated. Younger animals are sterilised when they are old enough.

“Animal Care isn’t an organisation like your average SPCA or kennels,” said Noupoort Animal Shelter founder Courtney Stassen. “It was built out of necessity more than anything else.

“The cold, wet weather makes it impossible to keep blankets dry, and the dogs really need extra warmth during these freezing conditions.

“We don’t have municipal assistance or land. The shelter was built out of necessity as more and more animals were dumped on us. What we urgently need, is dry dog and cat food, blankets, kennels, and support to keep these animals safe and cared for through winter.”

Just having enough money for food is already a constant challenge. Once donations run out, it’s back to begging and scavenging to keep the animals fed, she said.

Medical care for the animals is another problem, as Noupoort does not have its own veterinarian, which means Stassen has to travel either 50km to Colesberg or 40km to Middelburg when animals require treatment.

Last week, the shelter endured days of cold, wet weather. Snow had started to fall and was blanketing outdoor kennels where dogs are held. Water bowls were frozen over, with the shelter battling these conditions without any electricity.

“The support received from donors and animal lovers over the years has helped keep the shelter going, even during its most difficult periods,” said Stassen.

The SA Weather Service issued a warning for heavy rains, light snowfall, and extreme cold conditions in parts of the country, including the Northern Cape, which may result in hazardous conditions.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame sm

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