One of East London’s most reliable post-rescue organizations has been forced to make the difficult decision of announcing to the public that they are at full capacity and can no longer take in any more cats or dogs.
The organization has been providing a home, food, and medical attention to stray animals and animals in need since January 2011, but due to unfortunate circumstances of load-shedding and the rising costs of living, it has become very difficult for Sue Kriel and her team to keep up.
“We rely heavily on fund-raising and donations from people and companies around East London.
“These companies have had to pull out because it has become expensive for them as the costs of everything have gone up. Now I have had to cut down on staff because I can’t pay them, which is a big problem for me because I need my six staff members to help me run the place,” said Kriel.
There has also been an increase in wages, which is something that has been stipulated by the labour laws. Kriel maintains that the staff deserves this increase but she is very worried that she won’t be able to pay them.
The organization currently takes care of 200 dogs and 89 cats, and all these animals require food, vaccinations, and sterilizations, along with other medical attention.
According to Kriel, the organization needs about R35,000 to keep its doors open.
“We do make a bit of money from the adoption process and it also takes some of the pressure off because then we know the animals are going to good homes and we have fewer animals to take care of. If we could get R5 from every follower we have on Facebook, we would be safe,” said Kriel.
In order to adopt an animal, one must have a secure yard.
The animal must be part of the family and NOT just left outside.
People must be able to afford to take the animal to a vet if need be.
Dog adoptions cost R1,100, while cat adoptions cost R950 (both costs include vaccinations and sterilization).
For more adoption queries, contact Sue Kriel at 082-850-8935.
