LEBO MAJANGAZE
Pet Pals is struggling amidst rising costs to care for the surging number of East London’s abandoned and neglected animals.
The donor-funded animal welfare organisation cares for more than 200 dogs and 80 cats, many of which were found abandoned or mistreated.
Pet Pals is a no-kill sanctuary and does not turn away or put down the animals that are brought to them. This is a core belief espoused by founder, Sue Kriel who emphasised that even if the animals are not adopted, they will live on at Pet Pals.
This noble mission is challenged by the steep increases in the cost of food and utilities that have outstripped donor-funding capacity. The large contingent of animals are fed more than 60kg of food daily and are cared for by a dedicated six-man staff. With no government or National Lottery funding, the organisation is urgently appealing to the public for increased assistance to keep their doors open.
Pet Pals chair Tessa Boyd said: “We are different in that we are a no-kill animal sanctuary. If our animals are not adopted, they live out their natural lives with us, which means our biggest costs are food, vet bills, and staff salaries.
“For this as we rely completely on the public. Even a small donation of pet food makes a difference.”
This Mandela Day (July 18), Pet Pals welcomes volunteers, whether it is to walk the dogs or spend time with the cats in their cozy catteries.
“New faces bring joy and comfort to the animals. Every visit heals hearts,” Boyd said.
The sanctuary is proud of the contribution is has made towards improving the state of animal welfare in the city.
Recent adoptee, Duke, came to the organisation in a severe state of abandonment and neglect. He recovered and quickly became a staff favourite.
He was subsequently adopted by East London resident, Peter Smith and the two now share a deep bond.
A positive outcome for animals such as Duke is a legacy that Pet Pals needs public donations in order to further.
Boyd said: “Duke sleeps on the bed, waits for Peter at the gate, and has done so well in training. He is truly our poster boy for rescue success.
“We salute Peter and all owners who give animals a second chance.”
Pet Pals committee member Maryann O’Hagan believes that the local animal welfare landscape would be severely impoverished if Pet Pals was forced to close down. O’Hagan believes the organisation’s focus on long-term care for vulnerable animals sets it apart.
The organisation will be hosting Pet Pals market day on July 27, with stalls, raffles and entertainment. Entry is free, however donations are appreciated.
Boyd said: “We need the public’s help more than ever. Every bag of food, every R10 raffle ticket, every Facebook share matters.”
Pet Pals has food drop-off points in many suburbs, and details can be found on their Facebook page. Kriel said: “If we had unlimited funds, we would build more kennels to help more animals, but until then, we do what we can with the support of our community.”
