The management of the SPCA Louis Trichardt has reviewed its process for the collection of stray animals by owners to ensure compliance with the rules set out in the NSPCA Operations Manual.

According to Lesley Gaigher of the local SPCA, the Makhado Municipal by-laws state that the interim period for stray animals is five (5) consecutive days. “This means that animals brought to the SPCA Louis Trichardt legally become our property and responsibility after five days. If owners fail to claim their pets before the stray period expires, they will need to follow the complete adoption process in order to re-claim their animals,” said Gaigher.

Gaigher stated that owners attempting to claim their stray animals within the pound period will need to provide a copy of their identification, positive identification of the animal they wish to collect, and do so in person. “The owner must complete and sign the claim section on the back of the admission form and pay the pound fees, calculated per night spent in the kennels,” said Gaigher. She added that they would charge the same rate as their boarding fees, which is R60 per dog per day and R50 per cat per day.

“Before the animal may be released, suitable identification must be provided in the form of a microchip or an ID disc with a collar. Both can be purchased at the SPCA. The cost of a microchip is R150 per unit. ID discs can be purchased for R50, but the prices of collars vary, based on brands and sizes,” said Gaigher.

In addition, stray animals will also have to be vaccinated against rabies at a cost of R20 per animal, unless the owner is able to provide proof in the form of a complete vet card showing the most recent vaccination. “The Animal Diseases Act (Act No. 35 of 1984) states that owners of dogs and cats must have their pets vaccinated against rabies between the ages of 3 and 7 months, then 12 months later and then again once every 3 years thereafter; however, it should preferably be done annually as we live in a high-risk area,” said Gaigher.

Because of the new rules requiring additional administration, collections will only be allowed during office hours, which are weekdays between 08:00 and 17:00, and Saturdays between 08:00 and 13:00. These changes came into effect on 14 June.

“We do realise that these changes will take some time to get used to, but it has been pointed out to us that we’ve been way too lenient when it comes to stray animals. We hope these rules will urge owners to become more responsible, ensuring that their animals do not roam the streets. Our main concern will always be the welfare of the animals, and keeping them safely in their yards should be made a priority by their owners. We thank you in advance for your cooperation,” said Gaigher.