News
Refengkgotso animals need urgent help amid winter devastation
Animals in Refengkgotso, Deneysville, are facing severe conditions after extreme cold, heavy rain and strong winds caused widespread devastation across the area.
According to the Vereeniging SPCA, its Inspectorate team, assisted by the National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA), is continuing to work through the affected area, where livestock owners and surviving animals urgently need assistance.
Cattle found dead as teams work through affected farms
The rescue teams have reported finding cattle carcasses scattered across the area, while other animals are still alive but require urgent intervention.
The extreme weather has also damaged structures, leaving livestock exposed to the cold and harsh conditions.
Inspectors are helping livestock owners put up shade cloth to create windbreaks for surviving animals. Temporary shelters are also being erected, while damaged structures are being repaired where possible.
According to the Vereeniging SPCA, the response has been made even more difficult by damaged and inaccessible roads. The organisation’s small bakkies cannot reach some areas, forcing inspectors to continue their work on foot from farm to farm.
Despite these challenges, the teams are continuing their efforts to reach as many animals as possible.
Vereeniging SPCA appeals for emergency donations
The organisation is now appealing to the public for practical supplies to support the emergency response.
Urgently needed items include:
- Shade cloth and materials for temporary shelters
- Bales of hay
- Large bottles or containers of drinking water
- Rain jackets
- Gumboots
- Snacks and other practical supplies for personnel working in the field
Physical donations can be delivered to Vereeniging SPCA at 66 General Smuts Avenue in Duncaville.
How to support the Winter Fund
Financial contributions can also be made through the Vereeniging SPCA’s website or PayFast donation options.
The organisation said all financial donations will support its Winter Fund, which assists animals across its service area, including those affected by the disaster in Refengkgotso.
The Vereeniging SPCA is urging members of the public to donate and share the appeal as rescue teams continue working in difficult conditions to provide shelter, warmth and relief to animals that have survived.
Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter, TikTok and Instagram
For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com
