Durban – As the winter chill tightens its grip on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, so does the burden on local animal welfare organisations caring for the region’s most vulnerable pets.
One such organisation, 4 Paws and a Tale Rescue in Scottburgh, is appealing for public donations to help fund the urgent sterilisation of dogs belonging to families in need.
“We need desperate help at the moment,” explains Nicky Koekemoer, founder of 4 Paws and a Tale Rescue.
“Right now, we have seven female dogs needing sterilisation, four of which belong to township residents who simply don’t have the means.
“We have another four male dogs and three females at the sanctuary who also desperately need to be sterilised.
“With demands for funds high right now, we are in need of public donations to assist.”
Sterilisation costs R1 500 for a female and R1 100 for a male, excluding vaccinations.
For families living hand to mouth, even reduced costs are far out of reach.
Without intervention, there is the likelihood of unwanted litters born into difficult circumstances.
Nicky explains this is not simply a plea for funds, but a call to prevent a cycle of suffering.
With temperatures dropping and food prices rising, the sanctuary costs have also risen dramatically: “We go through around 30kg of food every day, so alongside the sterilisation costs, any food donations or contributions towards food purchases are incredibly welcome.”
The rescue centre’s charity shop – Tale End in Thira Village – takes donations of quality second-hand goods.
This shop is a vital lifeline, funding food, medicine, and sterilisations for the most vulnerable animals in Scottburgh and surrounding areas.
How the Public Can Help
Donate funds to assist with urgent sterilisation procedures at:
Banking Details
Name: 4 Paws and a Tale Rescue NPO
Bank: FNB
Branch code: 260225
Account number: 63020490023
International Swift Code: FIRNZAJJ
Drop off quality second-hand items at the Tale End Charity Shop, 142 Scott Street, Scottburgh – or come in and support the store.
Donate pet food, blankets, or kennels in good condition to help keep animals warm this winter. Items can be delivered to the Umzinto sanctuary, or contact Nicky on 084 626 5508 to arrange collection.
Adopt a pet in need of a loving forever home.
