Our Blog
We discuss all issues relating to animals here. Guest posts are welcome. Email your post to us for consideration.
Pet-friendly holidays in Durban: where to stay, play and dine with your furry friend
Durban, with its warm climate and scenic coastline, is a fantastic destination for pet lovers. If you’re planning a summer holiday at the beach, you’ll find plenty of pet-friendly places that will welcome your furry friend
Hardy, healthy cross-breeds rule!
Cross-breed … mongrel … mutt – dogs with mixed parentage are universally seen as far less desirable and valued than purebred dogs. And yet, they can be just as
lovable, friendly and loyal, with none of the health issues associated with some breeds.
Why does the SPCA charge an adoption fee?
People are often taken aback to discover there’s a fee involved for adopting a dog or cat from our SPCA.
Vaccination schedule for puppies and kittens
Vaccinations are crucial to protect your pets against serious and fatal diseases, some of which – like rabies– can be transferred to humans. And when it comes to protecting your pets against these diseases, it’s a case of the sooner the better!
5 compelling reasons to have your pets sterilised
If you are in any doubt about the need to sterilise your cat or dog, please visit one of the SPCAs or animal shelters across the country. You’ll come face to face with the heart-breaking reality: there are too many unwanted animals and not enough homes for them. This...
Dog bites – prevention and treatment
Dog bites are the most common animal bites treated in emergency rooms across the country. Young children are the most common victims, because they are at a similar eye level to a dog.
Charitable giving is good for your soul – and your wallet, thanks to Section 18A
Did you know that when you make a donation to a registered charity like the Durban & Coast SPCA, you receive a Section 18A Certificate – which you can submit with your tax return to claim a rebate from SARS?
No hot dogs, please
Humans can sweat to regulate body temperature, but dogs can only cool themselves by panting. Those with thick fur or short skulls (brachycephalic breeds) are particularly susceptible to heatstroke
Holiday hazards for mischievous pets
Amid all the festive holiday cheer, it’s crucial to remember that pets may be exposed to unexpected hazards. Read about holiday hazards and keep pets safe this Christmas.
Fireworks Season – no fun for animals
While firework displays are beautiful and exciting to humans, most animals – both domestic and wild – can feel like they’re in a war zone.
What to do if you find a stranded marine animal
Firstly, here’s what not to do. Do not attempt to pick up the stranded marine animal and put it back in the sea. Seals, in particular, will leave the water if they need to rest. Chasing one back into the sea is not only cruel, you could actually kill it if it is no...
Heartbreak of a missing pet – what to do
It’s the stuff of nightmares for a pet owner … coming home to find a gate or window has been left open and your furry friend is nowhere to be seen. They don’t come when you call them, and they’re not hiding in any of their favourite places.
Rabies outbreak – a wake-up call for pet owners and communities
Over the past two years, South Africa has experienced a worrying rabies outbreak across all 9 provinces – including 13 cases of human rabies.
How to teach children compassion for animals
Empathy – the ability to understand and share the feelings of those around us – is one of the most complex emotions. While most children have a natural empathy towards other living beings, some may need to be taught compassion for animals.