Surrendering a pet is never an easy decision. At the Durban & Coast SPCA, we understand that circumstances can change, making it difficult for some pet owners to continue caring for their animals. However, it is crucial to understand the legal implications of surrendering a pet to the SPCA.
What are the implications of surrendering a pet?
When you bring your pet to the SPCA and sign the surrender agreement, you are legally relinquishing ownership of the animal. This means that you no longer have any claim to your pet once you have handed it over. The SPCA becomes the legal owner, and will make decisions in the animal’s best interests regarding its future. This could include euthanasia, if necessary.
Unfortunately, many people surrender their pets and later regret it, returning to demand their animal back. But once an animal has been signed over, the SPCA is under no obligation to return it. So, the decision to surrender a pet should never be made lightly.
What about stray pets that end up at the SPCA?
The Durban & Coast SPCA is the official Municipal small animal pound for eThekwini. That means members of the public can bring stray animals to us or report them to our inspectorate, who will collect them.
We are legally obligated to keep all strays for seven days, during which time the rightful owner can claim their pet. However, if the stray has a disease that may be transmitted to other healthy animals in our facility … or is severely injured and in pain … it may be euthanised to prevent further suffering or the spread of infection.
All strays undergo a veterinary health check, at which time we also check for a microchip or any identification that could help us locate the owner. We also check lost pet reports to see if there is a match.
After seven days, if the owner has not come forward to claim their pet, the SPCA becomes the legal owner of the animal. If the animal is healthy and sociable, we will place it up for adoption.
Responsibilities of a pet owner
If your dog or cat goes missing, it is your responsibility to search for them. We encourage owners to contact local vets, post ‘lost’ notices on social media, visit our shelter in person, and ensure their pets are microchipped to increase the chances of a reunion.
Once the seven-day holding period is over, you cannot claim your pet back. You may be able to apply to adopt him or her, but you will have to pay the adoption fee, which covers care and food, sterilisation (if necessary) and other costs incurred while the animal was at our SPCA.
Owning a pet is a privilege, not a right. It comes with moral and legal responsibilities. The Animals Protection Act (APA) No. 71 of 1962 allows SPCA Inspectors to take legal action against neglectful or abusive owners. If found guilty, penalties can include up to three years in prison and/or a fine of R120,000.
As a responsible pet owner, you must provide:
- Clean drinking water at all times.
- Proper nutrition to meet the animal’s dietary needs.
- Adequate shelter from harsh weather conditions.
- Regular exercise in a safe, secure environment.
- Veterinary care, including vaccinations and sterilisation.
- Parasite control, such as flea and tick treatment.
- Love and kindness, as animals are sentient beings who feel emotions.
Things to consider before you get a pet
Remember, a dog or cat is for life – and that life could last for well over ten years. You have to be willing to provide for the animal for the rest of its life. Are you ready for:
- Time Commitment – Pets require daily care, exercise, and attention.
- Financial Responsibility – Vet bills, food, and pet supplies can be costly.
- Long-Term Commitment – Pets can live for over 10 years, and their needs should be considered before major life changes like moving.
What to Do if You Can No Longer Care for Your Pet
If you can no longer look after your pet, please bring them to the SPCA. Never give your pet away to someone you don’t know – you could be subjecting them to a lifetime of misery.