Global animal welfare organisation FOUR PAWS has announced an initiative where they will launch a mass sterilisation drive for companion animals in the Western Cape, Cape {town} Etc reports.
The initiative focuses on addressing the ‘overpopulation of dogs in under-resourced communities’ in the province.
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FOUR PAWS has collaborated with Sidewalk Specials, People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA), and Mdzananda Animal Clinic.
They are aiming to sterilise 600 dogs between October 2024 and January 2025 to improve animal welfare and contribute to sustainable population control.
In under-resourced communities, the overpopulation of companion animals, especially dogs, can ‘strain local communities’ and negatively impact animal welfare.
‘With this mass sterilisation drive, FOUR PAWS will address these issues head-on by collaborating with key local animal welfare organisations,’ said Fiona Miles, Director of FOUR PAWS South Africa.
‘This campaign aligns with FOUR PAWS’ broader goal of protecting animals and ensuring humane treatment through preventative measures like sterilisation,’ Miles added.
FOUR PAWS will work alongside the three other animal welfare organisations, with each focusing on specific communities in need to ‘make the largest possible impact’.
Sidewalk Specials will be focused in De Doorns and surrounding communities and will sterilise 300 dogs and cats between November 2024 and January 2025.
PDSA will be operating in Bridgetown and Athlone and will sterilise 147 animals from October to November 2024.
Mdzananda Animal Clinic will perform sterilisations in Khayelitsha, with the aim to sterilise 159 animals from November 2024.
The success of this mass sterilisation drive depends on the support of donors and animal advocates.
With the collaboration of three other animal welfare organisations, the campaign will not only address the immediate needs of overpopulation but will also improve the overall health and welfare of companion animals in these under-served communities.
Each animal that will receive sterilisation will also receive a safe collar, rabies vaccination, dewormer and tick and flea treatment, while some of the dogs will receive a 5-in-1 vaccination.
This is aimed at improving the overall health of the pets and communities. Treatment of any other health issues encountered during this initiative will also be prioritised.
‘Mass sterilisation efforts are vital to break the cycle of overpopulation, particularly in areas with limited resources. By working together, we can improve the welfare of these animals and give hope to communities struggling to care for them,’ said Miles.
‘We invite all animal lovers to support this crucial campaign as we strive to create lasting change,’ Miles added.
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Picture: Supplied
