From the Dog Box

We felt very upbeat all along about our move to the Springfield site, anticipating that it would herald an upturn for the Durban and Coast SPCA. We expected there would be a gradual increase in visitors as people became aware of our new circumstances. Instead, visitors have been arriving in droves. Many are coming from areas west of the city, and most of them would not have thought of visiting us when we were at Cato Manor. In addition, Springfield Park is a popular shopping area, and we are just a stone’s throw away in an open, safe and attractive place.

There is a totally different atmosphere from the Cato Manor site. While our buildings are by no means lavish, they are pleasant, well-planned and very practical, and the gardens are already losing their ‘just planted’ look.

On the Saturday over the long week-end, people were actually waiting for tables at our coffee shop which is situated near the entrance and next to a tranquil little pond. The coffee shop has, in fact, been doing a thriving business and is already acquiring regular customers in the neighbourhood in addition to catering for SPCA visitors.

The well-fitted hospital and clinic have been extremely busy dealing with general animal health problems, and with a greater number of sterilisations being performed. Sterilisations are of major importance, because the birth of unwanted puppies causes much animal suffering.

Sales of books and jumble have far exceeded expectations. The charity shop is a short distance from the coffee shop, and visitors are finding that there are real bargains to be had. Sales are already reaching well beyond previous levels.

Kennel sponsorship has been truly gratifying, and we are grateful for the generosity that continues to be shown by both individuals and organisations. An advantage is that visitors can actually see the kennels now as they arrive and are drawn to go and take a walk to see the dogs. Although adoptions are still far from what we would like, they are picking up, and we hope that more and more of our animals will be given caring homes as we become more of a feature on the Durban scene.

The cattery is doing well, and more people are adopting cats and kittens than before. The cattery is well placed, and each cat has its own snug sleeping quarters. Our twenty-two yard cats settled down very quickly in their new home. We kept them confined for 48 hours so that they could become accustomed to being in a new environment, and when they were released they behaved as though Springfield had been their home all along.

Staff
It is good to be able to report that staff members are really enthusiastic about working at the ‘new’ SPCA, and that there is a noticeable vibe about the place.
We will have a new inspector, Lisa Lee Roberts, by the time this issue is in print. Lisa will be a welcome and much needed addition to our Inspectorate team.

So things are very positive as we begin a new era for the Durban and Coast SPCA
Our AGM takes place on our own premises at Springfield this year, and it would give us great pleasure to be able to welcome as many members as possible. Please take this opportunity to join us as we begin this new chapter in our history.