GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - Twenty-five animals were recently surrendered to the Graaff-Reinet SPCA, as owners fear contracting Covid-19 from their pets.

"This figure is increasing daily," Graaff-Reinet SPCA Inspector Hillary Chaplin said on Monday. "Owners cited their fear of contracting Covid-19 as their direct reasoning for surrendering them."

According to her, one unwanted dog was tied to the organisation's gate, one dog was tossed over, and a suitcase of unwanted kittens was left at the gate.

"Abandonment in places other than at the SPCA is also a growing trend," Chaplin said.

"According to the World Health Organisation, there is no evidence that pets such as dogs or cats can be infected with the coronavirus.

Normal sanitisation is still necessary regardless of whether one has a pet or not," Chaplin stressed.

Chaplin urged people not to dump, abandon or surrender their pets because of their unfounded coronavirus fears. "However, our doors will still be open to pets who are unwanted, regardless of these reassurances."

The Graaff-Reinet SPCA said on Wednesday they will continue operating during the national lockdown, by regularly cleaning the animals' cages and feeding them. They were unsure at the time what their operating times would be.

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