Animals in need of feed

Animals in need of feed

24 September 2013

published by www.thenewage.co.za

South Africa — About 3000 animals, which were rescued during veld fires in Thomas River near Stutterheim, are in dire need of grazing.

And any form of help will be appreciated, according to the provincial Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA).

The fire came after whirling winds on Thursday afternoon, which left many residents homeless in the province. Sixteen cattle were burnt to death and 61 were critically injured in veld fires. The blaze destroyed grazing on four farms, SPCA provincial spokesperson Annette Rademeyer, said.

“The size of each farm was believed to be in the region of 3000ha. The whole place is devastated and there is absolutely no grazing for 3000 animals rescued. Our inspectors were up and about last week to assist livestock injured in the fires in the Thomas River area. The SPCA from Stutterheim, King Williams Town and East London worked in a joint effort to assist as many farmers as possible.”

The Eastern Cape department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform said it had sent its team to assess the situation. “We are currently busy procuring fodder to feed the affected animals. We have also approached the national department of Agriculture for further assistance. We wish our affected farmers to be strong during this painful period,” the communication’s officer, Thozi Manyisana, said.

The SPCA’s national office said its personnel from the National Council were also there. “A call is made for donations until farmers are able to obtain funds to purchase supplementary feed,” the SPCA’s office said.

Donations to assist in the relief efforts may be paid into the Standard Bank account with the reference number: FIRES. The Account name is National Council of SPCAs.