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Why does the SPCA charge an adoption fee?

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SPCA

Why does the SPCA charge an adoption fee?

Adopting a pet from an animal shelter is one of the most rewarding decisions you can make. Apart from acquiring a new furry friend, you have the satisfaction of knowing you’ve saved their life and given them a second chance of a happy home.

Many people feel that offering to take on the responsibility of giving an unwanted animal a home, shelter and food should be enough. So it can come as quite a shock to discover that there’s a fee involved.

What you get for your money

Although we call it an ‘adoption’ fee it’s not, as you might think, a case of ‘selling’ animals to raise money for the SPCA. It’s actually the heavily subsided cost of ensuring that your new pet goes home with you in the best possible condition. The adoption fee covers the cost of:

  • A full veterinary check-up to make sure your new pet is fit and healthy.
  • All the necessary vaccinations to prevent deadly disease.
  • Deworming and flea treatment to make sure they’re free from parasites that would otherwise end up in your home or garden.
  • Sterilisation to prevent unwanted litters. This applies to both male and female animals, ensuring that your pet can neither produce a litter nor father one.
  • Microchipping – a permanent, non-invasive form of identification that can help reunite you with your pet should they get lost or stolen.
  • An ID disc and collar which provides immediate, visible identification.
  • Good nutrition – your new pet will be handed over to you in peak physical condition, having enjoyed plenty of nourishing food in the weeks and months leading up to their adoption.
  • In certain cases, your pet’s behaviour will have been assessed, and any potential problems pointed out to you so you know what to expect and how to deal with it.

SPCA

How does the adoption fee measure up against the cost of private vet fees?

The SPCA adoption fee is only a fraction of what you’d pay for the same services at a private vet. Vaccinations alone cost more than our fee. And that’s without counting the time and trouble of taking the animal to the vet yourself. Especially if you need to arrange transport.

On top of that, there’s the cost of having the animal spayed or neutered. Please read “5 compelling reasons to have your pets sterilised” to understand why it’s so important not to neglect this responsibility.

All in all, adopting a pet from the SPCA is a really affordable option. And when you think that your new pet will repay you with years of companionship and laughter, it’s well worth the initial investment.

No government funding

Contrary to what some people think, the SPCA is not a government-funded organisation. We don’t get free veterinary supplies or food to help us care for the thousands of stray and unwanted animals that are admitted to our facilities every month. Everything we need to provide loving care and shelter for the animals has to be paid for. And we rely heavily on donations from animal lovers to make our work possible.

Rather than begrudging a very fair charge – when you adopt a new pet from the SPCA, please consider bringing along a donation of pet food. Or make a financial contribution to help provide for all the other furry orphans still waiting for their forever homes.

If you have further questions or comments, please contact our Adoptions Team on 031 579 6500.

Source: Durban SPCA

Fireworks Season – no fun for animals

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Fireworks

Fireworks Season – no fun for animals

While firework displays look beautiful and exciting to humans, most animals – both domestic and wild – can feel like they’re in a war zone. It’s not only the noise, although that is frightening enough to animals with acutely sensitive hearing, like cats. Measuring between 150 and 175 decibels, fireworks are louder than many planes at takeoff (about 140 decibels)!

Add to this the showers of coloured sparks visible in the night air, and the smell of smoke in the air, and it’s easy to see why animals may be frightened by fireworks. They sense danger in the sound, sight and smell of exploding rockets and firecrackers. And since animals – even domestic pets – have heightened survival skills, they will try to escape the danger by running away or hiding.

But it’s impossible to escape the noise on Guy Fawkes night, Diwali and New Year’s Eve. It comes from all directions. And it’s completely unpredictable, occuring without warning at different intervals, so pets can’t get used to it. While some dogs and cats seem unfazed by fireworks, others experience full-blown panic.

This is true of wild animals and birds as well, with consequences we may never see. The sudden bursts of light and noise can disrupt nesting birds, causing them to abandon eggs or hatchlings. Nocturnal animals, like owls and bats, rely on the cover of darkness to hunt and navigate. Fireworks can disorient them, leading to accidents and even death.

Chemicals in spent fireworks that fall into streams and dams can contaminate the water, affecting aquatic life, as well as animals that drink from these sources.

How do we stop it?
Every year animal welfare groups like the SPCA campaign passionately against the use of fireworks with loud bangs. As a result, some fireworks – Indian Kings, Square and Cherry bombs – are now illegal in South Africa. There are also increased regulations around the sale of fireworks.

Children under the age of 16 are not allowed to buy fireworks. And where minors are using fireworks, they must do so under the supervision of an adult. In addition, South African legislation forbids the use of fireworks in public spaces, and they may not be detonated within 200 metres of a hospital, clinic, petrol station, nursing home, old age home or animal welfare organisation. They can only be used in designated areas away from people and animals.

Nevertheless, despite the threat of hefty fines or even imprisonment, these laws are routinely ignored. So if you have pets that are disturbed by the bangs and crackles, you need to take matters into your own hands.

Signs your pet is afraid of fireworks
Dogs may bark incessantly, whine, pant, tremble or try to hide. Fear may also cause them to urinate or defecate in the house. Cats may seek refuge in hidden corners. Both cats and dogs may attempt to run away from the perceived danger, which can result in horrific injuries.

For example, pets that try to escape through windows may be cut by broken glass; dogs attempting to leap over garden walls may be impaled on spikes or razor wire. Others may dash out into the road and be run over by passing cars.

Even if they are not badly hurt, animals that run away from fireworks may lose their bearings and be unable to find their way home. Every year, the Durban & Coast SPCA takes in hundreds of lost pets during fireworks season.

Keep your pets safe when fireworks are let off
As responsible pet owners, we must recognise the signs of distress and provide comfort to our beloved animals.

Try not to leave pets alone on the evenings when fireworks are more likely to be used extensively. If you cannot stay home, make sure pets are contained in a safe place from which they are unable to escape or hurt themselves.

Ideally, keep your pet indoors and with someone. Close windows and draw curtains to minimise sound. Play background music or leave the television on to provide ambient noise to mask the sound of fireworks.

Be sure to ignore the fireworks yourself. Pets are sensitive to your mood and if you jump every time a firecracker goes off, your pet will assume that there is indeed something to be afraid of.

Create a safe space for your pet to hide. Many dogs and cats like to hide under your bed or in a similar small, enclosed area. Put down a padded bed, heavy blanket or stack of pillows to help deaden the noise. If necessary, consult your veterinarian for advice on calming medication or behavioral strategies.

Make responsible choices
Advocate for responsible choices in your community. Awareness can go a long way in reducing the risks animals face during these festive displays. By considering the well-being of all animals, including wild birds and creatures, we can create a world where our celebrations coexist harmoniously with nature.

Source: Durban & Coast SPCA

Pet-friendly holidays in Durban: where to stay, play and dine with your furry friend

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Pet

Pet-friendly holidays in Durban: where to stay, play and dine with your furry friend

Durban, with its warm climate and scenic coastline, is a fantastic destination for pet lovers. If you’re planning a summer holiday at the beach, you’ll find plenty of places that will welcome your furry friend … from beaches to play on, a park to stroll through, or a place to grab a bite with your furry companion.

Pet-Friendly Accommodation

Whether you are looking for a B&B, a self-catered holiday home or a hotel – there are plenty of pet friendly options.

Just head on over to booking.com  to see the many, many choices available. You can compare various options to find accommodation that suits your specific requirements.

Surprisingly, the luxury five-star Umhlanga hotel, The Oyster Box, welcomes pets with open arms. In fact, in true Oyster Box fashion, they go as far as offering a range of pet beds and menus, so your pets can enjoy being pampered and looked after too!

Pet

Pet-Friendly Beaches

Nothing beats a walk on the beach and a dip in the ocean with your furry best friend – in fact, it’s not a Durban Holiday without a visit to the beach.

Whilst dogs aren’t allowed on the main Durban bathing beaches, you can take your pet for a walk (on a leash) along both the Durban and Umhlanga Promenades.

If you’re walking on the Umhlanga Promenade, be sure to keep a look out for the statue of our famous SPCA Ambassador, Humphrey, who sadly passed away earlier this year after raising over a million rand to help stray and unwanted animals. Drop a coin in his collection box and keep Humphrey’s legacy alive.

Dogs on leashes are also allowed on uShaka Beach (near the Aquarium) and Treasure Beach on the Bluff. To give your dog the freedom to run and play on an off-leash beach, try one of these:

  • Beachwood Mangrove Area (Durban North)
  • South of Brighton Beach – (Durban Bluff)
  • La-Mercy Beach (North of Durban)
  • North of Bronze beach
  • North of Westbrook
  • Christmas Bay (North of Ballito)

Just a friendly reminder to always carry bags and clean up after your pet, and to only let your dog explore off-leash if they are well trained and will listen to your commands.

Pet-Friendly Restaurants and Cafés

Pet

Top of the list has to be our very own Coffee Cats Café situated at the SPCA in Springfield Park (2 Willowfield Crescent). Enjoy divine cappuccinos, lattes, great value breakfasts, burgers and light meals in a relaxed open air environment. Plus home baked treats like our famous Oreo muffins! Dogs on a leash are welcome, but they must be cat friendly as our famous Yard Cats call the café home. As does, Lay-la, our pet chicken.

The Bike & Bean: This casual coffee station, right next to the beach is one of the most pet-friendly spots in Durban. Friendly dogs are not only welcome, they are assured of fresh water to drink, and there are special dog treats on sale.

Surf Riders Café: Another popular pet friendly spot on the Durban Promenade, where you can grab a bite to eat while enjoying wonderful views of the ocean. There is a special menu for your furry friend, ensuring the whole family enjoys breakfast or lunch out.

Old Town Italy on Umhlanga Ridge is a firm favourite with locals. You are welcome to bring your dog on a leash, and enjoy a traditional Italian meal in the outdoor seating
area.

Pet-Friendly Parks and Nature Reserves

Pet

  • Durban Botanic Gardens is Durban’s oldest public institution and Africa’s oldest surviving botanic garden. Entrance is free for both humans and leashed pets. You’ll both enjoy the well-maintained walking trails among shady trees and beautiful gardens. Coffee and light refreshments are available from Gourmet Coffee within the grounds.
  • Virginia Bush Nature Reserve: Situated in the heart of Durban North, Virginia Bush Nature Reserve is a peaceful spot where you and your pets (on a leash) can enjoy lovely picnic areas, hiking trails, and bird watching.
  • Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve: With scenic trails and open spaces, this reserve offers a beautiful outdoor setting to explore together.
  • Jameson Park in Morningside: Well behaved and socialised dogs can run free and have a lovely time. It’s the ideal place to take your pooch for some fresh air and exercise, and you’re likely to encounter many fellow dog walkers here.

With all these pet friendly options available, there’s no need to be parted from your beloved pets over the festive holiday season. Bring them with you and explore all Durban has to offer.

Source: Durban SPCA

Holiday hazards for mischievous pets

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hazards

Holiday hazards for mischievous pets

As the festive season approaches, our hearts are filled with joy and anticipation. It’s a time for celebrations, friends and family – including the four-legged family members. But, amid all the holiday cheer, it’s crucial to remember that pets may be exposed to unexpected hazards. Here are some to watch out for:

Holiday decorations hazards

Many Christmas decorations, such as tinsel, baubles and Christmas lights, can be tempting playthings for curious pets. Cats may find shiny, dangling objects particularly intriguing. Unfortunately, if chewed or swallowed, these can lead to gastrointestinal problems.

Sharp plastic or glass ornaments can also cut pets’ gums or tongue if chewed. Make sure they are out of reach, or use pet-friendly alternatives, such as wooden or fabric tree decorations and shatterproof baubles.

Secure the Christmas tree properly to prevent it from toppling over if your pet decides to climb it. Some pets may chew on tree needles, which can be irritating to their stomachs.

On the topic of plants, although poinsettias are traditional Christmas plants, they can be harmful to pets. The stems and leaves contain a milky sap that can irritate your pet’s mouth and throat. Red roses are a great alternative.

Christmas lights can result in a nasty shock if your pet chews on a dangling electrical cord. Keep cables hidden or covered to prevent accidental electrocution.

No scraps off your plate!

Traditional holiday roasts, like turkey, chicken and lamb have bones which should not be given to pets. Apart from the danger of choking, cooked bones can splinter and cause serious internal damage. Without emergency veterinary treatment, your pet could even die if a sharp bone pierces the intestines.

Onions and garlic are commonly used in holiday cooking, but can be toxic to pets. They can cause indigestion, vomiting, lethargy, and even more serious health problems.

Theobromine and caffeine in chocolate can be toxic to dogs and cats. Dark chocolate is especially dangerous. Ensure that all chocolate treats are stored securely and out of your pet’s reach.

Summer fruit is often a staple during our holidays, but please know that grapes (and raisins) can lead to kidney failure in dogs. Avoid letting your pet reach any plates or platters (such as a cheese board) that may contain this seemingly innocent fruit.
Alcoholic beverages should never be accessible to pets. Alcohol can cause poisoning, leading to symptoms such as disorientation, vomiting, and even coma.

Even if you’re aware and careful yourself, you need to make sure your family and guests adhere to rules about not feeding your pets from the dinner table. Instead, provide pet-friendly treats and toys to keep the furry members of the family engaged during the festivities.

By taking these precautions, you will ensure that your pets enjoy a safe holiday season. If you suspect your pet has ingested something harmful, contact your veterinarian or an emergency pet clinic immediately. Remember, a little extra vigilance can go a long way in keeping your furry companions happy and healthy during this wonderful time of year.

Source: Durban & Coast SPCA

Hardy, healthy cross-breeds rule!

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Hardy, healthy cross-breeds rule!

Cross-breeds … mongrels … mutts – dogs with mixed parentage are universally seen as far less desirable and valued than purebred dogs. And yet, they can be just as loveable, friendly and loyal, with none of the health issues associated with some breeds.

Most cross-breeds are often far healthier than thoroughbreds, having inherited genes from other, sturdier breeds. This is especially true in the case of purebred flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds such as Pugs, Bulldogs, Boxers and Boston Terriers.

Brachycephalic Breeds

These dogs have been bred to look more appealing and ‘cute’ to humans. Their round heads, big eyes, short noses and jaws, pudgy limbs and wrinkled skin more closely resemble human infants. But the cuteness comes at the cost of their health – these breeds typically have shorter lifespans than other similar sized dogs.

Their shortened noses and narrow air passages cause breathing problems, making physical activity difficult – especially on hot days, when they are extremely susceptible to heatstroke. Because they get less exercise, these dogs tend to be overweight. Brachycephalic breeds are also prone to eye problems and skin infections if skin folds are not regularly cleaned.

Welfare and ethical concerns arise from breeding these types, with their inherited health disorders. You are likely to spend more at the vet if you own this type of dog. And if you’re looking for an energetic, playful companion who’ll enjoy long walks on the beach and games of fetch, these dogs are not for you.

Africanis

Often dismissed as mongrels or ‘township dogs’, the Africanis is now recognised as a distinct breed, with a lineage dating back at least 7,000 years. Unlike purebred dogs that have been artificially created by selective breeding to enhance particular physical or behavioural characteristics, the Africanis has evolved through natural selection. When left to nature, it is the strongest, fastest and most intelligent individuals that survive, ensuring the breed adapts perfectly to its environment.

Traditionally, these dogs have always lived close to humans, other dogs, livestock and domestic animals. Although watchful, they are naturally friendly and well behaved, intelligent, tough and athletic. Their short coats are particularly suited to our hot climate, and they seldom suffer from skin problems or other ailments.

If your dog has Africanis blood in it, you can expect a strong and healthy companion that is loyal and protective, yet still gentle enough to be trusted around children.

Characteristics of other breeds

Many of the dogs up for adoption at our SPCA are cross-breeds. Which means they have most likely inherited characteristics from other breeds. So, before you choose your new furry friend, it’s a good idea to understand what other breeds may bring to his or her personality.

High energy Dogs

Breeds like Collies and German Shepherds are ‘working’ dogs, bred to herd sheep over mountainous terrain or work as police/guard dogs. If your dog has Collie or Shepherd blood, expect him or her to have boundless energy and a high level of intelligence.

These dogs need a significant amount of exercise (not just a stroll around the block) and activities like agility tests and games to prevent boredom. Without opportunities to work off excess energy and challenge their minds, they can become bored and destructive.

Any dog with German Shepherd blood will also be prone to a condition called hip dysplasia which leads to joint pain, arthritis and loss of mobility as they get older.

Huskies are another working dog breed. Although they are really beautiful, with their thick coats and (often) bright blue eyes, and their strength and endurance are legendary, remember that Huskies have been bred to pull heavy sleighs over vast, frozen distances.

You’ll need time and patience to train a dog with Husky blood to walk beside you on a lead, rather than taking you for a walk – or more likely, a run! You’ll also need a yard with high fences and gates to keep these famous ‘escape artists’ from getting out and running off in search of adventure.

If you’re looking for a calm, quiet companion to lie happily at your feet, those with working dog blood may not be the best fit.

Independent, aloof breeds

Along with Huskies, dogs with Chow Chow genes can be standoffish and dominant. Owing to their thick fur and cuddly appearance, children often see them as life-sized stuffed toys. However, Chows are not innately friendly and if there are small children in the family, it might be best to avoid them.

Another breed that is not particularly good with children is the Chihuahua. Again, their small size and large eyes give the impression that they are timid and gentle. But their size makes it easy for them to feel threatened, and they have a reputation for protecting themselves by snapping at strangers or small children.

Calm, friendly dogs

If you’re looking for a calm, friendly dog that gets along well with children, other pets and strangers alike, aim for a Retriever/Labrador type. These dogs are eager to please, which makes them easy to train.

But, although they’re ideal family pets, they don’t usually make good watchdogs. When strangers approach, they’re more likely to be snoozing or pleasantly surprised.

Terrier types

Energetic and fearless, Terriers make lively companions, always ready for an adventure. They make excellent guard dogs because they’re so alert, and always keen to investigate.

Most terriers are enthusiastic diggers – bad news if you’re a proud gardener – with an inbred instinct to chase, dig out, and kill small furry and feathery creatures.  They are also fearless fighters and prone to quarreling with other dogs.

Choosing the right dog

Familiarising yourself with the natural characteristics of certain dog breeds will help you choose the right pet. But many behavioural problems can be corrected through proper training and socialising with other dogs and people from an early age.

One of the saddest aspects of working at an animal shelter is when you place a dog in a new home, only to have it brought back a week or so later, because its behaviour is unacceptable.

It takes time for a new pet to settle down and to understand your rules. All dogs need patience and kindness when it comes to training – it’s unrealistic to expect new behaviours and habits to form overnight.

Please invest the necessary time and effort to build the right relationship with your dog. You will be rewarded with years of faithful companionship and fun. Visit our website for a selection of dogs available for adoption right now.

Source: Durban SPCA

Pet euthanasia at the SPCA – the difficult choice

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Pet

Pet euthanasia at the SPCA – the difficult choice

Euthanasia is one of the most heartbreaking but necessary responsibilities of the Durban & Coast SPCA.

No one wants to put a healthy animal to sleep. But the pet overpopulation, coupled with a shortage of good homes, creates a crisis that no shelter – no matter how big or well-funded – can manage indefinitely.

The reality of pet overpopulation

Every year, thousands of unwanted pets find their way to the SPCA. Some are unwanted, abandoned by owners who can no longer care for them, whether it be due to financial difficulties, behavioural issues or changing circumstances. Others are strays that are lost and picked up by our inspectorate, or a member of public brings them in. The numbers are staggering … well over a thousand dogs and cats are admitted to our SPCA every month.

Nationwide there are an estimated 4 million homeless dogs and cats.
There are simply not enough cages, kennels, or responsible adopters for all the unwanted animals. Even if room could be found for them all, keeping animals caged for life is not a solution. It is cruelty in a different form.

Pet

What about ‘no-kill’ private rescuers or fosters?

Misinformed people, who don’t understand the reality of the situation, passionately endorse those with a ‘no-kill’ policy. But when these rescuers reach capacity – as they inevitably do – one of two things happens.

Homeless animals are turned away. Desperate owners, seeking a safe refuge for a pet they can no longer keep are told, “Sorry, we’re full”. Or put on a waiting list until a place becomes available. In the meantime, unwanted animals are left to an uncertain fate. They may be abandoned and left to fend for themselves, at risk of starvation and disease.

More and more animals are admitted, leading to overcrowding and horrific suffering. With increasing numbers, the ability to provide veterinary care, nutrition and hygiene is compromised. Long-term incarceration can lead to animals becoming withdrawn, depressed and/or aggressive due to lack of freedom and human interaction. Sick and suffering animals are not put out of their misery. They are left to endure the most miserable existence.

Pet

This is unacceptable to the SPCA movement, as it should be to all who care for animals. Compassion alone is not enough; we also need the courage to do the right thing, no matter how unpopular or personally hurtful we find it.

We are not alone in this view. People for Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), the world’s largest and most influential animal rights organisation, holds a similar view.

When is euthanasia considered?

Euthanasia is not a decision made lightly. The SPCA follows strict ethical guidelines to ensure that animals are only euthanised when absolutely necessary, for example when they are:

  • Severely ill or injured: If an animal is suffering from an untreatable condition that causes extreme pain or distress, euthanasia is the kindest option. Or if they are harbouring a disease which could infect and be fatal to other animals in our care.
  • Aggressive or dangerous: Some animals, often due to past abuse or neglect, exhibit behaviours that make them a risk to humans and other animals. If rehabilitation is not possible, euthanasia may be the only humane option.
  • Unadoptable: When an animal has been waiting for a home for an extended period, has been passed over repeatedly, and is deteriorating mentally and physically due to prolonged confinement, euthanasia may be considered to prevent prolonged suffering.

A humane end vs. a life of suffering

We understand that the thought of euthanasia is painful. But consider the alternative. An unwanted animal released onto the streets faces hunger, disease, injury, and abuse. Packs of stray dogs become a danger to communities. Feral cats produce more and more offspring, leading to ongoing suffering.

Euthanasia, while heartbreaking, is sometimes the kindest choice. It ensures that an animal is spared a life of misery, neglect, and suffering.

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What you can do to help

The solution to this heartbreaking problem lies not in judgment or criticism, but in action. Here’s how you can make a difference:

  • Spay and neuter your pets to prevent unwanted litters.
  • Adopt, don’t shop. Give a shelter animal a second chance at life.
  • Educate others about responsible pet ownership.
  • Support the SPCA through donations or volunteering.

No one at the SPCA takes euthanasia lightly. The veterinarians and staff who perform this difficult task do so with heavy hearts, driven by compassion and a desire to prevent further suffering.

We all share the same goal: a world where every animal has a loving home. Until that day comes, the SPCA will continue to fight for the welfare of every animal, making the hard choices when necessary and working tirelessly to find lasting solutions.

If you want to be part of the solution, consider supporting the SPCA in any way you can. Together, we can reduce the number of unwanted animals and create a future where euthanasia is no longer necessary.

Source: Durban SPCA

Monkeys matter – how to co-exist peacefully with our wildlife

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Monkeys

Monkeys matter – how to co-exist peacefully with our wildlife

In Durban and surrounding areas, vervet monkeys are a familiar sight. While some residents enjoy watching their antics, others see them as a nuisance – especially when they invade homes, raid kitchens, or scatter rubbish across the yard. But harming any animal is not permitted and can lead to cruelty charges under the APA.

We built in their home

Vervet monkeys are not pests. They are wild animals adapting to survival in an urbanised world. As humans continue to expand into natural habitats, wildlife such as monkeys are forced to adapt. They don’t understand property lines or neighbourhood rules. They are simply doing what any creature would: searching for food and shelter for themselves and their young.

We urge the public to show compassion and patience. Wild animals deserve respect and kindness, even when their behaviour may be inconvenient. Instead of blaming the animals, we encourage you to take simple preventative steps to discourage unwanted monkey visits.

Never, ever feed monkeys – or any other wildlife

All wild animals are opportunistic by nature, and will choose food that is easily available over that which takes more time and effort to find. Many kind-hearted people feel obligated to provide food for the monkeys, believing that humans have destroyed their habitats and that, without help, they would not survive.

In fact, many suburban gardens offer a plentiful supply of natural food – including fruits, berries, leaves and young shoots, bark, flowers, bulbs, roots, and grass seeds. Although mainly vegetarian, vervet monkeys also eat insects, baby birds, birds’ eggs and grubs.

They really are quite capable of finding sufficient food for themselves!

Feeding wildlife not only encourages dependence, but can also lead to unnatural or aggressive behaviour. Monkeys that associate humans with food are less likely to keep their distance, and may well get bold enough to snatch a sandwich from your child’s hand.

Peaceful co-existence is the goal

Here are some practical tips to reduce conflict without hurting monkeys.

  • Keep food out of sight – especially near open windows, kitchen counters, or tables. Once they become aware that there is food in the house, they will try to get it.
  • Secure your bins with tight-fitting lids or place them inside a monkey-proof enclosure.
  • Monkey proof your home by installing netting, insect screens or burglar bars to prevent them from gaining entry. If you find a monkey in your house, make sure it can escape without being cornered.
  • Protect vegetable gardens with wire fencing, including a roof, to keep monkeys out.
  • Train your dogs not to chase or bark at monkeys. A cornered monkey can inflict severe injury. Rather call your dogs to sit beside you or take them inside while the monkeys are in your garden.
  • Avoid leaving dog food outside all day.

When monkeys find no reward, they are far less likely to return.

No excuse for cruelty

Whilst some people feel frustration when monkeys cause damage or mess, cruelty is never the answer. If you need to deter monkeys, try spraying them with water from a hosepipe or water spray bottle.

The Durban & Coast SPCA is opposed to the manufacture, sale and use of all snares, traps, harmful substances, or any method of animal control that causes pain, suffering or distress. Harming a monkey – or any animal – is not only unethical, it is also against the law.

All animals are protected under the Animals Protection Act (APA) No. 71 of 1962, which recognises that animals are sentient beings capable of feeling pain and distress. Violations can result in fines of up to R120,000 and/or three years in prison.

Is cruelty towards monkeys a problem in Durban?

Sadly, yes. Whether through intentional harm or negligent behaviour, animal cruelty remains a persistent issue we deal with every day – and monkeys are no exception. The SPCA continues to advocate for justice for all animals and is committed to educating the public about humane, effective ways to coexist with wildlife.

Please report cruelty

If you see someone hurting a monkey or any animal, or come across a snare or trap, please report it immediately. You can reach us on 031 579 6501.

Together, we can create a community that values every creature – wild or domestic – and strives to live in harmony with the animals who share our environment.

Source: Durban SPCA