The third wave of COVID-19 is underway. Veterinary Clinic and Rescue non-profit organisation (NPO), TEARS Animal Rescue asks the public to lend a hand in helping to feed hungry community pets. The charity already struggles to cope with rescuing a concerning number of starving and homeless animals who suffers from hypothermia.
Hypothermia is a medical emergency that occurs when one’s body loses heat faster than it can produce heat, causing a dangerously low body temperature.
TEARS rescues and treats 1050 animals each month. 60% of these admissions are a result of pet owners no longer being able to afford their pets, bearing in mind that this number was less than 40% two years ago.
“The sad reality is that winter has always been challenging for vulnerable companion animals living in low-income communities. But the knock-on effect of COVID and the loss of income for so many pet owners has made a bad situation even worse. Despite giving kennels, blankets, and additional pet food when these are available, the TEARS Veterinary Hospital reports that they continue to see pet deaths due to hypothermia, exposure to the elements, and severe malnutrition”, says TEARS Operations Manager, Mandy Store.
Despite the animal shelter’s current situation, the TEARS Mobile Clinic continues to rescue many emaciated and homeless animals. Two newborn puppies were saved by the TEARS team from a property in Ocean View after a heavy rainstorm led to the death of three pups out of a litter of five.
“We’re appealing to the public to lend their support by contributing to the Give Warmth Campaign. Sponsoring one bag of pet food for one hungry community pet, for a month, costs R150. This campaign not only raises awareness for the harsh realities faced by homeless animals but by giving to the campaign, supporters are able to create a tangible impact by changing the life of an animal in need”, concludes the TEARS Head of Marketing and Fundraising, Lara Van Rensburg.
Make a difference by sponsoring a bag of pet food through the Give Warmth Campaign. Click here.
Picture/s: Supplied