Cape of Good Hope SPCA Brave Flooded Homes to Rescue Stranded Animals

Photo Credit: Cape of Good Hope SPCA

Cape of Good Hope SPCA heroes are wading in waist-deep water and catching lifts on jet skis to effect rescue operations of animals stranded by the flood.

Cape Town, South Africa (26 September 2023) – Another group of heroes and helpers working to rescue those affected by the Cape Floods is the Cape of Good Hope SPCA inspectors. They are braving dangerous conditions and freezing weather to save as many animals as possible.

The Cape of Good Hope SPCA shared a statement about their efforts to save as many animals as they can reach.

‘A level 9 orange warning was issued by the South African Weather Service for the Western Cape before heavy rain moved over the country at the weekend. A cut-off low system that intensified on Sunday, lead to widespread thunderstorms and strong winds. Reportedly, more than 120mm of rain fell in some areas. Gale-force winds were experienced, and temperatures dropped, falling 10C below the seasonal average.

The torrential rain that struck over the weekend led to extensive flooding in various communities, including Shukushukuma, Sir Lowry’s Pass Village, Rasta Camp, Riemvasmaak, 7de Laan in Sandvlei, Macassar, Old Faure Road in Driftsands, Mfuleni, and Bellville South. The Cape of Good Hope SPCA has launched a massive rescue operation in response to the devastating floods that have wreaked havoc across informal settlements in Cape Town, leaving numerous families stranded and countless animals in perilous conditions.’

“We have been working throughout the weekend to respond to the crisis and to rescue and provide essential care to animals that have been stranded and our teams are proactively working in several areas today. We have been on the ground, braving challenging conditions, to rescue and provide immediate relief to the animals who have been caught up in this natural disaster. The situation continues to evolve and we’re awaiting precise numbers regarding the affected animals. We will know more once the team returns from the field” says spokesperson for the Cape of Good Hope SPCA, Belinda Abraham.

The team need support from the community. They have already taken in dogs, cats, horses, chickens and wild animals like chameleons so far.

‘We are calling on the support and generosity of the community, as well as local businesses and organisations, to aid our ongoing efforts.

Financial aid will be crucial to ensuring that we can provide shelter, veterinary care and food for the influx of animals.

As the only animal welfare organisation that responds to natural disasters our role in saving animal lives is crucial at this time. We extend our thanks to the City of Cape Town’s Disaster Response team and other rescue services who assisted us with moving several horses and cattle to higher ground over the weekend.’

To contribute to the SPCA’s emergency flood relief efforts, please visit https://capespca.co.za/donate/ or contact 021 700 4140 or email [email protected] for more details on how you can make a difference.

Take a look at their efforts below.