Jagersfontein
Photo Credit: Bloemfontein SPCA

A tragic disaster has left the community of Jagersfontein under layers of mine waste; the Bloemfontein SPCA has been to the community to save the animals.

 

Jagersfontein, South Africa (13 September 2022) – On the 11th of September 2022, a dam wall in Jagersfontein broke and washed away parts of the community. The dam was used as waste storage from a local, disused diamond mine. When the wall broke, it sent a wave of grey sludge and mud through the community.

South Africans have rallied to offer support, and many have been asking about what is being done for the animals affected by the disaster.

The Bloemfontein SPCA has been on the ground to save as many animals as possible. They are taking in any animals found, making sure they are safe, dry and fed. They are working alongside neighbouring SPCAs, including Kimberly and Virginia.

“Devastation, Destruction, Despair.
Words fail to exactly describe the crisis unfolding in front of our eyes.

Nothing could really prepare us for the tragedy that took place. We were joined by Virgina SPCA and Kimberley SPCA.”

“So many people and animals were unable to escape the force of the mud and water that overwhelmed the small community in a matter of seconds. No time to escape, no time to even attempt to take anything with you.

As our Inspectors, Field Assistants and officers made our way through the tons of mud, desperate animals in despair were omnipresent.

We stopped at nothing to help them. They were all just too tired and too exhausted and surrendered themselves into the arms of our team.

Sadly so many already succumbed, especially wildlife. The numbers and devastation unthinkable.”

The heartbreaking update from the SPCA left us in tears. As sad as this disaster has been, seeing the helpers step forward to help is equally uplifting. The Bloemfontein SPCA has already helped over 200 animals, and the count rises each day.

They are also offering safe space for families to drop off pets and livestock while fences and homes are rebuilt.

“Many of the scenes are upsetting. Keep in mind that on the other side of the screen it is experienced differently, and that on this end it is real time, and intensely emotional. We do make use of body cams to bring to you the result of your investment.

Today was difficult. We mostly entered the abandoned homes to find so many animals trapped in despair. We don’t blame or judge, we act. Nobody knows how the people in this situation were affected by this unexpected and brutal tragedy. Our hearts go out to the ones that brought their animals to us for safekeeping, because their homes are not damaged, they are gone. Vanished.

We would like to acknowledge and thank our colleagues from Virginia SPCA and Kimberley SPCA that didn’t hesitate to get down and dirty with us in our rescue mission.

Thank you from the bottom of our heavy and tired, yet grateful hearts, for every person that has already sent support, that keep us motivated and wrap us with love in thoughts.”

Should you wish to support the team, reach out via Facebook here, or via their donation methods below. You can also follow the page for updates about the animals being rescued.

Bank details:
Bank: ABSA
Account name: BFN Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
Account number: 927 910 2644
Branch code: 632 005
Savings Account
Reference: Jagersfontein

Or You can send an SMS to 42646 with the word Bloemspca. (SMS cost R30)

Or visit the website www.bloemfonteinspca.co.za and click on the donate button to do an easy payment – reference Jagersfontein

“Thank you to you the supporters that help us when we and an animal need help! We appreciate all your support.”


Sources: Bloemfontein SPCA
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About the Author

Tyler Leigh Vivier is a writer for Good Things Guy.

Her passion is to spread good news across South Africa with a big focus on environmental issues, animal welfare and social upliftment. Outside of Good Things Guy, she is an avid reader and lover of tea.

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