Without mobility, the Parys SPCA can’t continue their life-saving work across four separate communities in the Free State. Backing can help get them on the road again!
Free State, South Africa (23 April 2026) – They’re heroes to the animals in the small town of Parys, as well as the surrounding communities of Vredefort, Helibron, and Koppies.
For years, the Parys SPCA has operated with limited resources but unending compassion. They’re the lifeline for abandoned, injured, and neglected animals who require care, safety, and a second chance.
Sadly, that lifeline was cut off abruptly just a few days ago, when the shelter’s premises was ransacked and robbed in the early hours of the morning.
“In the early hours of 19 April 2026, the society suffered a devastating blow when the premises were robbed.” the society shares. “Despite the losses of valuable items required to carry out our work and damage to our already modest premises, we are deeply relieved that none of the animals in our care—or the dedicated staff who look after them—were harmed during the robbery. That is a blessing we do not take lightly.”
Nobody’s hurt, and that’s a good thing. However, the SPCA has lost their only vehicle to the theft. They now face a devastating setback.
“The shelter’s only vehicle—the lifeline that allows us to rescue animals, transport them to veterinary care, collect donations, and respond to emergencies—was stolen. This is not just a vehicle. It is our connection to the community and our ability to save lives.”
The loss sits heavy with the team of animal heroes, who have just spent months raising money to repair that same vehicle.
“We had fought hard to raise the funds for a full engine replacement, and finally, after so much patience and effort, it was back—ready to serve the animals who depend on us. To have it taken so suddenly, and so soon, is heartbreaking.”
As it stood, the shelter stretched what they had to ensure that animals in need had somewhere to go, someone to rely on. Losing the vehicle cuts off that lifeline entirely.
What do we know about SA’s animal heroes? Compassion doesn’t give in that easily. Instead of admitting defeat, the shelter wants to fight to keep its essential services going.
To do so, they’ll need to raise enough funds to replace their only vehicle. An online crowdfunding campaign has been created, with the hopes that their community and supporters can help rebuild.
We’ve seen the wonderful ways in which people show up for their local SPCA before – with enough backing, getting back up is possible.
“We are now urgently appealing to the public to help us raise R500,000 to replace this essential vehicle. This is a lofty aspiration but we would like to purchase a vehicle that can serve us reliably for the foreseeable future. Without it, our ability to continue our work is severely compromised.”
The campaign was created four days ago. Through the support of community and strangers alike, R8150 has already been raised toward the R500,000 goal that will help the SPCA secure a new vehicle.
Times are tough for most South Africans presently, but the hundreds of voiceless animals who need help can’t fight for themselves. Every little bit counts. Even if donating isn’t possible, sharing the story might help reach someone who can.
“We know times are tough, but even the smallest contribution can help us move closer to restoring what was lost.” the society shares. “Together, we can overcome this setback. Together, we can keep showing up for the animals and the community, and being the voice for the voiceless.”
If you’d like to support, follow this link.
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