This Week at the NSPCA

This week, we continued to honour Nelson Mandela’s legacy with our powerful art campaign in partnership with South African watercolourist Mareli van Zyl. Each painting, inspired by animals rescued from cruelty, reflects the resilience of those who’ve suffered and the hope our work continues to bring. All artworks are for sale, with proceeds supporting our work.

We also reported on a distressing case in Mahikeng, where a goat was brutally attacked. The suspect has been arrested, but the incident is a stark reminder of the link between animal abuse and violence.

Lastly, we spotlighted our ongoing efforts to protect working donkeys, the stoic, loyal, and hardworking heroes in many communities across the country, through our dedicated Working Donkey Welfare programme.

Join us we look back on the week that’s past!

#ItIsInYourHands

On 18 July, South Africa celebrates one of its most iconic and inspirational leaders, Mr Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela. Mandela was the Patron-in-Chief of the NSPCA for almost twenty years, and often spoke about his vision for a more compassionate world for all.

This year, we celebrate Madiba’s legacy in a unique and moving campaign, thoughtfully curated to showcase several rescue stories that the NSPCA has been involved with over the years.

We have partnered with South African watercolour artist Mareli van Zyl of Art by Mareli for this powerful campaign, which is inspired by the resilience and strength of animals subjected to cruelty and abuse. Despite their suffering, these animals, from lions and donkeys to vultures and dogs, have shown how compassion and hope can prevail over pain and darkness.

Each piece is available for purchase, with all proceeds going directly to support the NSPCAs’ critical work to prevent cruelty to animals. This campaign captures the spirit of Mandela Day: justice, compassion, and change. Stay tuned for an exciting surprise reveal on 18 July!

The Fatal Consequences of Unwarranted Cruelty

It’s often difficult to grasp the cruelty inflicted on innocent animals, often simply for existing. Recently, our Special Projects Unit was shocked by an incident that occurred in a small village outside Mahikeng, in the North West.

Angered by the presence of a neighbour’s goat on his property, a resident took his frustration out on the defenceless animal. The goat was beaten so severely that his eyes were dislodged from their sockets. His injuries were so extreme that our Inspectors had no choice but to humanely end his suffering.

One wonders what drives a person to such vicious brutality? Thankfully, the suspect was arrested and remains in custody.

While we could not save this goat from a senseless and painful death, we remain steadfast in our mission to prevent others from enduring the same fate.

👉 Donate here to support the crucial work done by our Special Projects Unit.

Your Voice on Social Media:

  • “Please get justice for this poor creature.” — Facebook/Lesley Halkett
  • “My heart is breaking! 😢.” — Instagram/@sammyack89
  • “Thank you SPCA and inspector Moseki!!! I will support you and your cause forever and ever. Thank you for protecting the innocents and voiceless”— Facebook/Zetti Malan

Photo of the Week

Bobby, the dog rescued after a viral X post exposed her neglect, was recently treated to a well-deserved spa day!

We Continue to Fight For the Welfare of Working Donkeys

In many communities across our country, countless donkeys are serving residents by pulling carts, carrying heavy loads, and drawing equipment for farming. In most cases, these communities rely on donkeys for their livelihoods.

Sadly, while donkeys are hardy, trustworthy, and affordable, they are not often treated with the care and compassion they deserve. Many donkeys are subjected to gruelling working conditions, and are overworked, neglected, and sometimes even abused.

However, our Working Donkey Programme is always ready to step in to change that. Our Inspectors are on the ground conducting outreaches, education, and direct interventions to protect these hardworking and silent labourers. We treat injuries, confiscate abused animals, and train owners in humane care.

Interested in reading more about how we safeguard donkeys across the country? Have a look at our 2024 Annual Report for more.

That’s a wrap for this week’s Week in Review! If these stories resonated with you, check out the full articles and join the conversation on our social media pages.

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Your support helps us continue making a difference for animals – whether by sharing our updates, raising awareness, or donating to our cause. See you next Sunday for another Week in Review!

If you are as passionate about animals and their well-being as we are, consider supporting our causes by donating.

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Will You Be the One Who Takes Action?

Most people will scroll past this. But will you be the one who stands up for animals?

Animal welfare isn’t always in the spotlight, but it changes lives – for every neglected, abused, or suffering animal we help. Our teams work tirelessly, often behind the scenes, ensuring animals across South Africa are protected.

This work is relentless. The challenges are immense. But with more hands, hearts, and resources, we can do even more.

The equation is simple: the more supporters we have, the greater our reach, the stronger our impact.

Be part of the change. Become an NSPCA Project Partner today. From just R50 per month, you can help ensure that no animal suffers in silence.