What began as a single anonymous tip-off has spiralled into a national crisis: more than a million chickens abandoned, starving, and cannibalising each other on farms affiliated with Daybreak Foods, a state-funded company.
The animals were left without adequate food, care, or protection – many for days, some for more than a week. Entire flocks were abandoned as Daybreak cited financial collapse and walked away.
But We Didn’t
Without receiving any state funding or support from the company involved, the NSPCA immediately stepped in to relieve the animals’ suffering. The reality was grim: we weren’t there to save lives – we were there to end suffering.
This has been an emotionally and financially overwhelming operation – one that is still ongoing. We are continuing inspections across affected farms and pursuing justice for the cruelty uncovered. We’ve also secured a High Court order to prevent further harm, but the road ahead remains long.
Featured Articles and News
Published on 10 May 2025 by the NSPCA
Published on 6 May 2025 by the NSPCA
Published on 29 April 2025 by the NSPCA
Why We Need Your Help
Your donation will help us to:
- Sustain ongoing inspections at farms still under investigation
- Provide immediate relief to compromised birds
- Assist with the legal process to hold those responsible accountable
- Replenish vital supplies used in this massive emergency response
- Prepare for the next crisis – because we know there will be more
Help us continue. Stand with us as we fight for those who cannot speak for themselves. Be part of the change.
Donate via PayPal
If you have a PayPal Account you can now help us combat cruelty securely from anywhere in the world:
- Reference webmaster@nspca.co.za
- Business name: National Council of SPCAs
- Select the option ‘I’m sending money to family or friends’.
Or simply click the button below:
You can also support our work by donating essential items that help equip our teams for
disaster response. These include:
- Bottled water
- Energy drinks
- Energy bars and non-perishable snacks
- Basic first aid supplies
- Disposable coveralls
- Surgical or N95 masks
In-kind donations can be delivered to:.
NSPCA, 6 Clark Street, Florentia, Alberton, 1449
For the attention of: Communications Unit
Every item helps us stay prepared and protected as we continue to respond on the frontlines.
