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Thieves get teeth into SPCA
27/11/2006 17:15 - (SA)
Johannesburg - The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in Westonaria, west of Johannesburg, has lost medical equipment and other items after a spate of robberies, the organisation said on Monday.
"There were robberies from October to November," said spokeswoman Lucy Phillips.
"It's hard to express how we feel because we are just so shell-shocked and devastated to find ourselves in this dreadful position."
Medical equipment, an extension ladder, garden equipment, paint and animal feeding bowls and collars were among items stolen.
"You may not think it (the ladder) is vital, but try getting a kitten out of a tree without one," said Phillips.
She said the organisation had bought 40 litres of paint to upgrade kennels.
Safe stolen as well
"Expenditure goes beyond the items actually stolen - which include a lawn mower, vacuum cleaner, all the cutlery and crockery, plus spades and the camera used when cruelty cases are investigated."
She said the SPCA safe which contained the keys to the organisation's cars also had been stolen.
"It's much more than a question of damage. We had to replace all the locks, on the cars as well, as a matter of urgency and that costs money."
A public appeal to replace the lost items or for financial assistance was made.
Phillips said: "It would be greatly appreciated if the spirit of giving extended to helping an organisation that is in desperate need through no fault of its own."
People wanting to help can contact Phillips on 011 753 3959 or 083 654 8195.
- SAPA
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