Calling On Animal Lovers To Give A Gift That Keeps On Giving : Life Retreat

Give a gift that keeps on giving! Hill’s Pet Nutrition South Africa is calling on animal lovers to give a gift that will keep on giving this festive season, by taking on the Pay-for-a-Spay challenge.

In a move away from possibly over-pampering your pets, consider sponsoring a spay in their honour. And, help prevent an over-population of unwanted pets.

To highlight the crucial need to expand sterilisation programmes, Hill’s is sponsoring the operations of over 400 animals, giving a total of R125, 000 to four organisations around the country – Animal Allies, Pug Rescue, Sidewalk Specials and TEARS Animal Rescue.

In South Africa hundreds of thousands of unplanned, and often unwanted, kittens and puppies are born each year.

The cost of sterilising a pet can be out of reach for many pet parents. Others may be unaware of the staggering numbers of young that unneutered animals can produce. Furthermore, it’s estimated that in just six years, two cats and their offspring can produce over 370 000 kittens. Similarly, over 7 years two dogs can multiply to over 67 000!

“There’s no doubt that spaying and neutering has a considerable and long-lasting impact on animal welfare,” said Carolyn Herrick, General Manager of Hill’s Pet Nutrition. “As part of our continued support for shelters and in addition to the tonnes of food we give each year, we want to help make a long-term difference. And, sterilisation is possibly one of the most effective and affordable tools in preventing animal abuse and neglect.”

One of the beneficiaries of the Pay-for-a-Spay campaign is TEARS Animal Rescue in Sunnydale, Cape Town.

“We see a lot of suffering and despair that could have been prevented if more pets were sterilised,” said TEARS Co-Founder and Director Marilyn Hoole. “Last year we sterilised 2, 034 dogs and cats at no charge. But, in these tough financial times it has become impossible for us to continue offering this free service. Furthermore, we are extremely grateful that Hill’s has stepped in, and is challenging other businesses and individuals to also contribute.

“The massive needs associated with animal welfare can be overwhelming. However, sponsoring a sterilisation for R350 is a simple way to make an immediate impact. Puppies and kittens are cute, but to neuter is cuter! So, please get into the spirit of the festive season with a gift that really matters.”

To get involved in the #HillsPay4ASpay challenge visit http://bit.ly/payforaspay. Also, you’ll find more information and donate towards TEARS sterilisation drive. In addition, you can contact one of the selected shelters direct, to see how best you can support their efforts.