Guardian Angels sought for 2,000+ animals expected over festive season.
Summer is traditionally the busiest time for RSPCA South Australia, but the organisation's animal care teams were forced into overdrive a bit earlier this year with the surrender of 50 kelpies from a single property just over a week ago.
While a related investigation continues, most of the adult dogs and puppies have gone into foster care until they are ready to find permanent homes and their care costs have already been significant.
"As is standard practise, every one of these dogs had a full vet check when they came in, with some requiring ongoing medical treatment," RSPCA SA CEO Marcus Gehrig said.
"Before being available to adopt, they will all be desexed, vaccinated, have received parasite prevention medication and be microchipped.
"In addition, some of these dogs are undergoing extensive behaviour work ahead of being rehomed, and all these care costs are being covered by donations."
The large intake of canines has coincided with the launch of RSPCA's national Guardian Angel Christmas Appeal, timed to raise funds for the rescue and rehabilitation of animals over summer when demand for the charity's animal welfare services escalate.
"Based on previous years, we expect around 2,000 animals to come into our care this summer," Mr Gehrig said.
"By becoming a Guardian Angel for one of those animals you're helping us to meet all their care needs until they are ready to begin life afresh in a new home."
In the last financial year, RSPCA SA cared for almost 6,000 animals and found new homes for 3,284 animals. There are currently 750 animals in the organisation's care and almost half of them (47%) are being accommodated at the organisation's O'Halloran Hill animal care centre.
