"It took us two years to make this happen, therefore I cannot express enough gratitude towards the benefactors that funded our dream," said Heather Church, Chairperson of the Garden Route SPCA.
The boarding section includes eight 'bedrooms', set in a cosy lounge area. Each 'bedroom' has a convenient exit into an outdoor play area. The adoption section next door is equally comfy, with a 'cat safe' play area separate to that of the boarders. A notable addition to the new facility is the isolation unit, to house sick animals.
During her address, Church commended the Mossel Bay Municipality for their ongoing support of the SPCA, but the major thrust behind establishing the new facility was the Garden Route Casino through their Community Trust.
"We are also looking forward to other exciting developments within the next three to four months, as a donation from the Lotto National Lottery will enable us to build new dog kennel blocks.
This is all part of the SPCA's 20-year plan," Church concluded.
After the ceremonial cutting of the ribbon by Executive Mayor, Alderlady Marie Ferreira, signifying the official opening of the cattery, the handful of selected guests seemed to enjoy socialising with the kittens up for adoption as much as digging into the delicious snacks, courtesy of Het Deegmeisje and Lancewood.
"Who would have thought this dream of eight years to become a reality?" commented Vanessa Barnard, spokesperson of the Garden Route SPCA with contentment.
The SPCA also thanks Gerbrandt van der Spuy; Premier Landscapes; Jakkalsvlei Private Wine Cellar; Joan's Florist; Liqourland and Bridal & Party Goods.
The guests attending the opening of the SPCA's new cattery enjoyed socialising with the kitties up for adoption. Here are Executive Mayor, Alderlady Marie Ferreira, Robin Seabrook, General Manager of the Garden Route Casino, and Heather Church, Chairperson of the Garden Route SPCA.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOS: CORNELLE CARSTENS, MOSSEL BAY ADVERTISER JOURNALIST
