MOSSEL BAY NEWS - Small-scale livestock and farm animals, including chickens, goats, sheep, pigs and others, play a vital role in food production and community sustainability.
The Garden Route SPCA Mossel Bay branch has said that despite these animals' importance, they are often overlooked in discussions about animal welfare.
"It is recommended that all animal keepers or farmers, regardless of the size of their operation, educate themselves on animal welfare practices, maintain regular veterinary care, and co-operate with animal welfare authorities to ensure the highest standards of humane treatment," said the branch's manager, Elize Goosen.
She said it is essential to recognise that all animals, regardless of the scale on which they are raised, deserve to live in safe, clean and humane conditions.
This includes providing the animals with a clean living environment free of waste build-up and harmful substances, shelter that protects from extreme weather and predators, and access to clean water and a nutritious diet that meets their physical needs.
It also includes the animals having space to move and behave naturally, which supports their mental well-being, and prompt and appropriate medical care to prevent and treat illness and injury.
Garden Route SPCA Mossel Bay’s branch manager, Elize Goosen, does an inspection on a chicken. Photo: Supplied
Goosen also reminded animal owners, whether it be of livestock or domesticated animals, of the five freedoms.
These include freedom from hunger and thirst, freedom from pain, injury or disease, freedom to express normal behaviour and freedom from fear and distress.
"These freedoms are not optional - they are a basic ethical responsibility of anyone who keeps animals in their care. The SPCA plays a crucial role in enforcing animal welfare laws [Animal Protection Act 71 of 1962] and promoting the humane treatment of all animals," she said.
"The SPCA remains committed to upholding these standards and will continue to protect vulnerable animals from harm, neglect and cruelty."
A full look at the five freedoms can be found on the NSPCA's website, www.nspca.co.za. To learn more about the Animal Protection Act 71 of 1962, visit www.gov.za/documents.
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