| Every animal has basic rights, just as we do as humans. |
| 1. The right to be wanted |
| You can choose your pet, but your pet can’t choose you. Be very sure that you and your family are committed to caring for the animal – for life – before you bring it home. It costs around R3000 per year to keep a small dog – and many dogs live for at least 10 years. |
| 2. The right to be cared for properly |
| Wild animals can look after themselves – but pets depend on their owners to meet all of their needs. This means that having a pet is a big responsibility. |
| 3. The right to proper food and shelter |
All animals need the right kind of food to eat – and fresh water to drink every day.
Protection from the elements is also essential. |
| 4. The right to exercise |
Animals have legs for running, wings for flying and fins for swimming – so to stay happy and healthy, they need the right kind of exercise. The lack of exercise and
stimulation is one of the main causes of behaviour problems in dogs. |
| 5. The right to health care |
| Take your pet to the vet if he’s sick or injured – and remember to have your pet spayed when she’s six months old. Annual vaccinations prevent disease, while parasite control helps to keep your pet free of ticks, worms and fleas. Ask your SPCA or vet for advice on which products are safe to use on your pet. |
| 6. The right to safety |
Keep your dog off the street and don’t get a cat if you live near a busy road. Watch kittens and puppies carefully: they could chew through electrical wires or eat harmful
objects or chemicals that are lying around. Never give human medicines to animals. |
| 7. The right to help when in distress |
If you see a sick, abused or neglected animal, please report it to the SPCA immediately. Chaining up dogs, setting off crackers near pets, not taking them to the vet when they’re sick, teasing animals or not giving them food or water are all stressful – and cruel. |
| 8. The right to be animals |
An animal isn’t a person. It doesn’t understand right and wrong the way that we do. So don’t punish your pet if it does something that comes naturally. Animals respond best to love and encouragement. Reward good behaviour and ignore ‘bad’ behaviour. |
| 9. The right to love and company |
Your pet loves to play and spend time with you. It will also enjoy the company of other animals: two pets can have lots of fun together. Dogs are pack animals; they don’t like being alone. |
Please use the links on the right hand side for more pet care tips. |
