Mass sterilisation campaign for Atlantis animals. Photo: Provided

The City of Cape Town has allocated R625 302 for a mass sterilisation campaign of cats and dogs in Atlantis. The amount will cover the sterilisation of 1 436 cats and dogs.

The City of Cape Town started to fund mass sterilisation in 2013. To date, it has made available nearly R2,2 million in funding to help sterilise more than 6000 dogs and cats in Atlantis, Dunoon, Brown’s Farm in Philippi and Khayelitsha.

The Cape of Good Hope SPCA, African Tails, CVC, Animal Rescue Organisation, People Dispensary for Sick Animals and Four Paws are involved with the project. Alongside the free sterilisations, animals will be given free rabies vaccinations, sponsored by the Department of Agriculture. The City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security; and Social Services, Alderman JP Smith says, “‘There are far too many stray animals roaming our streets and suffering unnecessarily. Initiatives like these not only make for healthier pets and reduces the risk of spreading disease, but it also contributes to managing pet populations.”

Staggering statistics
Cats are 45 times as prolific as humans and dogs 15 times as prolific as humans.  Sterilising just one female cat will prevent 370,000 unwanted kittens over six years. Sterilising just one female dog will prevent 67,000 unwanted puppies over a period of six years.