SPCA's adoption policy leaves woman disappointed over dog's sleeping arrangements
A CHATSWORTH woman has expressed her disappointment after the SPCA denied her dog adoption application due to its sleeping arrangements, raising questions about the organisation's policies
But the SPCA stands by its decision, saying they were “allowed to deny applications if we feel our dogs will be used as guard dogs instead of family dogs like they should be”.
Karissa Moodley, of Hillary, said she handed the pre-adoption form to a receptionist last Wednesday and was then asked where the dog would sleep.
"I responded that the dog would sleep in a kennel outside."
“The receptionist then went through the application and denied my application and the opportunity to view any of the dogs. I asked for the manager but she said her manager would not even view the application,” said Moodley.
She said she always had dogs, especially rottweilers, so taking care of them was nothing new for her.
“I absolutely love dogs, especially rottweilers. I had two at my parents' home before I moved out and got married."
She said she left the office and continued to make inquiries.
"An inspector got back to me. According to him, it was a rule across all SPCAs that dogs must sleep inside. Their website says "a dog that sleeps inside the house is more likely to be a better protector than a dog that sleeps outside'.
“I never said I wanted a guard dog. They assumed I wanted a guard dog. I already have dogs and they are not guard dogs. They are well-loved family dogs."
With regard to a dog's sleeping arrangement, the Amanzimtoti SPCA website states: “Sleeping inside - A blanket placed in a basket or a box on the floor will be suitable.
"Sleeping arrangements for puppies are non-negotiable. They sleep inside the house (by the way, a dog that sleeps inside the house is more likely to be a better protector than a dog that sleeps outside).
“Sleeping outside - A raised waterproof kennel, with bedding and minimal exposure to the elements is essential."
She said her husband and her decided to test the system.
Her husband went to the SPCA offices the following day to fill out a pre-adoption form stating the dog would sleep inside.
"However, his application was also denied. The reason we were given was 'what will you do in an emergency situation?'. Before he could answer, she already made up her mind. There seems to be a different issue here. We don’t feel it’s about the dog's safety,” said Moodley.
She said she then contacted the National Council of SPCA.
"The KZN regional manager, Mary Ann, heard my plea and said I should email the complaint.
"I am extremely unhappy but mostly disappointed by the decision of the Amanzimtoti SPCA. This was extremely unfair as my application and my husband's separate application were declined at reception before a premises inspection."
Tracey Girling, the manager of the SPCA in Amanzimtoti, said every SPCA was allowed their independent rules.
“We are allowed to deny applications if we feel our dogs will be used as guard dogs instead of family dogs like they should be. We advocate for dogs and they deserve a loving home with attention, not being tied outside alone. We don’t want our dogs to be on guard. We want them to be part of the family,” said Girling.