A Battle Behind the Gates: Orkney & Klerksdorp Animal Shelter Fights Distemper Outbreak
- Karen Scheepers
- Feb 20
- 2 min read
The Orkney & Klerksdorp Animal Shelter is currently navigating a devastating crisis as a severe Distemper outbreak has forced the facility into a strict quarantine. The situation has reached a critical point, with staff working around the clock to contain the highly contagious viral infection while grappling with the emotional weight of losing animals they have spent months, and in some cases years, rehabilitating. As the shelter remains closed to the public to prevent further spread, the team is calling for urgent community support and responsible pet ownership during this taxing period.
The Emotional and Operational Toll
The outbreak has placed an immense strain on both the resources and the morale of the shelter staff. Described as more than just workers, the caregivers are facing the heartbreak of watching animals decline despite intensive supportive care and medical intervention.
The shelter has implemented rigorous biosecurity protocols, including:
Total Isolation: Separating infected animals from the healthy population.
Medical Management: Administering various medications and supportive treatments to fight the virus.
Deep Cleaning: Constant disinfection of the premises to eradicate traces of the pathogen.
Despite these efforts, the staff reports a low morale as they battle a virus that often defies treatment, leading to an "emotional and exhausting" atmosphere behind the scenes.
The Crisis of Illegal Dumping
A significant hurdle in the shelter's containment strategy is the ongoing issue of animals being dumped at the gates under the cover of night. Management has issued an urgent plea to the public to cease this practice immediately. Placing a new animal at the gates of a quarantined facility does not guarantee its safety; instead, it exposes the animal to a high-risk infection environment and adds further pressure to a team that is already overwhelmed. The shelter is urging the community to exercise compassion and responsibility rather than abandoning pets during this vulnerable time.
Ways the Public Can Assist
While the facility is closed for adoptions and visits, the fight to save the remaining animals continues. The shelter is relying on the "select few" who have stood by them and is seeking broader assistance through the following channels:
Donations of Supplies: Items such as Cat Sand, Tinned Dog Food, Jik, Jeyes Fluid, Dettol, and Hand Sanitizer are urgently needed.
Fundraising Events: A "Shake a Can" event is scheduled for Saturday, 28 February 2026, at St. Michael’s Spar from 09h00 to 14h00 to raise vital funds.
Financial Support: Direct donations can be made via their official website or through their Takealot Wishlist.
Communication: For donation collections or fundraising inquiries, the public can contact 062 723 3130. For cruelty complaints or general office matters, the contact is 074 306 9811.
As the Orkney & Klerksdorp Animal Shelter continues its fight against this Distemper outbreak, the message remains clear: the survival of these animals and the well-being of their caregivers depend heavily on the support and cooperation of the surrounding community. By adhering to quarantine rules and contributing where possible, the public can help ensure the shelter survives this dark chapter and returns to its mission of speaking for those who cannot speak for themselves.
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