Steri-Thon: Saving Lives, Four Paws at a Time
An alarming increase in Gansbaai’s dog and cat population has sparked concern among residents and animal welfare organisations… and for good reason.
You see lone dogs in supermarket parking lots, packs of them on the side of the road, and others rummaging through rubbish bags in your street, not to mention the constant cat operas that erupt in the early hours during kitty breeding season.
Many of them are hungry, sick, or abandoned, left to survive on their own in heartbreaking conditions. Some lucky ones do find loving homes or care, but for most, life remains a daily struggle for survival.
Now, concerned animal lovers are stepping in to offer a solution with Steri-Thon, a project designed to make a real difference in the lives of these vulnerable animals. The project is fronted by Dee Henderson (@FosteringAnimals), Adele Kokt (FirstRand Volunteer), and Sheryll Steyn (Animals@Peace), who joined forces to form Overstrand Animal Action (OAA).
What is Steri-Thon?
For those who haven’t yet heard about it: A Steri-Thon is essentially a sterilisation “marathon” for cats and dogs. OAA, veterinarians, volunteers, and the community work together to provide as many animals as possible with spay or neuter procedures. Along with basic medical care such as deworming, tick and flea control, and rabies vaccinations.
The goal is to humanely curb the growth of the local pet population while giving every living animal a fair chance at a healthy life.
Most important is that everyone in the community is invited to join Steri-Thon, whether they have pets or not.
A Distressing Situation
Let’s take a close look at the consequences of unsterilised pets:
• Puppies and kittens are dying of hunger or from worm infestations
• Puppies and kittens are sold, dumped or killed because they are unwanted
• Mothers are too weak and malnourished to feed their litters
• Males are injured in fights during mating season
• Dogs are being bred for dog fighting
• Dogs are being bred as a source of income
Steri-Thon’s Vision
Remember, it’s not only strays that need Steri-Thon’s help.
Many animals suffer silently because their owners can afford little to no veterinary care.
Together with law enforcement and the Animal Protection Act, the team aims to reduce and hopefully manage the surge of unplanned and unwanted puppies and kittens with its pay-it-forward incentive.
This will help build a healthier, more compassionate pet-friendly community.
What Does Steri-Thon Do?
At each Steri-Thon event, every animal assisted receives:
• Sterilisation
• Deworming treatment
• Tick and flea control
• Rabies vaccination
The project is designed to be ongoing, helping as many animals as possible over time.
How To Get Involved in Steri-Thon
Here are ways you can be involved in the upcoming Steri-Thon:
1. Book a sterilisation appointment for your pet: Call Dee Henderson - 081 753 5868. A strict screening will be done (the animal must be healthy and can not be in heat or pregnant). Terms & Conditions will apply.
2. Contribute to the wish list (cardboard boxes, newspapers, blankets, and old towels).
3. Volunteer your time: Call Sheryll Steyn - 072 808 8145
4. Share information about the event with as many people as possible
Buy a Paw / Sponsor an Animal:
• Buy a Paw: R10, R20, R50, R100, or R250
• Sponsor an animal: R700
Bank Details:
• Bank: First National Bank
• Account Name: Steri-Thon
• Account Number: 6317 588 5591
• Reference: Your Name
The First Event - In Memory of Diego
The first Steri-Thon is dedicated to Diego, a much-loved street dog known around Gansbaai.
Gentle, streetwise, and full of heart, Diego was rescued and had begun his journey to recovery. Sadly, he passed away before he could live the second chance he’d been given.
Diego’s legacy now inspires Steri-Thon. His story and so many others like it remind us why the success of this project matters. Every animal deserves a warm, forever home with loving humans they can call their own.
Steri-Thon thanks you for your kindness and willingness to extend love and compassion to animals in need.
Together We Are One
Steri-Thon is proud to partner with FirstRand Volunteers, EberVet, Xplorio, SAAWIA, Vets@Gansbaai, Ellis Real Estate and all the volunteers who so generously donate their time.
Would you like to become involved in Steri-Thon? Volunteer, donate, or book a sterilisation and leave a lasting pawprint to reduce the spread of disease. As a united community, we can make a difference if we stand together!
