By Emily Setona
KESTELL — Animal welfare activists have raised alarm over the continued use of illegal fireworks, warning that they intensify fear and suffering among animals already living in abusive and neglectful conditions.
Former SPCA inspector and animal activist Gail Foster-Myburgh said fireworks often trigger extreme panic in animals, leading to injuries, escape attempts and stress-related deaths.
“What is just a pretty bang to us is a nightmare to an animal,” she said.
Foster-Myburgh referred to the Fireworks Act 21 of 1956, which prohibits the setting off of fireworks without a permit, stressing that the law exists to protect animals, people and property. She added that the size of the area makes enforcement difficult.
“Due to our very large location, there are many abusive situations. We are two citizens who do our best to educate,” she said.
Her concerns were echoed by long-time Kestell resident and animal welfare volunteer Marcelle Scott, who is widely known in the community as the ‘dog lady’ for assisting animals in distress and working closely with the Bethlehem SPCA.
Scott said animal cruelty in the town is widespread and deeply troubling.
“We are a very small community, but what goes on regarding animals is very, very scary,” she said, adding that abuse cuts across all groups and affects pets, farm animals and strays alike.
She explained that stray dogs, cats and farm animals roaming the town are often severely malnourished or injured, with the SPCA usually issuing warnings before confiscating animals in repeat cases.
“Most of the time, when they come back, the animals are already beyond help,” she said.
Scott highlighted uncontrolled breeding as a major contributor to the problem, often driven by financial motives. She recalled a case where a severely malnourished mother dog and her puppies were eventually confiscated.
“The puppies were put down because they were too weak, and in the end, the mother also had to be euthanised,” she said.
A lack of accessible veterinary care was also identified as a critical issue. Kestell has no local veterinarian, with the nearest services in Harrismith and Bethlehem.
“Most people cannot afford transport or treatment, so injured or sick animals are simply left to suffer,” Scott said.
She cited a recent incident where a dog with a broken leg was abandoned after being hit by a car.
“The dog was in terrible pain. I took it home and contacted the SPCA, but the vet said euthanasia was the only option,” she said.
Both activists stressed that fireworks add another layer of trauma for animals already living under neglect. Loud explosions cause animals to flee, worsen injuries and increase stress in vulnerable animals.
They urged residents to report offenders, comply with the law and take a collective stand against cruelty.
“Animal welfare is everyone’s responsibility,” Foster-Myburgh said.
