Cape of Good Hope
We speak for, protect and care for animals
142 years of caring for animals With new plans on the horizon Mutt & Meow of the Year Meet our 2014 winners
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Back to the Wild
A busy year in pictures
ISSUE 2, 2014
Cape of Good Hope
Letter from THE EDITOR
ISSUE 2, 2014 EDITORIAL BELINDA ABRAHAM WANIKA DAVIDS PO Box 3, Plumstead, Cape Town, 7801, Tel: 021 700 4141 Fax: 021 705 2127 Email: comms@spca-ct.co.za Website: http://www.spca-ct.co.za COVER A young Cape Fox cub photographed by Gareth Pettersen DESIGN JOAN SUTTON 021 712 0101 PRINTING SPONSORED BY FORMESET 021 507 9000 Footprints is published by the Cape of Good Hope SPCA, and all profits are used to further the work of this organisation. The opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect those of the editors or the management of the Cape of Good Hope SPCA. While every effort is made to ensure editorial and factual accuracy, no responsibility is accepted for any errors.
BANK DETAILS: Cape of Good Hope SPCA Standard Bank Account: 0718 32858 Branch: 051001 Ref: Footprints / your name
Dear Friends Having only just recently joined the Cape of Good Hope SPCA, I feel truly blessed to be working in an amazing environment, with a team of people who are dedicated to the prevention of cruelty to animals and who are fearless and tireless in all their efforts. This edition of Footprints honours all those who serve our animals and you, our loyal supporters, without whom our work would not be possible. My journey with the SPCA has only just begun but in this edition, we bring you an article that highlights the milestones that have been achieved over the last 142 years (pages 8 and 9). It is incredible to imagine that we have grown from horse drawn animal ambulances to a full fleet of vehicles servicing an area of 11 000km’s2 and caring for pets in 18 communities. Winati Mkhaliphi, would know a lot about this, having spent the last 38 years in the service of the SPCA. You
can read his inspiring story on page 15. Time really does fly and the end of 2014 is almost upon us. In order to generate much needed funds, our beautiful Christmas cards will once again be available for purchase at a number of outlets around Cape Town (see page 5). I hope you enjoy the inspirational stories of our SPCA Heroes featured in this issue as much as I did. We salute 6 year old Cale Barnfather who cycled her heart out in extreme weather conditions to finish a 6km race and brave heart Danie Bruwer who made his race count for more by running the gruelling Comrades Marathon for the love of animals (page 6 and 7). On Pages 20 and 21 read about the team of 66 runners who collectively raised an amount of R 223 156.00 and on page 16 and 17, experience our Woefie Wandel, an annual event which this year, generated R 105 000.00 in funds.
Meet Shaggy & Tigger our Royal Canin Mutt and Meow of the Year and read their heart-warming stories on page 10 and 11. Learn about our Bequest Society, a visionary group of individuals whose lasting legacy will be one of love (page 22) - consider joining us at our next event on the 4th of December 2014. Animals are loyal friends, great companions, and beautiful to view in their natural environment. We are pleased to be able to present you with some wonderful stories of rescues (page 13), happy adoptions (page 23) and successful wildlife rehabilitation and release efforts (page 18 and 19). Thank you all for your incredible support during 2014, we wish you all a glorious festive season and a prosperous 2015. Happy Holidays & Happy Reading. Belinda
Report Animal Cruelty: Tel: 021 700 4158/9 A/H Emergency: 083 326 1604 @SPCACape
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www.spca-ct.co.za
facebook.com/CapeofGoodHopeSPCA
@SPCACape
CONTENTS 4-5
Support the work of the SPCA and shop with a cause.
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38 years of being an SPCA Hero - Winati Mkhaliphi tells his story.
6-7
SPCA Heroes make the work of the CoGH SPCA easier and worthwhile
16-17 Tail-waggers raise R 105 000 for shelter dogs at the Woefie Wandel
8-9
New developments are on the horizon as we take a nostalgic trip down memory lane
18-19 Cape Town’s wildlife has its own set of guardian angels in our Wildlife Unit.
10-11 Introducing the SPCA Royal Canin Mutt & Meow of the Year
20-21 Team SPCA takes on the Old Mutual Two Oceans 2014 and it’s your chance to get your entry for the 2015 Cape Town Cycle Tour
12-13 It’s been a busy year for our Inspectorate and their fight against animal cruelty
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Leave a legacy of love with our Bequest Society
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Happy Tails - stories of animals finding their new forever homes.
Win R10 000 with the SPCA’s Tails Up Competition
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SHOP WITH US
Spoil yourself or your furry friends while helping the SPCA
MORE THAN JUST A CHRISTMAS WISH Send Christmas wishes to your loved ones this festive season, by purchasing our beautiful new Christmas cards. With two unique designs, UV varnish for top quality, and available at R20 per pack (5 cards and 5 envelopes), the Cape of Good Hope SPCA Christmas Cards are the best way to spread the festive cheer these holidays. Visit the following vet shops to purchase your Christmas Cards: Vetshop Plumstead
6 Gabriel Road Plumstead
021 761 4463
Riverside Vet
153 Main Road Rondebosch
021 689 9791
St Francis157
Main Road Bergvliet
021 712 0357
Durbanville Animal Hospital
4 De Villiers Road Durbanville
021-976 3031
Citivet Bothasig
8 Tafelberg Street Bothasig
021 558 0995
Citivet Monte Vista
22 Diaz Ave Goodwood
021 558 2933
Vetclin
Blouberg Road Table View
021 557 8877
Be sure to also visit the following shopping centres’ charity kiosks from 27 October - 20 December to make your purchase: Constantia Village, Cavendish Square, Tygervalley and Waterstone Mall Somerset West. St Johns Charity Stall will also be selling cards from 17 October - 13 December 2014 from St John Centre Kommetjie Road. For more information contact
Natasha Johannes on 021-700 4155 or awareness@spca-ct.co.za. All profits go to the CoGH SPCA. We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Cipla Vet Animal Health for sponsoring the printing of our 2014 Christmas card range and to Tamed and Framed Pet Photography for sponsoring the beautiful images . Without their support this initiative would not have been possible.
Give your books a second chance After the huge success of both the SPCA Canal Walk Shopping Centre book sale and the Annual Cavendish Square Charity Book Sale, we are in need of more books. Any donations of books in the following categories will be greatly appreciated: Children (English and Afrikaans) History and Politics Africana Art Autobiography and Biography Crafts Classics Inspirational or self help Religion Business and finance Afrikaans books Fiction CD’s, DVD’s and games For more information on our books and book sales, contact Natasha Johannes on 021 700 4155 or email awareness@spca-ct.co.za.
Boarding Facility Closure Our dog boarding facility has been closed until further notice due to the upgrades & renovations that are due to begin soon. The facility will be closed until renovations have been completed. Please contact our Animal Care Centre for assistance or advice in this regard on 021 700 4160. We apologise for any inconvenience caused. 4
Message: Season’s Greetings
Cape of Good Hope
SPCA Vet Shop Stockists of all leading pet product brands
My Santa-Paws Wish List Hi I am Tia, my parents take me to the SPCA Vet shop in Plumstead on a regular basis and I love it! I get to see all the great things, smell all the awesome treats and get so much love and affection from the ladies at the shop and if I'm very good I get a biscuit from their treat jar! It’s the Festive season soon and I know I have been very good this year so I have made my all-time best wish list of things I think dogs like myself and cats like my friend ‘Just Ginger’ would really like: k A large smoked marrow bone (I promise I won’t bury it in the garden!) k An SPCA blanket (I promise I won’t drag it outside in the rain) k An SPCA bowl (blue for boys and pink for girls) k A Grinz treat ball (when you go out you can fill it with treats and then I won’t be naughty while you are away!) k An SPCA bandana (so when we do the Wiggle Waggle on 7 December I will look so smart!) k A lead and collar (there are some funky colours in the new summer range!)
6 Gabriel Road, Plumstead
My friend ‘Just Ginger’ would like: k An awesome amazing scratch post (then he won’t scratch your furniture!) k A value pack of toys (he’ll share the ball with me!) k Greenies dental treats (his favourite flavour is salmon!) k A bag of catnip (it kind of makes him ‘goofy’ when you sprinkle it around!) These are our favourite things and I know all pets love treats, so come into the SPCA vet shops and spoil your pet or treat one of our animals in the kennels this holiday season.
Cnr 1st Ave & First Rd Grassy Park
021 761 4463
021 700-4161
vetshop@spca-ct.co.za
gpvetshop@spca-ct.co.za
All profits from product sales are used to support the SPCA’s mission to
Speak, Protect and Care for Animals WIN R10 000 with
Each month one lucky animal-lover stands a chance to win R10 000 in the exciting SPCA Tails Up competition. To enter, simply buy 12 competition tickets of R50 each, and each month for the next year you will be entered into a lucky draw for R10 000! Our Tails Up Club is limited to 2000 members only, which means that the odds of winning is great. So don’t delay, sign up today and win! Email telesales@spca-ct.co.za or call 021 700 4171.
THANK YOU FOR SHOPPING WITH A CAUSE! Thank you to all our loyal MySchool MyPlanet MyVillage card holders, who have taken up our challenge and helped us raise over R 20 000.00 every month through this initiative. Help us to continue to care for animals by swiping your MySchool MyPlanet MyVillage card every time
you shop at participating outlets. If you don’t have a card yet, sign up for your MySchool MyVillage MyPlanet card today on our web site www.spca-ct.co.za: Click on the Shop with a Cause banner, select Cape of Good Hope SPCA as your beneficiary and everytime you shop, you will be helping an animal in need.
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SPCA HEROES Heroes putting their bodies to the test
Just some of the amazing people and companies who made a difference
Make your time count
Danie Bruwer decided to make his race count for more by running in the Comrades Marathon on 1 June 2014 for the Cape of Good Hope SPCA. This brave heart not only challenged himself to run the world’s oldest and largest ultramarathon, a distance of approximately 90km, but also raised over R 13 000.00 for the animals in our care!
Cale Barnfather is our youngest challenge fundraiser to date! At just 6-years-old she decided to participate in the Pringle Bay Fun Run on the 14 June 2014 and raised R 1 860.00 for our Horse Care Unit. On the day of the race the North Wester was blowing at 63km per hour and although the terrain was off road in the mountains, Cale finished her 6km race ‘for the love of animals’.
There is a very important job at the Cape of Good Hope SPCA, one that we entrust to a dedicated group of volunteers. The coin count. Every month, a group of loyal volunteers take over the Admin Building at the CoGH SPCA to count all the coins collected through our various collection tins. Last year, our money counters counted over half a million rand in coins!
If you would like to help the team with this important task each month, contact Natasha Johannes on 021 700 4155 or email awareness@spca-ct.co.za to find out how. Pictured here is some of the team: Walter Fish, Maise Swaboda, Joan Camerone and Sylvia Herringer with Pippa.
Canal Walk
BOOK SALE One of our own, Inspectorate Controller, Lettie Holt, with friend, Erika Gacobi, took on the SPAR Women’s Race for Team SPCA on 6 April 2014! Well done ladies! 6
The Cape of Good Hope SPCA held a four-day book sale at Canal Walk Shopping Centre from 26 - 29 June 2014. The event was a great success and raised more than R 73 000.00 a 16% increase on last year’s book sale income! The sale also attracted many customers from as far as Franschhoek and Stellenbosch!
Spare time on your hands? If you’ve got some spare time on your hands during the week, why not help our Fundraising department by sorting books in preparation for our many book sales throughout the year? If you think your time can be of use, contact Natasha Johannes on 021 700 4155 or email awareness@spca-ct.co.za.
In celebration of our beloved Nelson Mandela, the CoGH SPCA saw many organisations and individuals choose to dedicate their 67 minutes to our animals. Countless donations were received and many chose to spend their time showing some love towards the animals in our care. A huge thanks goes to all who partnered with us!
Mandela Day Magic
Oakhurst Primary School does Chores for Paws
Save the Date Bag a Bargain This popular bi-annual book sale takes place from 8h00 to 14h00 on Saturday 8 November 2014 at Timour Hall Villa in Plumstead, and for only R60 you’ll receive a huge re-usable cloth bag to cram full of as many of your favourite titles and authors as the bag can hold! Wiggle Waggle Walkathon Get your paws ready for the annual Wiggle Waggle family dog-walk, happening on 7 December 2014 at the Cape Academy of Maths and Science, Firgrove Way, Constantia. As always, the day promises loads of fun for all members of the family. Watch our website for when entries open.
“Chores for Paws” provides the perfect opportunity for children to acknowledge their special relationship with animals and further support the SPCA. The Grade R learners from Oakhurst Girls’ Primary School collected R 1 120.00 for the CoGH SPCA. This initiative has proven to be hugely successful with both children and parents, who were thrilled to see their sons and daughters being so helpful. Each child who completes the challenge receives an SPCA badge and all funds generated go directly to help animals in need and the prevention of animal cruelty.
Bequest Society Luncheon Honouring our very important and loyal Bequest Society members, the next SPCA Bequest Society Luncheon will be held on 4 December 2014. Watch our website and your mailboxes for details.
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142 years of Speaking for, Protecting and It’s a remarkable feat - 142 years. Nearly 1000 in dog years. And we can be proud of all the achievements that the Cape of Good Hope SPCA, founding society of the movement in South Africa, has realised since opening its doors in 1872. From horsedrawn animal ambulances, to a full fleet of mobile clinics and a team of dedicated inspectors who cover an expanse of 11 000km2 daily. Not to mention the dedication of our tireless staff at our Grassy Park premises, caring for all types of animals, day-in and day-out. The society will soon be embarking on an exciting new project to upgrade the Animal Care Centre and Pound. The current facilities have not been refurbished in a number of years, and are at the point where work must commence in order for us to provide the best care to animals that we possibly can.
The Board of Directors has approved the major upgrade of certain facilities and Phase 1 will commence early in 2015. These upgrades involve the total revamp of the current Animal Care Centre and its kennels, as well as the current vet and charity shops. These facilities have not been significantly upgraded in more than 30 years and are in need of replacement. Some of the features that the new development will accommodate include: l A new Pound (incl Lost and Found) in the renovated Adoption Centre l A brand new modern Adoption Centre l A brand new Charity shop and Vet shop l A brand new Cat Adoption Pod increasing cat facilities by 100% l Replacing F, A and B dog blocks with a new Dog Pod while retaining D, E, C and G blocks l A 2nd Dog Pod increasing capacity
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by an additional 80 kennels (a 75% increase to existing number of dog kennels) Vastly improved delineation resulting in better bio-security Extension of parking facilities Vastly improved civils including a water polishing moat Brand new high volume waste water sewerage system
The cost of the redevelopment will be covered by many years of investment capital and amounts to a sum of R 20 million. You, our valued supporters, should rest assured that the Board of Directors has worked tirelessly to ensure that these developments will last well into the future of the CoGH SPCA, ensuring our growth as a society and our ability to comfortably house and care for thousands of animals year in and year out, in efficient and cost-effective ways.
With the plans of development creating quite a buzz around the offices, we found ourselves feeling a little nostalgic at the milestones that the Cape of Good Hope SPCA has achieved in its 142 years of existence: 1872 The CoGH SPCA is founded in Wynberg and becomes the founding society of the SPCA movement and animal welfare in South Africa. 1878 The first annual report is produced and the offices move to St George’s Street in Cape Town. 1897 The first Cruelty to Animals Act is passed in parliament. 1900 The first horse-drawn animal ambulance is imported to South Africa from England 1906 Two bicycles are added to the transport fleet 1908 Offices move to Greenpoint Square, Cape Town 1913 Offices move to Parliament Street, Cape Town 1919 The first SPCA Animal Hospital and Home of Rest for Animals is established in Mowbray
Phase 1 of the redevelopment will include a new charity and vet shop retail space and a new cat adoption mini-pod
1929 The first motor ambulance is acquired 1932/3 Robertson and Wellington SPCAs become affiliated to the CoGH SPCA 1934 An Animal Clinic is opened in Cape Town 1936/7 Paarl SPCA becomes affiliated to the CoGH SPCA The CoGH SPCA is affiliated to the Royal SPCA in England 1945 Land is purchased for the present premises in Grassy Park 1946 Animal hospital and home is started
Phase 1 also includes one of the pods which will replace the current F, A and B dog kennels
1956 Animal Hospital in Grassy Park is completed and is the first of its kind in Southern Africa. The CoGH SPCA becomes the founding member of the Federation of SPCA in South Africa, which subsequently becomes known as the National Council of SPCAs in the 1980s. 1959 Head office moves to Grassy Park
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Can you believe we’re nearly 1000 years old in dog years?!
Caring for all Animals 1972 CoGH SPCA celebrates its centenary
attend to an avenue of cruelty with regard to retired racehorses.
Education department expands to 3 fulltime educators
1976 Focused support to disadvantaged communities is initiated
1992 The SPCA develops its first formal strategic plan and vision for the future
1980 The Parow Pound comes under the wing of the CoGH SPCA
The Mission Statement is written: “We speak for, protect and care for all animals”
2002 Completion of upgrades and extensions to the Hospital’s operating theatres and wards and re-opened as the new SPCA Gorfinkel Animal Clinic.
1983 Policies on wide ranging animal problems are defined and adopted by the National Council of SPCAs
1993 Footprints Magazine is launched
2003 Ani-Pal education programme is launched and aims to teach learners in grades 3-5 2008 Opening of the Audrey Jacobs Feed Store.
A policy of sterilising all animals that are placed in new homes is adopted by the SPCA
A new reception area, clinics and consulting rooms for the hospital are built
The first rationalisation amongst animal societies comes about and the Cape Metropolitan is split into a number of areas. Various animal welfares take responsibility for identified areas
31 boarding kennels and 122 kennels for strays are built
Animal Cops South Africa television series airs on international television, showcasing the work of the CoGH SPCA inspectors.
1994 The first Wiggle Waggle Walk-aThon takes place
2010 Opening of the first CoGH SPCA Vet Shop in Plumstead
1995 More kennels are refurbished
First sterilisation week is introduced
Dedicated Horse Care Unit is established in Grassy Park.
Implementation of a new almoning policy at the hospital to ensure equitable charging
1984 Increased education and support to disadvantaged areas becomes a greater focus for the society A shift in attitude comes about as the SPCA does not want to be seen as a policeman and goes into the townships to educate. Prosecution becomes the final resort Two new mobile clinics are introduced to service the townships 1985 A new sterilisation clinic is built A new wildlife unit is established and treats 500 wild birds, animals and reptiles in its first year 1989 SPCA welcomes the National Thoroughbred Trust, a trust fund that is initiated by the racing industry to
1996 Bequest society is formed
2011 Completion of a new Farm Yard facility at our Grassy Park premises
New mobile clinic becomes operational, bringing total to three
Recipient of the prestigious Mayor’s Medal for Community Affairs
Instrumental in the compilation and promulgation of the City of Cape Town’s Animal By-Laws. 2012 Opening of Cape Town’s first Short-Term Wildlife Care Facility Communications department receives a Bronze PRISM award for their Hill’s Life’s Better Shared Adoption campaign The Western Cape Dept. Agriculture funds the first Mass Animal Sterilisation pilot-project in Khayamandi 2013 The Ani-Pal Education Programme receives a Silver Impumelelo Award for Excellence The City of Cape Town co-funds the next Mass Animal Sterilisation pilot project in Du Noon 2014 Plans are approved to upgrade the Animal Care Centre and Pound.
1997 New cattery is built Outside hospital wards are heated 1998 Acceleration of sterilisation campaign in Khayelitsha 2000 Mobile Clinic fleet expands to four vehicles
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2014’s Finest Feline and Introducing the 2014 SPCA It is our greatest pleasure to introduce to you, our 2014 SPCA Royal Canin Mutt and Meow of the Year: Shaggy and Tigger. Announced at a special prize-giving event on Friday 15 August for the top finalists in all categories of the online competition, Shaggy and Tigger came out tops for their amazing stories of love, loyalty and bravery. The winners of the Top Fundraisers of the Year were mutt, Peanut (owned by Runé Hugo) and meow, Mac (owned by Courtnay Craul). Peanut and her loving mom raised over R 4000.00 for the CoGH SPCA and Mac and her mom brought in over R 2000.00.
2014 SPCA Royal Canin Mutt of the Year Shaggy a highway road-side rescue found his new family in September 2012. When Arnold Spangenberg was told about Shaggy’s story, he had to bring Shaggy into his home. He adopted Shaggy in October 2012. “Despite being thrown from a truck with a badly docked tail and two operations later, Shaggy has no bitterness or negativity. He is sprightly and loving. He talks back to his grandma when she
reprimands him and then tells his dad about it. Shaggy goes for two walks a day, before I go to work and when I return and he loves other animals and humans. He is friendly and cute and the most loyal companion I have ever had” says Arnold. Pat MacEwan’s loyal and loving Jack Russell terrier, Toby took 2nd place and Spike, owned by Marian Nel tugged the heart strings to earn 3rd place. Left: Liezel van der Westhuizen was once again a competition judge, pictured here with Amber. Below left: Toby and Pat MacEwan take 2nd Place Below centre: Spike with owner Marian Nel takes 3rd Place Mutt of the Year Below right: Peanut with owner Runé Hugo takes Mutt Fundraiser of the Year
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Shaggy and owner Arnold Spangenberg take 1st Place Mutt of the Year
Most Handsome Hound Royal Canin Mutt and Meow of the Year 2014 SPCA Royal Canin Meow of the Year Tigger tells of his tale of a lucky 9 lives - how he entered Sheira Pragt’s home in March 2012, thin and covered in motor oil and fleas and dodging the morning traffic. Sheira’s family knew it was fate fed him, cleaned him and kept him. However, one month before his estimated birthday, it seemed his luck had run out. Tigger was knocked over by a car and when Sheira and family found him, he lay in a pool of blood with his left eyeball outside of the socket. They rushed him to the nearest available vet and found that Tigger’s jaw had been badly broken and his eye could not be saved. There was also the likelihood that he would be blind in the remaining eye due to the serious head trauma. “We didn’t have to think twice he had shown what a brave little fighter he was from the start, and we could not give up on him. Weeks of surgery and rehabilitation went by and it was still unclear if he would ever see again but he
took everything in his stride. Over time, we noticed how he would follow us and even brought the odd lizard inside. Miraculously, our baby could see! He has continued to fill our lives with so much love and happiness. Not a day goes by that he doesn’t prove to us how grateful he is and brings a smile to all around him.” says Sheira Pragt. Barbara Kerr-Shaw’s courageous Moe took 2nd place for the SPCA Royal Canin Meow of the Year and Sarah Manners’ little 3-month-old Angus took 3rd place. Special thanks to our sponsors, Royal Canin, without whom, this popular competition would not have been possible; our incredible celebrity judges, Liezel van der Westhuizen and Danilo Acquisto, who took time out of their busy schedules to read through tearjerking stories and decide on the winners; as well as prize-sponsors Tamed & Framed Photography, Scratzme and Ciplavet.
Tigger with owner Sheira Pragt take 1st Place Meow of the Year
Moe with owner Barbara KerrShaw take 2nd Place
Angus with owner Sarah Manners takes 3rd Place
Far left: Mac with owner Courtnay Craul took the title Meow Fundraiser of the Year Left: Mutt and Meow 2014 judge Danilo Acquisto 11
Slaying the “Slabattoir”
An example of incorrect transportation of livestock
Recently, the Cape of Good Hope SPCA was instrumental in exposing an important humanitarian issue for many Capetonians - the informal abattoirs in many of Cape Town’s informal settlements. “Slabbatoirs” as they’ve been coined in the media, are informal slaughter houses, located on street sidewalks and pavements - encompassing a full “service” from slaughter and skinning, to preparing meat for consumption, to cooking and serving “braai” meals for the local community. The situation was nothing short of a humanitarian disaster waiting to happen. With sheep transported inhumanely (e.g. in the boot of a sedan car, ankles tied) and then slaughtered in front of each other with no holding pens; no form of hygiene or drainage for the blood and faeces; the meat of these animals prepared on unsanitary wooden tables just 2 metres from the slaughter spot; and finally cooked for human consumption on large half drum braai’s just another metre away from the preparation tables - indeed a much larger bio-security issue waiting to spread diseases of all kinds to people and animals who frequent the area was apparent. The issue however is not just that of animal welfare but involves the City 12
of Cape Town as well as the Department of Agriculture. Our inspectors will continue to work with the authorities to find a better solution for both the animals and community members who rely on the income these abattoirs provide. The How To of Livestock Transportation: In South Africa, we are fortunate to have laws which protect and govern the way in which livestock are transported - even livestock for slaughter. Here’s a simple list of what to do and what not to do, and how you can help if you see an animal being transported incorrectly. l All animals must at all times be handled with patience and care l Vehicles used must be in a good
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state of repair at all times, and must have non-slip floors and proper ventilation, drainage and protection from hazards and the elements. Animals must be given proper and adequate food and water prior to and during their journey Animals must be penned correctly i.e. young animals separate to adults, agitated animals away from others being transported or loaded and there should be adequate space to comfortably accommodate all animals Animals should not be tied or restrained inhumanely and should never be struck with any instrument to the face or other sensitive area If necessary that an animal should be restrained to prevent injury to itself, the restraining should never deprive that animal of essential needs and comfort. If you see livestock being inhumanely transported or have even a mere suspicion, please contact our Inspectorate on 021 700 4158/9 or 083 326 1604 after hours to report the incident immediately.
Sheba’s tale of courage
Many will remember the heartbreaking video that made the rounds (and the news!) a few months ago in Cape Town. The video showed a man beating his dog with what appeared to be a garden rake - filmed by his concerned and brave neighbour. The neighbour reported the incident to our inspectors and handed over the video evidence so that we could open charges against the individual. Needless to say, our team promptly went to the address to rescue a beautiful but scared German Shepherd and brought her back to our premises in Grassy Park for safety. Sheba, as we so named her for grabbing our hearts immediately and fast becoming our KennelQueen, grew from strength to strength during her stay with us. She patiently waited out her pound period with us, and then waited again while she underwent all her vaccinations to make sure she was fit and healthy. Sheba impressed her baviourists who worked with her often to get her socialised again, and although she’s still a little shy of some men, she made such a turn around that we couldn’t wait to put her up for adoption. Although still a bit timid, Sheba is up for adoption, waiting to find a new home that will cherish her with all the love and affection she craves. If you’ve got space in your home for Sheba, or for any of her kennel friends, contact our Adoptions Centre on 021 700 4152 or email adoptions@spca-ct.co.za. In the meantime, we laid official charges of Cruelty to Animals against Sheba’s original owner, an 84-year-old man from Cape Town’s southern suburbs - he pleaded guilty and received a fine and a suspended prison sentence. He is also never allowed to own or be in control of any animal ever again.
Tips for the Summer Holidays
Random Tam’s photography
The festive season is just around the corner and some retail stores may already be playing the familiar sounds of Christmas jingles and this means, it’s time to prepare for the summer holidays! But as much as we plan our own holidays and relaxation time, we must remember to prepare for our pets too! Here are some tips to help you: l Crowds of people, loud music and sounds frighten animals, as their hearing is far more sensitive than ours. Keep pets in a quiet space when entertaining and be mindful when, for instance, pulling Christmas crackers and popping champagne and balloons. l Do not feed your pets braai left overs such as bones, which can splinter and cause blockages. Also remember that chocolates are poisonous to animals. l If you cannot take your pet with you on vacation then make sure to place them in suitable boarding kennels or
get someone responsible to take care of them. If you are travelling for long distances in a car, ensure that adequate ventilation is in place for your pet and always take a bowl and a few litres of water along. If you stop for a leg stretch, ensure that you have a proper collar and lead to secure and walk your pet. l Get your pet a pet identity tag available at most vet shops or a microchip (inexpensive, non-invasive procedure available at vets and the SPCA). This significantly increases the chances of lost pets being reunited with their owners. l Animals are generally inquisitive so be sure to keep wiring, wrapping paper, ribbons, tinsel and anything that they could eat or get tangled up in, out of reach. l Very important - please do NOT leave animals in cars. On warm to hot sunny days cars heat up quickly and become like ovens. It can take as little as a mere 15
minutes for a pet to succumb to the effects of heat exposure. If you come across an animal left in a locked car please immediately take action to locate the owner either through shopping centre management or security personnel. Alternatively contact the SPCA on (021) 700 4145/9 or after hours and
on weekends call 083 326 1604. l All animals need a constant supply of fresh water. Dogs need plenty of water to cool down and pet owners must check and fill their water bowls regularly and leave them in a shady area. l All animals need shelter from the heat and dog kennels should be removed from areas that will receive direct sunlight. l Do not exercise your animals in the heat of the day and watch for warning signs - if your dog pants quickly, looks very tired or collapses, it could be suffering from heatstroke. Put him or her in a cool, shady spot and spray its body with cold water. When walking, try to stay off hot surfaces (like asphalt) because it can burn your dog’s paws. l Rabbits and other small mammals that are kept in outside hutches should also always be kept in the shade as hutches can heat up very quickly. All caged animals, even if they are indoors, should be kept out of direct sunlight. l Continue to keep your pets free from external parasites such as ticks and fleas. Remember to take your pets for their annual booster vaccinations at your local vet or the SPCA. l Consider clipping or shaving dogs (and some breed of cats) with long coats, and apply sunscreen to your pet’s skin, nose and around the eyes, especially if she or he has a thin coat or is very light in colour.
Meet Anne Boyce Anne was recently promoted from our Lost and Found department to Farm Yard & Horse Care Unit Supervisor where she’s found her true calling! Anne’s gentle soul is exactly what the many equines who pass through the HCU need. To view the horses and farm animals up for adoption, visit our website at www.spca-ct.co.za or call Anne on 021 700 4173 or email hcuadmin@spca-ct.co.za.
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Your chance to help animals win! Every animal deserves a fighting chance and you can help give them this chance every month, through a mere R50 donation and then stand a chance yourself, to win R10 000! Joining the Tails Up Club at the Cape of Good Hope SPCA is easy. By
Manfred Pieper
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signing up for a monthly donation of R50 every month for 12 months, you get 12 chances to win the R10 000 prize money! But above this - it means that every month, the animals in our care also win! Because of you, they have another chance at a better life. And don’t worry about the odds -
Ann Krawczyk
the Tails Up Club is limited to only 2000 members, making your chances of winning that much greater! For more information about the club or to register to join, contact the Telesales department on 021 700 4171 or email telesales@spca-ct.co.za.
Taryn Springhall
Winners o f the Tails Up C lub lucky draw since Jun e 2014 a re: June 2014 : Manfred P ieper, Auro ra July 2014 : Ann Krawc zyk, Clarem ont August 20 14: Taryn Spri nghall, Cla remont Septembe r 2014: Shelley Au gust, Brac kenfell
Shelley August
Winati Mkhaliphi, our very own unsung hero After 38 years of working in the CoGH SPCA’s Animal Hospital, Winati Mkhaliphi, retired at the end of September 2014. At age 63, Winati has become a stalwart of the SPCA in Grassy Park and told a bit of his story to Footprints: Winati, when did you start working for the SPCA? I started working at the SPCA on 1 June 1976 - as a young man - not a single grey hair on my head! What was your job back then? I began as a ward cleaner - keeping the wards clean, tidy and hygienic for the staff and animals. I took an interest in my job and took it seriously. I saw that the vets would often need assistance, and so I began to help them to clean the theatres. I also volunteered to go on outreaches like the mass sterilisation projects which I really enjoyed.
What is it that you do now? How did you move up the ranks? I am now a veterinary assistant but still help out in the wards when we are short on staff. I keep the theatres clean and sterile for the vets. What is your favourite part of your job? I’ve done everything and I love my job. I love knowing that I can help an animal by keeping the operating area clean for the animals that are brought in to the hospital. I love animals, and I’m glad my job is actively helping sick and injured animals get better.
What has been your most memorable moment? I don’t think I can pin down just one. 38 years is a long time - there are so many stories, so many memories. I’m really going to miss the SPCA.
If there’s one lesson you hope people have learnt from you, what is it? I think, I hope, that the younger staff will learn that this job is so important and mustn’t be taken for granted. In the hospital, hygiene is so important - an animal’s life is at risk if we do not do our jobs properly. And that would go against everything that we do at the SPCA. What message would you leave behind for your colleagues? You must have a passion for your job, listen to and learn from your colleagues - all of them! It is important to know what the people around you do - that’s how you learn. You must also have a strong heart. A passionate heart, but not a weak heart - otherwise you’ll never survive with the things we see. Do you have any pets of your own? Tell us about them. I have dogs, cats, sheep, cows and goats. I grew up on a farm surrounded by all sorts of animals. I think the only animal I have never owned is a horse and a donkey!
An old photograph taken 20 years ago of Winati Mkhaliphi, Chief Orderly, assisting Dr Gina Du Plessis in sterilising a cat
We thank Winati for his 38 years of dedication and service to animals and our Society. We wish him all the best for this next journey in life. 15
Tail-waggers raise R105
Pic by Simone Millward
were also treated to an array of entertainment and retail stalls while they relaxed their tired legs after the walk - from a skills demonstration by K9 Search and Rescue, food and refreshment vendors, vet shop and pet accessory stalls and Cape Town’s very own funny guys, MC’s, Carl Weber and Dalin Oliver who kept crowds on their feet and on the floor with laughter! And those who stayed a little later were treated to a free mini concert by one of SA’s top female singer-songwriters, Louise Carver! A tail-wagging thank you to all the event sponsors and supporters who came out in their hundreds to make this day a huge success. Keep an eye on our website and social media pages for details of the next Wiggle Waggle Walkathon taking place on 7 December 2014.
Picture by Andrew Gorman
More than 1350 walkers and 1000 dogs put their best paw forward on Sunday 30 March, at the SPCA PURINA Woefie Wandel which took place at the beautiful D’Aria Wine Estate in Durbanville. Despite a dark and rainy morning atop some of Durbanville’s best-known vineyards, animal lovers and their furry friends showed their unwavering support for shelter animals in this 5th annual Woefie Wandel family dog-walk. From entry fees paid by the dogowners and their four-legged friends, together with a generous sponsorship from Nestlé PURINA, the event raised an amazing R105 000 which went directly toward looking after all the animals in our care and helping the Cape of Good Hope SPCA to continue to speak for, protect and care for the animals of Cape Town. Walkers had the choice between a 2 or 4km meander through the vineyards, marked with plenty of water points for both humans and dogs along the route. Participants
Crisinda, Nicole, Jean, Sherry, Yolandi and Edzard Goosen with Minki and Peaches from Vredekloof
Pic by Andrew Gorman
Pic by Simone Millward
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000 for shelter dogs Pic by Andrew Gorman
Randomtams Photography
Mieke Stroebel with Jessica from Welgedaght
Sporting an SPCA bandana Pic by Andrew Gorman
Pic by Andrew Gorman
Pic by Andrew Gorman
Louise Carver performed a few favourites Left: Elsje-Mari Louw from Paarl takes SPCA Walking Pet Balloons for a stroll
Pic by Andrew Gorman
Pic by Andrew Gorman
Melandra Kapp from Brakenfell with Minki
Right: MC’s Dalin Oliver and Carl Weber kept crowds laughing for days Left: Bianca and Leigh from Bellville with Sammy and Kaley Far right: Grethe Marren from Durbanville with Klara
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Caring for Tortoises Tortoises are among some of the most underrated wildlife that we find in Cape Town, and many people have the wrong idea of how best to care for them: In the Western Cape, we find 3 species of tortoise, namely, the Mountain, Angulate and Parrot Beak. The Cape of Good Hope SPCA’s Wildlife Unit has over recent years, seen an influx of tortoises being brought into the facility - some come in as strays and are never collected by their owners; others are handed in by people who have tried to keep them as pets; and some are confiscated as a result of cruelty where, for example, holes are drilled into their shells for various reasons. The CoGH SPCA is fortunate to have been able to release a number of tortoises into their natural habitat at Diemersfontein Wine Estate and Bastiaanskloof farm. But it’s not a simple or easy process to release tortoises back into the wild. These notoriously slow creatures carry various pathogens which could endanger the local wildlife population. Because we are rarely certain as to where a particular tortoise comes from, releases are always strategically planned, with input and guidance from Cape Nature, the managing authority on wildlife in the Western Cape.
Did you know
You need a pe rmit to keep an Angu late or Mountain tort oise as a pet in the We stern Cape. Any ot her tortoise speci es may not be kept as pets. Permits are is sued by Cape Nature .
Why tortoises shouldn’t be pets:
often Our wildlife team rescues of receives calls for s. This year e blacklisted speci and cared en we’ve already se , a Madako ec G for a Leopard dgehog and gascan Tenrec He these are a Meerkat. All of Western he t in d e blacklist ure. Cape by CapeNat
A few months ago, the Cape of Good Hope SPCA received video evidence depicting two teenage school girls involved in sexual acts whilst crushing small live animals 18
with their feet. Heinous as this act sounds, we discovered it to in fact be a new trend in pornography, mostly originating in the United States. Upon further investigation, the girls
were identified as learners of a prominent High School in Cape Town and charges of animal cruelty were laid against them. In August, the producer of the animal crush fetish video was arrested and charged with the production of child pornography. The CoGH SPCA requested that charges of Animal Cruelty be added to his charge sheet. At the time of going to print, the Sea Point man was due to appear in court.
Tortoises belong in their natural habitats the wild. There is an unfortunate misconception that tortoises which are kept as pets only require lettuce to eat, and this is absolutely not true. Their natural diets include Renosterveld (an indigenous vegetation type of the Western Cape) and chewing on bones for much needed calcium to help them grow and develop. This is one example which shows why the SPCA movement as a whole does not support the keeping of any wild animals as pets they require special care and diets, which they only truly get, in their natural habitats.
Back to the wild they go Here’s a snapshot look at just some of the animals we released back into the wild this year:
Spotted Eagle Owl
Large spotted genet
Rock Kestral
Porcupines
Sub Antarctic fur seal
Water Mongoose
Meet Megan Reid
Madagascan Tenrec Hedgehog
Cape Chameleon Just before going to print, our Wildlife Unit collected a very young Cape Fox cub – estimated to be just a few days old. She’d been separated from her mother and was found lost and cold on the side of the road in Stellenbosch. Our team happily gave her comfort and with a few tins of Puppy Milk generously donated by Royal Canin, have been caring for her day and night. She’ll remain with us until she’s old enough to go back to the wild.
Megan Reid is the new Wildlife Unit Supervisor, internally promoted earlier this year. Megan is studying toward her National Diploma in Nature Conservation and together with 2 inspectors, works every day protecting and caring for some of Cape Town’s beautiful wild animals.
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Team SPCA takes on the Old Mutual Two Oceans 2014 At the beginning of the year, 66 members of Team SPCA took on the World’s Most Beautiful Marathon, the Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon, traversing some of Cape Town’s most spectacular routes and scenes. Together, the team raised a total of R 223 156.00, with the top fundraiser, Matthew Copham, bringing in a whopping R 19 715.00. Team SPCA runners were offered the following benefits in return for them committing to raising a minimum of R 2000.00: l Guaranteed half marathon entry l A limited edition TEAM SPCA running shirt l A special ‘thank you’ bag l Team members were also invited to attend a pre-race function at our SPCA, where they met new friends who share their passion for running and animals. They were also shown where the funds that were raised will be used Well done and thank you to each and every Team SPCA member for doing it all for the love of animals!
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Call for Entries Cape Town Cycle Tour Do you want to make your race count for more? Do it for the love of animals by signing up to be part of Team SPCA! In 2014, 140 cyclists took up the challenge and raised just under half a million rand for the Cape of Good Hope SPCA! The bar has been set, and we need you to help us reach the target of R 500 000 for shelter animals in 2015. To sign up and enter the Cape Town Cycle Tour 2015 as part of Team SPCA, contact Natasha Johannes on 021 700 4155 or email awareness@spcact.co.za.
Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon Team: 1. Matthew Copham - TOP FUNDRAISER R19 715 2. Heidi Mehring - 2nd TOP FUNDRAISER R15 930 3. Rachael May - 3rd TOP FUNDRAISER R12 073 4. Siegfried Grimbeek 5. Arlene Potgieter 6. Barbara Kingsley 7. Barry Van Zyl 8. Bronwyn-Lee Kloppers 9. Casandra Mitchley 10. Celeste Swarts 11. Chelsea Hall 12. Claire Davidson 13. Craig Bradnick 14. Dena Wainman 15. Diana Deist 16. Elizabeth Le Roux 17. Emily Holden 18. Erika Marx 19. Esté van der Merwe 20. Freddy Kruger 21. Gemma Spickernell 22. Gerrit Meyer
23. Gordon Greeff 24. Greta Tunnicliffe 25. Haylee Dugmore 26. Heili-Jane Ellis 27. Hloni Booklane 28. Ian Phillips 29. Jacomes Cronje 30. JC Visser 31. Joanne Lee Boswell 32. Johann de Kock 33. Ka Ka Chan 34. Keith Clark 35. Lauren Stein 36. Linda Payton 37. Lourens Pienaar 38. Maeson Maherry 39. Marijke Willmott 40. Marlene Bradnick 41. Mason Cranswick 42. Matthew Orolowitz 43. Megan Easey 44. Megan Pentz-Kluyts
45. Melanie Shirk 46. Michelle Connan 47. Michelle Smit-Stemmet 48. Myrna Cameron-Harris 49. Nadine Burger 50. Natalie Fae Smit 51. Natasha Rossouw 52. Nicole Tyler 53. Nuraan Hendricks 54. Patricia Forbes 55. Pikki (Peggie) Chan 56. Pippa Hudson 57. Robert Alton Irwin 58. Robert Nises 59. Sally Cranswick 60. Samantha Chamberlain 61. Sarah Hill 62. Sherri-Leigh Vester 63. Shevaun McCreedy 64. Terina Le Roux 65. Tim Toovey 66. Warren Fisher
If you are interested in taking part in the Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon in 2015 why not make your race count for more and join Team SPCA. For more information please contact Natasha Johannes on 021 700 4155 or email awareness@spca-ct.co.za.
What’s in it for you? Being part of Team SPCA in 2015 means that you: l Are guaranteed an entry l Receive a free branded Team SPCA cycle shirt l Get a special ‘thank you’ bag l Stand a chance of winning a fantastic prize that will make you the envy of all your cycling friends l Have the personal satisfaction of completing one the largest timed cycle events in the world and the knowledge that thousands of animals will gain from your pain through: t sterilisations, food, blankets and vaccinations, t reducing operating costs relating to the adoption and rehoming of cats, dogs, equines and farm animals t keeping our inspectors on the roads so that they can actively prevent cruelty to animals t helping to provide medical care to thousands of animals treated through our Animal Hospital t keeping our wildlife team equipped and able to rescue and rehabilitate hundreds of wild animals who need help getting back to their natural homes. Don’t delay – call us now!
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Leaving a legacy of love
Save the Date for the next Bequest Luncheon on 4 December 2014.
“The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way it treats its animals.”- Mahatma Gandhi
Remembering the Cape of Good
Honouring our Bequest Society
Hope SPCA in your will ensures
Members - June Luncheon In June of this year, Bequest Society members were invited to a special luncheon held in their honour at the Old Mutual Guest House in Constantia. Members were treated to a delicious lunch and a trip down memory lane with Chairman of the Board, Dr Theo Shippey, before hearing about exciting development plans for the future, from the Society’s CEO, Allan Perrins. Thanks to some wonderful sponsors, many members walked away with fantastic lucky-draw prizes, including some very special horse blankets sponsored by Equestrian Affair. With their philanthropic hearts, all of the winners of these blankets, donated them right back to our very own Horse Care Unit - thank you!
that your testimony of love for animals lives on and means that we can continue to Speak for, Protect and Care for all animals into the future. We salute the visionary members of our Bequest Society who have committed to a cash or a residual estate bequest and thank you on behalf of all the animals who cannot do so themselves. Your generosity will live on in every animal we are able to rescue. To find out how you can be part of this legacy, contact the Cape of Good Hope SPCA on 021 700 4154 or email frmanager@spca-ct.co.za.
If you’ve decided to leave a gift for us in your will, here is some important information to know: l
l
l
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Please stipulate that your bequest is in favour of the Cape of Good Hope SPCA to ensure that we are the recipients of your most generous gift. The abbreviation “CoGH” will not suffice and the name must be written out in full. Be assured that any gift is more than acceptable to us. We do however advise bequestors to consider a residual gift, after their nearest and dearest have been taken care of. The Cape of Good Hope SPCA is exempt from tax in terms of the Income Tax Act. This means that if you bequeath an amount to us, estate levies will be reduced.
Happy TAILS
Baggins gets a 3rd chance! Baggins made his own way to the CoGH SPCA, coming in as a stray. But it wasn’t too long until he found his new home with a lovely new owner. Baggins grew very comfortable in his new surrounds very quickly - so much so that he quickly developed a habit for visiting the neighbour’s house. Sadly, the neighbour was less than impressed. After some hasty words and a
Shrek finds his happily ever after Shrek, a beautiful boerboel, came in as a stray in 2013. He waited a good while to find his new forever home, as our kennel staff were determined to find the perfect match for his larger than life
threat to harm Baggins by the neighbour, Baggins’ new mom, heartbroken, returned him to the SPCA, out of fear for his life - and Baggins went back up for adoption. Until along came Doug Young and his wife, who fell in love with Baggins immediately - and so much that they couldn’t bear to separate him from his cattery partner, Megan - so they adopted them both! Baggins and Megan now live with Doug and his family in a peaceful, happy home.
Ever wondered what happens to animals once they have been rehomed by the SPCA? Here are a few happyever-afters to warm your heart!
Two happy kids On 17 September, twin kids only a few days old were found orphaned on the Muizenberg dumpsite, and were brought to us for safety. They were cold, extremely hungry and terribly frightened. They huddled together very frightened and although we made them a thick bed of sawdust and offered water and delicious Lucerne, it soon became apparent that these two would not survive the night if we did not try something else. A friend of our Farm Yard Supervisor called to
offer his Saanen milk goat, whose own kid was now old enough to be separated and eating and drinking on its own. The surrogate mother took to the twins immediately, instinctively recognising their need. By the morning, both kids were happily drinking off of their new “mom”. At the time of going to print, the lucky twins were up for adoption. Please contact our Farm Yard Supervisor if you can offer a good home or horses or farm animals: 021 700 4173 or email hcuadmin@spca-ct.co.za.
personality. When Gary and Claire Rockliffe-Fidler came in looking to adopt a dog, they knew it was fate when they saw Shrek. Almost a year later, Gary and Claire sent us an update on how their new, bigger, family is doing from Wales, England! The family emigrated there earlier this year, and Shrek is loving his new home.
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PLEASE LEAVE YOUR LOVE WHERE THEY WILL FIND IT Your legacy can help to create a better future for animals.
Cape of Good Hope
Please remember us through a bequest in your Will and let us know so that we can thank you and welcome you into our special Bequest Society. For further information please contact us: Cape of Good Hope SPCA, P.O. Box 3, Plumstead 7801 Tel: 021 700 4141 Email: frmanager@spca-ct.co.za