Cape of Good Hope
We speak for, protect and care for animals
ISSUE 2, 2012
October is Pet Adoption Month
Cape of Good Hope
Letter from THE EDITOR
ISSUE 2, 2012 EDITORIAL SARAH SCARTH, LISE-MARIE GREEFF-VILLET, LAMEES MARTIN, LEE-ANNE JACOBS 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 DESIGN JOAN SUTTON Mobile: 084 562 3425 Email: joansutn@mweb.co.za COVER PHOTOGRAPH Jo-Ann Strauss and Panda by Micky Wiswedel of Black Dog Studios PRINTING SPONSORED BY FORMESET Tel: 021 507 9000 PAPER SPONSORED BY NOR PAPER Tel: 021 511 3810
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 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.
Dear Friends With Spring in the air we are getting ready for our big fundraising events: the SPCA Horse Show in Constantia on 21 October; the Wiggle Waggle Walkathon on Sunday, 2 December in Tokai; and the Woefie-Wandel in the Durbanville Hill’s Wine Valley on 17 March 2013. These familyfriendly, animal-lovin’ events are great fun for the whole family and we look forward to seeing you there. Further details are available on our website (www.spca-ct.co.za) or by calling us on 021 700 4141. Springtime also means we are preparing to cope with an influx of unwanted puppies and kittens born from dogs and cats left unsterilised. Read about the Mass Pet Sterilisation Pilot Project in Kayamandi, Stellenbosch on page 16. Encouraging people to adopt rather than buy a pet is critical to us giving animals a second chance. Last year the SPCA Hill’s adoption campaign was a huge success and resulted in dozens of animals being adopted to wonderful new homes. We’re very proud and fortunate to
4 ASTRID AUSTERFIELD DEDICATED TO GINZA AND PETRA PHYLLIS CLASSE IN MEMORY OF NEVILLE AND CHRISTOPHER
Report Animal Cruelty: Tel: 021 700 4158/9 A/H Emergency: 083 326 1604 www.spca-ct.co.za
fontein Wine Estate in Wellington a truly uplifting experience made possible thanks to the support of our loyal donors! We’ve had some wonderful feedback on the first edition of our new PawPrints newsletter. If for some reason you didn’t receive your copy of PawPrints, please let us know or if you’d like additional copies to share with colleagues, friends and family, please contact Adri Truter at dbadmin2@spca-ct.co.za or call her on 021 700 4168. In closing, this will be my last issue as the Editor of Footprints. As I step down as head of Communications and Fundraising at the Cape of Good Hope SPCA, it gives me great pleasure to introduce Lise-Marie Greeff-Villet (pictured with me above), who brings a wealth of experience as a seasoned communications specialist and committed and passionate animal welfare advocate. Thank you for your support over the past four years and let’s continue to work together to make our city, country and the world a better place for animals. Sarah
CONTENTS
BANK DETAILS: Cape of Good Hope SPCA Standard Bank Account: 0718 32858 Branch: 051001 Ref: Footprints / your name
IN MEMORY OF
have Hill’s support us again and on pages 10 and 11 you can read all about the SPCA Hill’s “Life’s Better Shared” adoption campaign, which runs for the month of October. Our ambassadors for the campaign are former Miss South Africa and TV presenter, Jo-Ann Strauss, comedian Kurt Schoonraad and radio and TV presenter, Liezel van der Westhuizen, who each care passionately about the welfare of animals and strongly support the call to adopt a pet. Hill’s are giving us R100 for every dog and cat adopted from our SPCA during the month of October, plus there’s a free Hill’s bag of food for every new animal adopted. If you are thinking of getting a pet or want to support the campaign, please visit www.lifesbettershared.co.za. Our pet care feature on page 19 deals with the serious issue of pet obesity and you can read about the SPCA’s involvement in preventing the illegal export of dogs to Angola on page 19. We also feature the trade in exotic pets (page 14 and 15) and our recent success in releasing 25 Angulate Tortoises at the Diemers-
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10 Contents and letter from the Editor
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Shop with us - Best buys for your furry friends SPCA Heroes - Just some of the amazing people who made a difference
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For your Diary - Giddy up for the SPCA Horse Show and diarise the date now for the best dog walks in SA, the SPCA Wiggle Waggle Walkathon and Woefie Wandel
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Fight against cruelty Inspectorate outreach promotes sterilisation
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October is Pet Adoption Month - read all about the new SPCA Hill’s ‘Life’s Better Shared’ pet adoption campaign SPCA Hospital - Gugulethu Good Samaritan helps injured dog Does your pet need to go on a diet?
21 SPCA in the Cape Argus Pick n Pay Cycle Tour and/or Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon
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Feature - Tortoise release highlights dangers of exotic pet trade Join the challenge and make a difference by cycling or running for TEAM
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Feature - Web sites used to source dogs for export warns SPCA Mutt of the Year teams up with Premier Wildlife Unit Update - Read about a roaming otter in Sea Point and a meerkat in Loevenstein both rescued by the SPCA Happy Tails 3
SHOP WITH US
Best buys for your furry friends…brought to you by the SPCA Vet Shop team
Book bonanza The SPCA Charity Book Sale at Canal Walk, which took place at the Vida-e court in Canal Walk between 29 June and 1 July, was a great success and raised over R40 000 for the many animals our society rescues and cares for. Just a month later, close to R17 000 was raised at the annual Cavendish Square Charity Book Sale, which took place from 23 to 26 August. Thank you to everyone who supported the sales and to those who donated books. Be sure to drop in at the next SPCA Bag a Bargain Book Sale on 6 October at the SPCA Vet Shop in Plumstead, or visit the SPCA’s second-hand book shop at its premises in Grassy Park (cnr First Road and 1st Ave, Grassy Park). Opening hours are from 9am to 4pm weekdays and from 9am to 12pm on weekends and public holidays. Photo by Terri-Leigh Boonzaier
Blank Books, situated in the Positive Imaging Gallery opposite the Biscuit Mill (368 Albert Rd) in Woodstock, stocks good quality fiction and nonfiction books as well as selected documentaries. They also sell specialist books on behalf of the Cape of Good Hope SPCA. For more information visit www.blankbooks.co.za
Every swipe counts Thanks to the support of the MySchool MyVillage MyPlanet fundraising programme, almost R48 000 has been raised this year by shoppers who selected the Cape of Good Hope SPCA as their charity. The MySchool MyVillage MyPlanet is one of the country's largest fundraising programmes, which allow shoppers to raise funds for their favourite charity by simply swiping each time they make a purchase at a participating store. To join the programme and apply for your free card visit www.myschool.co.za or call 0860 100 445.
In the name of pet identity The new City of Cape Town Animal By-Law makes it compulsory for all pets to wear some form of pet identification - either a pet id tag and/or micro-chip. Personalised brass pet identification tags are available from the SPCA at R50 each. Choose from bone-shaped tags for dogs or round tags in two sizes, suitable for dogs and cats. For more information and to order, contact Natasha Johannes, on 021 700 4141 or email: awareness@spca-ct.co.za.
Photo by Terri-Leigh Boonzaier
New SPCA Christmas Cards now in stock SPCA Christmas cards are available at R23 per five-pack from the SPCA Vet Shop in Plumstead; at the SPCA in Grassy Park; and at the St. John’s Christmas card stall at Valyland Centre in Fish Hoek. Look out for them at the Charity Christmas Card kiosks in major shopping centers from 15 October. For company and large orders contact Natasha Johannes on 021 700 4141 or email awareness@spca-ct.co.za. Special thanks to Ciplavet for sponsoring the festive new range. 4
MULTI-TASKING MADE EASY
Photo by Terri-Leigh Boonzaier
HEARTY MEALS SERVED WITH LOVE
Make feeding time a loving occasion with a pink or blue heart-shaped SPCA feeding bowl. Suitable for cats and small dogs, these bowls are available from our SPCA Vet shop while stocks last at a special price of just R30. For larger orders contact Natasha Johannes, on 021 700 4141 or email awareness@spca-ct.co.za.
Rogz’ new multi-purpose leash has six useful functions in one. Use as a long, medium or short leash, or as a shoulder leash for a relaxed walk. It can also be used to attach your dog to a nearby pole or bench, should you need to keep him or her secure for short periods. Finally, the double-leash function allows for two dogs to be walked at the same time. Choose from a variety of colours, these leashes are available from the SPCA Vet Shop at R84 each.
PUPPY SCHOOL A “BEAR” NECESSITY Megan Hagglund, the SPCA Vet Shop sales assistant, certified animal behaviourist and puppy trainer, recently opened up a puppy training school sponsored by pet nutrition experts, Hill’s. Classes are held at the SPCA Vet Shop, (6 Gabriel Road, Plumstead) on Saturday afternoons between 2 and 3pm. For more information or to book a spot for your puppy in the next class, email Megan on gbear.puppy@gmail.com or call 082 303 0391.
Ashleigh Stephan, Russell Clegg and Debbie Scott celebrated their pooches’ puppy school training graduation at the SPCA Vet Shop on 7 July 2012
TOY TIME WITH HILL’S
Receive a free toy when you buy a bulk bag of Hill’s cat or dog food at the SPCA Vet Shop in October. A complimentary catnip mouse is yours with the purchase of any 5kg bag of Hill’s cat food and a ball launcher is on the house, with the purchase of any 18kg bag of Hill’s dog food. This offer is exclusive to the SPCA Vet Shop in Plumstead.
Cape of Good Hope
SPCA Vet Shop 6 Gabriel Road, Plumstead Stockists of all leading pet product brands
All profits from product sales help the SPCA fight animal cruelty .
Trading Hours: Monday to Friday: 8am - 6pm, Saturday: 8am - 2pm
Tel: 021 761 4463
- Delivery service available 5
SPCA HEROES
Just some of the amazing people and companies who made a difference
Spreading Madiba magic Over 50 volunteers spent 67 minutes and more at the Cape of Good Hope (CoGH) SPCA on 18 July in honour of former state president, Nelson Mandela’s 94th birthday. Twenty-three South African Navy officials and 13 Metro Police officers traded their uniforms for overalls and got their hands dirty in the society’s Horse Care Unit and kennels. Also volunteering was Shireen Salie who won a charity competition through her employer, Woolworths in Blue Route Mall. She handed us a donation of R1 000 from Woolworths and spent her day volunteering in our cattery. Learners of Fairview Primary School in Grassy Park held a coin collection for 67 minutes on Mandela Day and raised R1 683.29 for the CoGH SPCA. Staff from the Milpark Business School in Claremont also visited the SPCA and brought along dozens of bags of pet food, toys, treats and blankets for the many animals rescued and cared for by our society.
Metro Police’s Nomava Gwe and Mandy Lourens help feed the dogs at the SPCA on Mandela Day
Tin collections help keep SPCA’s doors open
Dis-Chem Foundation volunteer month with 567 Cape Talk
Thanks to the many stores across Cape Town who so kindly display our society’s coin collection tins, we raised R258, 124.94 for the CoGH SPCA between January and July this year. The following are the top ten collection stores:
July was deemed volunteer month by 567 Cape Talk radio who, with the support of the Dis-Chem Foundation, aimed to encourage those doing good, to do better and to inspire others to also give back. Each day during various time slots on air, 567 Cape Talk profiled a volunteer from ten charitable organisations, one of which was the
Amount
Tin Location
R 9 377.14
PICK n PAY EXPRESS, NEWLANDS
R 6 648.21
PICK n PAY SUPERMARKET, STEENBERG
R 6 533.90
SUPERSPAR, SEA POINT
R 6 122.56
KWIKSPAR, KUILS RIVER
R 5 385.47
PICK n PAY EXPRESS, MUIZENBERG
R 5 214.62
CAMPS BAY CONTINENTAL FOOD MARKET, CAMPS BAY
R 5 022.73
KWIKSPAR, GREEN POINT
R 4 931.04
ENGEN QUICKSHOP, MEADOWRIDGE
R 4 813.84
SEVEN ELEVEN, STELLENBOSCH
R 4 623.23
KWIKSPAR, MONTE VISTA
COINS FOR A CAUSE Young girls from Micklefield Primary thoroughly enjoyed doing their “Coins for a Cause” fundraising drive in August in aid of the CoGH SPCA and raised a total of R4 285 from donated coins.
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CoGH SPCA. Each organisation was then encouraged to get their Facebook fans to like their post on the station’s Facebook page and thanks to the CoGH SPCA’s loyal supporters, the society was one of four lucky organisations to win R20 000. The money was used to purchase much needed medical supplies for the society’s hospital.
Wanna’ help? There's always a warm welcome waiting at the CoGH SPCA for adults and teens over 16 who want to volunteer. You can choose between working directly with animals, helping our fundraising team at our events or sorting through, categorising and pricing books in the lead-up to our book sales. For more information contact SPCA Volunteer Coordinator, Juan August at events@spca-ct.co.za or to help with book sorting contact Natasha Johannes on 021 700-4141 or email awareness@spca-ct.co.za.
Cape of Good Hope SPCA volunteer Di Pelman with Monty at the SPCA
Specialised gear for inspectors
One of the many roles played by SPCA Inspectors is to monitor abattoirs in and around the Cape Metropole to ensure that the welfare of animals reared for consumption is upheld at all times. For inspectors to carry out this vital work and to be allowed access into these facilities, they require suitable protective clothing. After receiving an appeal from the CoGH SPCA for a donation of protective clothing in July, Foot Wear and Safety Gear Africa in Kensington didn’t hesitate to assist and supplied the society with three pairs of gumboots and three white coats to the value of R530.
Breaking the bank for a good cause
One man’s junk is another man’s treasure
Whether it be second hand clothing, shoes and furniture, crockery, toys or bric-a-brac, the unwanted goods you donated to the CoGH SPCA’s Charity Shop raised R 372 000 in the last year. Your donations help to raise funds for the animals and at the same time helps those less fortunate who regularly shop at the store.
......For your Diary Horse show fun in support of SPCA The SPCA Charity Horse Show celebrates the beauty and excitement of show jumping in support of abused and neglected horses and ponies. This year’s show will be held on Sunday, 21 October at the Constantia Valley Riding Club (CVRC) in Brommesvlei Road, Constantia, starting at 9am. Entry for spectators is R10 and entry for children six and under will be free. Plenty of secure parking will be available. For more information visit www.spca-ct.co.za.
Inspired to make a difference after visiting the Greenpeace ship, Rainbow Warrior, while it was docked at the V&A Waterfront recently, brothers Sebastian (6) and Benjamin (3) Nel, literally broke open their piggy banks and donated their savings of R163.01 to the CoGH SPCA. Pictured are the boys with SPCA Education Officer, Lucille Boonzaier and SPCA dog, Carly.
SPCA Wiggle Waggle Walkathon Whether you own a dog or not, the SPCA Wiggle Waggle Walkathon, which this year takes place on Sunday, 2 December at the School for Maths, Science
and Technology on Firgrove Way in Tokai at 9am, is a must for anyone who loves dogs! Last year, just over 1 700 dogs and 2 300 walkers took to the streets and we are expecting more people and their dogs to take part in the 4,5km fun walk this year. For more information visit www.spca-ct.co.za. SPCA Bequest Society and Donor Recognition Luncheon Thursday, 6 December is the date to diarise for this year’s popular SPCA Bequest Society and Donor Recognition Christmas luncheon at the deluxe Vineyard Hotel in Newlands. As places are limited and expected to fill up fast, please contact Carol-Ann Brand on 021 700 4150 or email bequestofficer@spca-ct.co.za to book your tickets or table today.
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Fight against cruelty
INSPECTORATE OUTREACH PROMOTES STERILISATION
Recently, after receiving a report about large numbers of strays roaming impoverished areas in Hout Bay and Westlake, Cape of Good Hope SPCA Inspector Jeroncio Josephs initiated a mass sterilisation drive to address this problem. On a bi-weekly basis, and as resources allowed, Inspector Josephs walked the streets of Westlake Estate, Hout Bay Harbour and Imizamo Yethu, educating pet owners on the benefits of sterilisation, not only to ensure happy and healthy pets, but also promote healthy communities. Despite receiving an often lukewarm response from many pet owners, Inspector Josephs’ determined efforts resulted in him admitting around 233 animals for sterilisation at the CoGH SPCA Hospital in Grassy Park at no cost to their owners. “Since the inception of this mass sterilisation initiative, most members of the community have a better understanding of the importance of sterilisation and the work of the SPCA. Although there is still much work and education to be done, we’re 8
pleased that many pet owners have come forward to request the sterilisation of their pets and also seek our advice on other animal related matters”, said Inspector Josephs. “Sterilisation is the most effective and humane answer to addressing the problem of uncontrolled breeding and to alleviate the unnecessary suffering of thousands of animals in the Cape Metropole”, he added. To ensure an even greater impact in these areas, we require additional manpower and resources to allow us to visit these areas more often. If you can help financially, please email comms@spca-ct.co.za. If you have experience in working with animals or have previously volunteered at an animal welfare organisation and would like to donate your time, please contact the SPCA’s volunteer co-ordinator, Juan August on (021) 700-4180 or email events@spca-ct.co.za.
Right: Chicco plays with Bruce on his return from the SPCA while the boys’ mom, Elizabeth Maljan thanks SPCA Inspector Jeroncio Josephs for the SPCA’s help
Carol Petersen cuddles Diamond the cat who had just been returned to her after being sterilised
Have you registered your pets yet?
In an effort to get a realistic overview of the number of animals that inhabit the Cape Metropole and to better address animal welfare issues, earlier this year the City of Cape Town rolled out a public awareness campaign encouraging people to have their pets registered by the end of August 2012. Since then the CoGH SPCA has been helping pet owners better understand the City of Cape Town Animal By-Law and facilitated the registration of their dogs and cats. The response has been positive and the City has extended its deadline to 30 September 2012, by which time all pet owners, not just those with more pets than the prescribed amount per property, must register them. For more information on the maximum number of dogs and cats allowed per property and how to register your pets, visit www.spca-ct.co.za.
FELINE FACTS Did you know? l Cats need their food in small chunks and because a cat’s jaw can’t move sideways, they’re unable to chew large chunks of food. Please keep this in mind when feeding your feline friend. l Cats use their whiskers to estimate whether or not they can fit through an opening. Because their collar bone doesn’t connect to any other bone - but instead sits buried in muscle - cats are easily able to squeeze through tight spots.
KEY TIPS FOR CANINE CARE With spring in the air and the days starting to warm up it may be time to think about giving your dog a bath. Here are a few key tips to keep in mind after you’ve washed your dog and want to apply tick and flea treatments:
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Man accused of killing his dog charged with animal cruelty l
On Friday, 27 April, Cape of Good Hope (CoGH) SPCA Inspector Michael Herbert received a grisly report from the SAPS of a man arrested for allegedly killing his dog. When Inspector Herbert arrived at the SAPS in Lansdowne, the accused openly admitted to killing his dog and gave details of the location in Lansdowne where the slaughter had taken place. Inspector Herbert found the corpse of the severely mutilated dog in a canal and carefully removed it to the SPCA in Grassy Park. The body was then transferred to the State Vet in Stellenbosch, who performed a necropsy to determine the exact cause of death.
Charges of animal cruelty were laid under the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962 and if found guilty the accused could face jail time or a heavy fine. The CoGH SPCA has requested that should the accused be found guilty, he also be denied ownership of any animals indefinitely. “In my three years of service at the CoGH SPCA, this is definitely one of the most horrific cases of animal abuse I have come across. It is devastating to witness what a human being can do to an innocent animal. It’s some relief that as the SPCA we can take action against the perpetrator and I hope that when the case comes to court, justice is served,” said Inspector Herbert.
After washing your dog, wait at least three days before either dipping him/her or applying topical tick and flea treatments. In this way your dog's skin would have built up sufficient natural oils, essential for the effective absorption of tick and flea treatments. When dipping your dog, it is important not to towel-dry him/her. Instead allow his/her skin and fur to dry naturally. For optimal results dipping products need to be absorbed by the skin. Please be sure to follow the instructions carefully and keep bottles of dip out of children’s reach.
For advice on shampoos, grooming products and tick and flea treatments to best suit your dog, contact our SPCA Vet Shop team on 021 761 4463 or 021 700 4161. 9
October is
PET ADOPTION
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MONTH Together with Hill’s Pet Nutrition and celebrities including Jo-Ann Strauss, comedian Kurt Schoonraad and radio and TV presenter, Liezel van der Westhuizen, we’ve declared October ‘Pet Adoption Month’ to encourage more people to give a dog or cat a ‘forever home’. So committed are Hill’s to helping us increase adoptions, they are donating R100 for every pet adopted during October! Plus, each pet will get a free bag of Hill’s, the food recommended by veterinarians worldwide. “I can’t imagine my children growing up without animals. Three of my dogs are adopted and they have turned out to be wonderful and loyal companions to my family,” says Hill’s Marketing Manager, Carla Bath. “We take our job as match-makers very seriously,” says SPCA Animal Care Centre Manager, Margie Ainscow, whose team collectively has 40 years of experience in helping Capetonians find the perfect feline or canine friend. “In addition to the veterinary
checks, every single dog available for adoption is behaviourally assessed and we know each cat’s personality intimately, which reduces uncertainty for adopters and helps us recommend the right pet,” she says. Adopting a pet also makes good financial sense. Our adoption fees of R570 for a dog and R520 for a cat, includes the cost of sterilisation, first vaccination, deworming, micro-chip, an ID disc, and free medical treatment in the unlikely event that your pet falls ill in the first two weeks after being adopted. “There are so many good reasons to adopt rather than buy a pet, but for me it’s the unconditional love they seem to have for that special person who chose to give them a second chance,” says Margie.
Life’s better shared, especially with a loving pet adopted from the Cape of Good Hope SPCA.
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Find out more by visiting www.lifesbettershared.co.za or call the Cape of Good Hope SPCA (on 021 700 4140/4146). Become a Cape of Good Hope SPCA Facebook fan and/or follow us on Twitter (@SPCACape) to stand a chance of winning fabulous prizes from Hill’s Pet Nutrition during October.
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Award for 2011 SPCA and Hill’s Adoption campaign Our 2011 SPCA Hill’s “No fun without your best friend” Dog Adoption Campaign not only helped us increase adoptions by 25% but our efforts were acknowledged by the Public Relations Institute of South Africa, who awarded it a bronze PRISM award in the best NGO campaign category at their awards ceremony earlier this year. 11
UNITED EFFORT
Pilot project addresses overpopulation
Work has begun on a mass pet sterilisation pilot project, which aims to sterilise and vaccinate 70% of the total pet population living in Kayamandi in Stellenbosch by end of March 2013. The Cape of Good Hope SPCA (CoGH SPCA), as a member of the Cape Animal Welfare Forum (CAWF), has been instrumental in developing the pilot project, which is being funded by the Western Cape Department of Agriculture, the Stellenbosch Municipality and various animal welfare groups and private vets, who have committed their support. The project is the result of months of work and discussions between the CAWF and the Provincial Administration which, under Premier Zille’s leadership, has committed itself to finding long-term solutions to pet overpopulation within the Western Cape. Together with a dog and cat rabies vaccination campaign, the sterilisation project will benefit both animals and people living in the community, by reducing the spread of zoonotic diseases (i.e. diseases transmitted from animals to humans) such as mange and worms. In the first phase of the project, a pet census was conducted to determine the actual number of owned dogs and cats. In total the team counted 752 owned dogs and 340 owned cats, who along with a significant number of stray dogs and
State Vet and CoGH SPCA Director, Dr. Gininda Msiza (fifth from left) with ward councillors, volunteer census workers, Law Enforcement Officers and a pet owner cats, will benefit from the programme. Sterilising over 1000 animals is a mammoth undertaking and is only possible with the assistance of various organisations and local veterinarians, including the Animal Welfare Society Stellenbosch, Animal Rescue Organisation (ARO) and four local Community Veterinary Clinics. Together they will aim to sterilise at least 70% of the pet population within a six month time frame (i.e. within one breeding cycle) starting in midSeptember, at an average of 25 animals per day. They will work from local and remote operating theatres and ARO’s new Mass Animal Sterilisation Unit (MASU) will also be deployed to the area.
However, the success of this project is not only dependent on the number of animals sterilised, says CoGH SPCA CEO Allan Perrins, who is also Acting Chairman and coordinator for the project's steering committee. “It requires community involvement, support from Law Enforcement authorities and prioritising humane education on responsible pet ownership.” “We are thrilled that the community have been so receptive to the project and with the support we’ve received from the Stellenbosch Municipality and from an army of volunteers and several generous sponsors,” he said. “We have also built in an
education component to the project to promote responsible pet ownership, which will see the CoGH SPCA Education Team and the Humane Education Trust reach out to local schools to educate learners about the project and teach children about responsible pet ownership.” Said Allan: “It’s this kind of practical, collaborative approach that will result in us collectively making a huge, positive difference to the thousands of animals we are committed to speaking, protecting and caring for, as well as enhancing the health and well-being of the community. We look forward to rolling out a similar initiative in the Cape Metropole in the very near future”.
GUGULETHU GOOD SAMARITAN HELPS INJURED DOG The CoGH SPCA has payed tribute to a Good Samaritan in Gugulethu who faxed a handwritten note to the Society on 25 May, advising them of a severe case of animal cruelty. In his note Mlindi Dube wrote: “I saw a black dog severely injured… This dog’s right foreleg is
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broken in half and there is a long bone coming from the wound… I find its cruelty on animals on the extreme. I want the dog to be helped and the owner to be charged for ignoring that poor animal.” SPCA Inspector Fagan Vollenhoven responded immediately and found the male black cross-breed with a broken leg that had been left untreated for several weeks, with the result that the flesh had been eaten
away leaving the broken tibia exposed. The stench from the wound was overpowering, but despite the poor dog being in excruciating pain, he allowed the Inspector to lift him into his vehicle. Inspector Vollenhoven then drove with lights and sirens back to the SPCA in Grassy Park and alerted veterinarians who were on standby to administer pain relief and assess the extent of his injuries. “This rates as one of the most horrific
cases of animal cruelty we have seen in a long time,” said CoGH SPCA Inspectorate Manager Moyo Ndukwana. The SPCA has since laid charges of animal cruelty against the dog’s owner. Inspector Ndukwana said that Mr Dube’s letter of concern shows that respect for animals is shared by many, regardless of where people live and their living conditions”.
DOES YOUR PET NEED TO
GO ON A DIET? Vets warn that more than half of South African pets weigh more than is healthy and that obesity not only decreases lifespan but, more importantly, also decreases the animal’s quality of life. According to Dr Guy Fyvie, veterinary advisor to Hill’s Pet Nutrition, obesity causes a physical strain on the joints, spine, heart and other internal organs and also affects many metabolic and hormonal systems in the body, leading to problems like diabetes, bladder stones, liver damage, excess blood lipids, skin irritation and even an increase in the chance of cancer. In addition, he says, it also increases the potential need for surgery, decreases the success rate of said surgery and increases the anaesthetic risk. So, how do you know if your pet is overweight and what can you do about it? Dr Fyvie explains: “Certain breeds do seem to be more prone to obesity than others, including Labradors and Dachshunds. There are a whole range of assessment tools for cats and dogs on www.petslimmer.co.za. This includes a Body Condition Score, where people can use a measure to see how their own pet weighs up. Visit http://www.petslimmer.co.za/weight-assessment/bodyscoring to find out more.” Other signs are: l Look at your pet. If it is significantly overweight it should be obvious, although long-haired dogs and cats may ‘hide’ fat better. l Do the rib test - when you stroke your pet’s side you should be able to feel the ribs underneath the skin. l Consider the waist view - when you look at your dog from above he should have a distinctive waist
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in front of his hips. Look and listen - overweight pets are more prone to shortness of breath, overheating and stiffness.
If you suspect your pet may have a weight problem, Dr Fyvie recommends seeking the guidance of a professional, who can objectively assess an ideal target weight, correct nutrition and exercise. “Your vet should be able to help get your pet on a weight loss programme, or refer you to a practice that runs a pet slimmer clinic. You can also visit www.petslimmer.co.za to find one in your area,” he says. So does that mean we have to cut out pet treats and tasty morsels for your feline and canine friends? “Not necessarily,” says Dr Fyvie. “The occasional small meat treat is OK, but don’t over-do it. Just 100g of boerewors for a small to medium size dog is equivalent to an adult human eating 22 mini-koeksisters! In general, sweets and table scraps are not balanced foods for dogs or cats and should be avoided. Chocolate is a definite no-no as it can be toxic. Rather use pet treats specifically designed for that purpose or keep a few kibbles or the pet’s usual food for ‘treats’.
Select a slim-line model Vote for South Africa’s top Pet Slimmers October 2012 Mirror, mirror on the wall - who’s the most purrfect of them all? On 1 October voting opens for the 2012 Hill’s Pet Slimmer of the Year. Visit www.petslimmer.co.za to cast your vote and check out the weight-loss stories and drastic before-and-after photos of some of South Africa’s former fattest felines and portliest pooches. The five pets that receive the most votes by 22 October will each win R5,000 and the overall top dog (or cat) will be awarded the coveted 2012 Hill’s Pet Slimmer of the Year title. The Hill’s Pet Slimmer competition is a small part of a campaign to combat a pet obesity “epidemic”. Veterinarians warn that more than half their patients weigh more than is healthy, with diabetes, increased anaesthetic risk, mobility problems and other life-threatening conditions being the result. In a bid to shed their ‘killer kilos’, over a thousand cats and dogs have been signed up on the Hill’s Pet Slimmer programme this year alone. www.petslimmer.co.za shares pets’ weight loss journeys to inspire owners to maintain their pet’s optimum weight. Full of useful tools and healthy eating advice, the site makes keeping your pet in shape easier than ever. For more information visit www.petslimmer.co.za or speak to your vet about joining the Hill’s Pet Slimmer programme. 13
TORTOISE RE highlights dangers of exotic pet trade On 1 August we celebrated the release of 25 Angulate Tortoises into suitable wild habitats on the 183 hectare Diemersfontein Wine Estate in Wellington. The tortoises had either been rescued from veld fires or surrendered to the Cape of Good Hope SPCA Wildlife Unit as unwanted pets. It was wonderful to witness these wondrous creatures being returned back to a semi-wild environment, especially since several bear the scars, such as deformed and disfigured outer shells - of life as an exotic pet. One even had to adjust to moving about on just three feet after a dog, which used the tortoise as a chewy toy, bit its foot off! 14
During the release, SPCA Wildlife Unit Manager, Brett Glasby, spoke to invited guests, local school children and members of the media about the dangers posed by the exotic pet trade and on the conservation of wild animal populations in South Africa and around the world. “Animals are taken out of the wild on a daily basis to meet the international demand for exotic species as pets or for private collections. The removal of animals from the wild ranges from the simple,
yet illegal act of someone picking up a baby tortoise or other small animal from its natural environment, to large-scale, illegal poaching activities by organised criminals. Disturbingly, for every animal that ends up in captivity, many more will die during capture and transportation, with often devastating results for the wild population. The animals that do survive the transport and their first few months in captivity are then often intensively bred to meet the everincreasing demand for offspring,
Above: Tortoises need a proper diet and need to be in the wild Right: Owner of Diemersfontein Wine Estate, David Sonnenberg Left: SPCA Wildlife Unit Manager Brett Glasby and pupils from Wellington Preparatory prepare to release the tortoises
ELEASE which are sold into the exotic pet trade,” said Brett. He explained that when the novelty wears off and owners become bored with their exotic pets or the animal becomes too large or caring for it takes too much effort, they are either handed in to zoos, specialist animal welfare organisations (like the CoGH SPCA) or just released into the veld. “Zoos can only house so many animals and indiscriminately releasing exotic pets into the wild will either result in the animal’s death (as it is
not able to find suitable food) or it can lead to the death of indigenous animals, which may be outcompeted for vital resources. There are also concerns for the individual animal’s well-being. “Tortoises may seem like the ideal, fuss-free pet but they have very specific nutritional needs and suffer enormously if kept in isolation or left alone in the yard for the family dog to chew on their shell. Those who illegally pick them up from the roadside and feed them on a diet of
Above, Above right and Right: A Green Tree Python, a Bearded Dragon and a Black Crow were recently surrendered to the SPCA after their owners realised that they were unsuitable as pets
lettuce and cabbage are not only breaking the law but are also being unwittingly cruel,” says Brett. According to the Humane Society of the United States, internationally the exotic pet trade is a multi-billion dollar industry, second only to the drugs and weapons trades in terms of its gross worth. And locally the demand for exotic pets seems to be on the increase when considering the number of exotic species rescued by the SPCA Wildlife Unit over the past year:
29 exotic snakes 21 exotic birds l 35 indigenous pet tortoises l 4 exotic pet lizards l 61 exotic fish Says Brett: “These statistics are worrying and if we are to have any chance of protecting wildlife we need more people to join us in calling for wild animals to stay in the wild and to help us raise awareness about the dangers of purchasing exotic pets or taking animals from the wild to keep as pets.” l l
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Join the challenge
TEAM SPCA cyclists at the start of the 2012 Cycle Tour. Back: Hugo Klaasen, Harold Bond, Gerard Reisenberg, Robin Poulter, Christo Potgieter, Emile Cronje, Carin Swanepoel (Gouws), Hester Oosthuizen, Sonja Leibbrandt, Anita Jansen Van Rensburg, Glen Beckett, Mike Muller, Natascha Van Dommelen, Louis Van Dommelen, James De Jager Front: Sarah-Jean Wilkinson, Adrian de Waal, Terry-Anne Jacobs
Earlier this year 57 cyclists and 13 runners raised over R200 000 for the Cape of Good Hope SPCA by cycling and running for TEAM SPCA in the Cape Argus Pick n Pay Cycle Tour and Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon. Some were race veterans while others first timers, but all were united by their love and respect for animals and a desire to end animal cruelty. It’s this passion that inspires and motivates each cyclist and runner to train and compete in one of Cape Town’s biggest sporting events and fundraise for the SPCA - a charity whose values they share and mission they believe in. You too can be part of TEAM SPCA! It’s open to anyone who wants to make a difference to the lives of thousands of animals. Sign up now to cycle the Cape Argus Pick n Pay Cycle Tour and/or run the Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon for the CoGH SPCA in March 2013. To find out more visit www.spca-ct.co.za or contact Natasha Johannes at awareness@spca-ct.co.za or call her on 021 700 4155/41.
Here’s what some of those who competed in the Cycle Tour and Two Oceans Marathon had to say about being part of TEAM SPCA:“I have two rescue Weimaraners (one of whom I adopted via CoGH SPCA!) and I just could not imagine my life without these two amazing dogs. I ran the Two Oceans ultra-marathon and then Comrades and received incredible support from friends, family and colleagues, all of whom donated generously to CoGH SPCA. Given the especially tough weather conditions we faced running Oceans this year, it made ALL the difference and gave me inspiration to keep going!” Joanna Forlee - top Two Oceans fundraiser, 2012 “I am doing this to honour my little dog GUS (adopted from the SPCA) and to help all other homeless, unloved and abused animals out there. A truly remarkable little dog and companion, Gus has tremendous courage and gives me great joy, happiness and love.” Megan Kluyts “I decided 2012 is the year to cycle the Argus and I also decided that
Sponsor of TEAM SPCA’s Two Oceans Marathon running shirts
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while I am doing it I can just as well support an organisation in need and the SPCA jumped into my head immediately. I was helped a lot in my fundraising efforts by my wife who is an artist and donated a beautiful painting for me to auction. We raised R19 500 from the auction that was split between me and my cycling friend Robin who is also cycling for the SPCA. We trust this money will help our four legged friends many of who suffer due to us humans.” Emile Cronje - top Cycle Tour fundraiser, 2012
Sponsors of TEAM SPCA’s Cycle Tour shirts
“Two reasons encouraged me to join TEAM SPCA. Firstly this is a great opportunity to raise funds for a favourite charity and secondly it gave me a good kick in the behind to get going and actually enter the Pick n Pay Cape Argus Cycle Tour as I probably would never have done so otherwise” Lindy Croxford “Animals are our friends - we need to help them because that’s what friends do.” Juanita Krog “I am proud to say that I supported TEAM SPCA at the Argus and appeal to others to get involved in these fun fundraising initiatives.” Wendy Pope-Ellis
TEAM SPCA member Chris van Heerden at the SPCA Horse Care Unit
Make a difference
Nine of the 13 Team SPCA members Back: SPCA’s Sarah Scarth, Helen Dagut, Warren Fisher, Craig Ward Front: Marilize Burger, Theresa Mann, Megan Pentz-Kluyts, Joanna Samsonowicz, Lisa van Leeuwen, Natasha Johannes and Podgie-Pooh and Lucy
Victor Moreira
Ryan Dixon and Brigitte Meyer
Angie Georgiou and Daniel Connor
Richard Van Der Heijden
Roelof Van Wyk Delport
James Kent and Bradley Byrne
Izak Fourie
Orlando Caires
Fahwaaz Cornelius More photos on page 18
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“Protecting animal rights and preventing the unnecessary suffering of animals are just some of the reasons I rode for Team SPCA. The SPCA has always been close to my heart and the work that they do is truly amazing.” Natascha van Dommelen
Richard Kilpert
Pierre Jean Rogers
Phillippus Ferreira
“As an animal lover I have always been a great supporter of the SPCA and adopted my dog from their Society. My hope for the future is that people learn to respect animals and offer them the love that they deserve.” Marike Brits “Riding for Team SPCA was an obvious choice for me as I have my own rescue dog Dexter a Sausage Scotty cross from the SPCA. I admire the SPCA for the phenomenal work that they do which was an inspiration to me during the 2012 Cycle tour.” Bradley Byrne “Animals have unconditional love to offer and we owe it to our furry friends to do the same for them.” Angie Georghiou
Luguen Gass
Yolanda Fourie
Adriaan Nel
“I have five dogs and five cats and all of them enrich my life greatly. I support Team SPCA because all animals deserve the same respect love and compassion.” Richard Van der Heijden
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“I cannot live a day without being around animals. I have four dogs, 50 budgies, 40 geese, a potbellied pig, two horses, a parakeet and eight goldfish. If all humans could just be kind to animals or try and help just
one animal the world would really start to show real change” Terry-Ann Jacobs “I am an animal lover so I appreciate the magnificent job that the SPCA does to protect the welfare of all animals. The SPCA gave me the best dog ever. Smiley and I would highly recommend that if you are looking for a pet that you adopt from the SPCA.” Hester Oosthuizen “Loving animals makes us better people and there can’t be many that love them more than those who work for volunteer at or donate to the SPCA. So to my donors and those that I met on my SPCA tour thanks for turning your compassion into action. It speaks volumes about who you are.” Theresa Mann “What a wonderful feeling - a personal achievement made that much more special because it has benefitted dozens of sick abused and abandoned animals being cared for by the SPCA! The support we received from the SPCA was great and the generosity and encouragement from our friends and family really made training for this big race that much more do-able! Great feel-good factor - highly recommended!” Sarah, Helen and Lisa
Web sites used to source
DOGS FOR EXPORT warns SPCA
Photo by Ross Jansen
In the wake of the arrests of individuals suspected of being involved in the illegal export of dogs from South Africa to Angola, Namibia and Zimbabwe, the Cape of Good Hope (CoGH) SPCA has warned pet owners and breeders against using web sites such as Gumtree to advertise puppies and dogs for sale or “free to good homes”. From testimony received from one of the detained suspects, the CoGH SPCA has established that individuals involved in exporting dogs to Angola, scour internet sites like Gumtree, looking for suitable dogs aged between five months and two years to either buy or ‘adopt’. After the dogs are acquired they then have to endure a four to five day journey usually by road, in the back of a “bakkie” or dog trailer from Cape Town to Angola. Once in Angola the animals are sold onto buyers, some of whom place an order for a specific dog breed, age and sex. It is still
unclear whether the dogs are sold as pets, into the security business, for breeding purposes or used in organised dog fights. The CoGH SPCA recommends that owners take the following steps to protect their pets from unscrupulous persons: l If you can no longer keep your dog, it is safer to place him or her into the care of a reputable animal welfare organisation like the SPCA, who will work to find the animal a good, safe new home, rather than advertising your pet as “free to a good home”.
Don’t breed and offer puppies for sale via sites like Gumtree, as it’s difficult to guarantee where the dogs will end up. l Don’t buy puppies from internet sites such as Gumtree - rather adopt and give a rescued animal a second chance. l Before parting with your dog or puppy, please ensure the bonafides of the new owner / buyer. If at all suspicious do not hesitate to contact the SPCA and defer or cancel the sale. The CoGH SPCA also warns pet owners to protect their pets from thieves who may be stealing dogs and selling them onto dog traders operating between South Africa and Angola. l Permanent identification: Have your dogs micro-chipped to ensure that they always carry their owner’s l
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details. A microchip is a grain size chip that is painlessly inserted under the skin of the animal and when read by a scanner, will provide the owner’s name and contact details. It’s a simple, noninvasive procedure that could turn your lost pet into a found one. The SPCA recommends that dogs also wear a collar and dog tag with their owner’s contact details. Daily care and pet supervision: Pet owners should book their pets into a reputable boarding kennel or secure a house/pet sitter to care for them when the owner is travelling away from home. Secure property: Dogs that are allowed to stray and roam freely are more vulnerable to being stolen than those that are kept safe and secure inside a fenced property. 13 19
Education news
MUTT OF THE YEAR TEAMS UP WITH PREMIER
SPCA and Royal Canin highlight benefit of exercising with your pet
In an effort to teach children about responsible pet care and encourage them to exercise with their pets, the Cape of Good Hope (CoGH) SPCA Royal Canin Mutt of the Year ‘Bear’ and a local dog agility club performed an agility demonstration for over 100 children who attended the Western Province Athletics Federation Holiday Camp on 5 July at the Vygieskraal Stadium in Athlone. On the day, Western Cape Premier, Helen Zille, attended the event in her capacity as Patron of the SPCA, to inspire the children to care for and have respect for all living creatures. The children are pictured with (from left) Western Cape Premier Helen Zille, Lee-Anne Curtis-Cox with Bear, SPCA Animal Centre Manager, Margie Ainscow and Royal Canin’s Louise McQueen.
International Animal Week-Ribbons now on sale takes place on the last day of the third term. On this day some school learners partake in an animal dressup day and buy an SPCA ribbon priced at R5 to show their support. Seen here are regular “Civvies for SPCA” supporters Ferndale Primary
Principal Mr. A. Lewis, Grade 2 educator Miss J. Neil and learners Jordan Gysman, Werner Steyl, Jamie de Lilly and Aaliah Green. To purchase ribbons, contact Lucile, Thembi or René on (021) 700-4181.
Old Mutual Staff Volunteer Fund Trust
The task of preventing cruelty to animals continues to be a huge challenge for the SPCA and each day those of us who care about the welfare of animals stand in awe of what SPCA inspectors, hospital and kennel staff go through to improve the lives of so many animals. However, none of this would be possible without your ongoing support. During International Animal Week (4 - 10 October), we invite you to be part of the SPCA Animal Week Ribbon Sales Drive, which aims to promote kindness and compassion and raises much needed funds for all the animals in the SPCA’s care. 20
Children play an integral part in International Animal Week, as thousands of school children worldwide actively participate in various animal-themed activities. During this time schools across Cape Town raise awareness of animals by allowing learners to participate in “Civvies for SPCA”, which usually
The CoGH SPCA was overjoyed to receive a generous donation of R28 300 from the Trustees of the Old Mutual Staff Volunteer Fund Trust in June this year to put towards vehicles costs, printing and stationery expenses for the SPCA Ani-Pals programme, that educates school learners about responsible pet care. Throughout the year, the SPCA Education Team teaches school children about responsible pet care, animal welfare principles and the goals and mission of the SPCA. Education Officers visit preschools and primary schools
throughout the greater Cape Town area to give talks, show DVDs and present the SPCA’s Ani-Pal Education programme, which includes an interactive puppet show and the handing out of classroom activity booklets. The puppet show, aimed at grades 2 to 5, teaches learners about the importance of the five Ani-Pal care rules: food and water, shelter, health, exercise and sterilisation. As part of our Ani-Pals education programme, school children from impoverished communities are also encouraged to bring their pets for free sterilisation and parasite control.
Wildlife Unit Update
ROAMING OTTER
IN SEA POINT RESCUED BY SPCA In the early hours of Wednesday, 15 August, the Cape of Good Hope (CoGH) SPCA Wildlife Unit was called out by the SAPS to help rescue a roaming, displaced otter in Sea Point. While on patrol in the area, SAPS officers spotted the wild animal moving under cars in Mercaneen and Conifer Roads, but soon lost sight of the animal due to bad weather conditions and cancelled the SPCA’s call out. Later that evening, members of the public were surprised to find the otter hiding in a local restaurant and immediately alerted the SPCA. For two hours SPCA Inspector Brett Glasby, aided by the police and concerned members of the public, played cat and mouse with the adult male otter, which was eventually trapped, unharmed although distressed by the ordeal. “We suspect he may have come from the Urban Park in Green Point,” said Brett who added that it’s not uncommon for otters to stray from their families and wander into nearby residential areas. “In the last year we have rescued six otters in areas such as Hout Bay, Kalk Bay and even in Athlone,” he said.
Photo by Terri-Leigh Boonzaier
The otter was taken to the SPCA’s new Short Term Wildlife Care Facility in Grassy Park, where he received a health check and will shortly be released at a suitable location. “Sadly we cannot release him back where he came from because
chances are that he would be forced to disperse again, probably by a younger male otter,” said Brett. The SPCA has cautioned the public to avoid trying to catch injured and distressed wildlife, as this may cause the animal to panic and put
them at risk of going into stress induced shock. Rather keep an eye on the animal and immediately contact the CoGH SPCA Wildlife Unit on 021 700 4158/59 or after hours and over weekends on 083 326 1604.
Alert supporter helps save meerkat
Photo by Terri-Leigh Boonzaier
Responding to a call from a concerned member of the public, SPCA inspectors made a rare find on Tuesday, 28 August, when they picked up a two-year-old male meerkat in Loevenstein. Also known as suricate, these highly gregarious animals live in large social groupings with a definite social hierarchy. While they primarily feed on insects, the meerkat diet also includes lizards, snakes, spiders and plants. Says SPCA Wildlife Inspector Brett Glasby, “While meerkats can be found all over South Africa, very few are found in Cape Town. This one in particular was far outside its natural distribution range and it was immediately clear by the animal’s behaviour that it had been hand-raised. “Made popular by the movie ‘The Lion King’, meerkats are often desired as household pets. However, due to their high social needs and aggression upon reaching sexual maturity, these are not ideal animals to keep as pets. In fact it is illegal to keep a meerkat as a pet in the
Western Cape. Only permitted facilities may keep them.” While the owner did come forward to claim the meerkat, the SPCA could not return the animal as the owner didn’t possess a permit. After being in the care of the SPCA Wildlife Unit team for just under a week, the meerkat was taken to a sanctuary at the instruction of CapeNature, where he will undergo long-term care and spend his time in the company of other meerkats. Should you ever encounter a meerkat, other than attempting to corner or catch the animal, contact the SPCA’s Wildlife Unit on 021 700-4158/4159 or after hours and on weekends on 083 326 1604 immediately. 21
Happy TAILS
Sunny ending for Sandi Sandi came to the SPCA as a rescue dog in March 2012. Our kennel team knew that someone would fall for her happy and loving disposition, but they had to be patient to find her happily-everafter ending. That came in August when she was adopted by David Kimberley and his partner Agnieszka Polaska, who shared this with us: “Agnieska and I wanted a dog to choose us and pretty much right from the beginning we took a mutual liking to Sandi. When I stroked her she enjoyed it. She looked at me longingly with her beautiful eyes saying ‘please take me home’. This is how I knew she was the one! “Sandi has such a special and unique personality, full of love and loads of energy. Her hobbies include lying on the couch and watching TV on her back, running on the beach and playing ball. She’s so smart she’s even started to understand Polish! Our girl has picked up on many commands and loves orders like ‘let’s dance’ during which she will stand up and put her front paws in our hands. “Thank you, SPCA. We love Sandi so much that we can’t imagine our home without her happy face! We are so grateful to have her in our lives.”
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Ever wondered what happens to animals once they have been rehomed by the SPCA? Here are a few happyever-afters to warm your heart!
Purring pair a package deal
Rescued lone ranger finds his match
When Meghan and Peter Tucker visited the SPCA towards the end of July, looking to adopt a cat, they didn’t expect to pick up a ‘doubledeal’: “After our cats died, we came to the SPCA looking for a new addition to our family. There we found Gina a tortoiseshell who closely resembled one of our old cats and her roommate Spikie, a small adult tortoiseshell. While we were getting to know them in their cubicle, a couple peered in through the viewing pane, said "No, too ugly" and walked away. “While Gina and Spikie may not necessarily impress judges of a beauty contest, they simply ooze character, warmth and love. They bound around like kittens, taking turns to chase each other around our house in Noordhoek. Spikie is always keen for a game of tag while Gina ‘talks’ when she wants attention. Spikie also enjoys ‘sunning’ herself on top of the budgie cage. These two “ugly ducklings” have brought so much joy and happiness to our home and have taken to sleeping next to our daughter, Jenna and son, Andrew. What amazes us is that Spikie was constantly overlooked for nine months while she waited to be adopted. Those who came looking to adopt kittens or “good-looking” adults certainly missed out by overlooking these two lovely cats!
Bobby (formerly known as Major) came to the SPCA in July 2012 after being rescued as a stray on Table Mountain. When his owners couldn’t be found he was put up for adoption and in mid-August his lovely temperament paved the way to his new home in Sea Point. “I absolutely fell in love with Major when I saw him and read his description on the SPCA website,” said Colleen Freeland who’d made a promise to herself to adopt a dog once she had settled into her new home after relocating to Cape Town from Johannesburg. “I've had animals all my life and when I went in and met him, my belief that he was the dog for me was further confirmed. I’ve renamed him Bobby and amazingly this obedient boy responded to the change almost immediately. There's simply no other way to describe him than as a little gentleman. We go for walks twice a day and when he doesn’t accompany me to work he’s pampered at home by my niece. Behind Bobby’s gorgeous brown eyes is an amazing little personality. He’s a real mommy’s boy and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
Long road ends in happiness for Lady Lea When she arrived at the SPCA in September 2011, Lady Lea was found in a neglected and emaciated condition. She looked like a bag of bones and her front hoof was badly split. Under the care of the SPCA Horse Care Unit she was restored to health and adopted out to a new owner who continued the treatment, but recommended she be re-adopted to a home environment. Lady Lea found her happily-ever-after in July 2012 when she met her current owner, Marietjie Stander, who shared this with us: “I’m the principal of a school in Bellville, for children with special needs. We use horses for therapy and since we had only one horse and the number of children at the school had increased, we knew what the best option was. “When we visited the SPCA we were very happy with Lady Lea as well as her lovely temperament, which we knew would suit our school. And the rest, you could say, is history. We are now slowly introducing her to our children and since her arrival, Lady Lea has settled in nicely. The children are very impressed with her name as one of the other horses is called Prince Rupert. Now we have royalty on the farm!”
Please, leave your love where they will find it.... Your legacy can help to create a better future for animals
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.
Cape of Good Hope
The Cape of Good Hope SPCA Bequest Society For further information please contact: Bequest and Major Donor Officer Cape of Good Hope SPCA, P.O. Box 3, Plumstead 7801 Tel: 021-700 4150, Fax: 021-705 2127 bequestofficer@spca-ct.co.za www.spca-ct.co.za