Footprints Magazine by Sheila McCallum

Cape of Good Hope

We speak for, protect and care for animals

ISSUE 3, 2011

Get ready to Wiggle Waggle

New Animal By-Law Passed

Adoptions rocket campaign success

Cape of Good Hope

Letter from

the Editor

ISSUE 3, 2011 EDITORIAL SARAH SCARTH, LAMEES MARTIN AND KELLY O’BRIEN 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 SALLY MELLISH 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.

BANK DETAILS: Cape of Good Hope SPCA Standard Bank Account: 0718 32858 Branch: 051001 Ref: Footprints / your name

Dear Friends International Animal Week (3 - 10 October) is one week a year when we celebrate the important role animals play in our lives, whether as our loyal companions or as fellow creatures we share our planet with. This year on World Animal Day (4 October) we had further cause for celebration after achieving a 290% increase in the number of dogs adopted in September, thanks to the CoGH SPCA and Hill’s Pet Nutrition “no fun without your best friend” campaign. You can read more about the campaign on page 10 and 11, which encouraged Capetonians to adopt rather than buy a dog. We were blown away with how many celebrities, sporting stars, political leaders and media personalities responded to our invitation to get involved. Nobody we approached said no to us and they all actively promoted the campaign through their

various social networking pages during the campaign month. We’re keeping fingers crossed that the momentum created will continue through the summer months, especially as the number of animals being admitted to our animal care centre continues to increase. More good news is that construction has begun on the SPCA’s new Short-Term Wildlife Care Facility at our centre in Grassy Park (details on page 17). Funded by the National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund, it really is exciting that by April/May 2012, Cape Town will have a new, dedicated facility where the SPCA will provide temporary care to injured and displaced wildlife. With summer around the corner it’s time for South Africa’s biggest dog walk - the SPCA Royal Canin Wiggle Waggle Walkathon, which takes place on Sunday 20 November at the School for Maths, Science and

Contents 3 4 5

Contents and letter from the Editor

News - SPCA book sales generates R80 000

Report Animal Cruelty:

A/H Emergency: 083 326 1604 www.spca-ct.co.za

12 7

Upcoming events - It’s almost time to wiggle, waggle and walk! PLUS diarise the Christmas SPCA Horse Show

SPCA Vet Shop updates Christmas treats for your pets and free giveaways with Rogz and Hill’s

Tel: 021 700 4158/9

Technology in Tokai. This year we’ve got lots more entertainment planned for after the event and a wider selection of food and product stalls for you to enjoy before and after the walk. Further details are on page 8 or at www.spca-ct.co.za. Also, be sure to diarise the Christmas SPCA Horse Show, which will be held at the Constantia Valley Riding Club/S.A.R.D.A on Brommersvlei Road, Constantia on 10 and 11 December. It’s a multi-disciplined non-graded event open to riders of all ages and a Christmas market and children’s entertainment area are new features for this year’s event. We look forward to bringing you news of these wonderful SPCA events in our next issue and wish you a peaceful and blessed Festive Season with our sincere thanks for your support during 2011. ’til next time Sarah

News roundup and upcoming events - Ride or Run for TEAM SPCA

Animal Care Centre - SPCA dog adoptions rocket Feature - Why humane education is essential for peaceful, sustainable communities Education update - CoGH SPCA Patron and Premier of the Western Cape, Helen Zille launches new SPCA AniPal Education Programme SPCA Hospital - The importance of early sterilisation

22 23

Wildlife Unit Update sod turned on new Short Term Wildlife Care Facility

Feature - Is your dog naughty or misunderstood? Understanding why your dog barks too much, digs up your garden and chews your shoes Inspectorate Update SPCA hopeful new Animal Control Bylaw will prevent cruelty Happy Tails 23 SPCA Bequest Society Christmas Luncheon book now! 3

News & Hot Tips

Books for Good Twelve months since the SPCA book shop opened at the Cape of Good Hope SPCA in Grassy Park, almost R80 000 has been generated from sales of second-hand, quality books sold through the shop and at the Canal Walk SPCA Charity Book Sale in July and the Cavendish Square Charity Book Sale in August.

This would not have been possible without our supporters generously donating hundreds of books, the help of our volunteers who collect and sort through books all year round and the Canal Walk Foundation and Cavendish Square Shopping Centre. The SPCA Book Shop, located at the CoGH SPCA (corner 1st Avenue and First Road, Grassy Park) is open every Wednesday and Friday from 10am to 2pm and on the following Saturdays from 8am to 12pm: l 26 November 2011

28 January 2012 25 February 2012 l 31 March 2012 For more information on book sales or donations please contact Natasha Johannes on 021 700 4155 or email awareness@spca-ct.co.za l SPECIAL OFFER! The first 20 Footprints readers to visit the SPCA Book Shop and present a copy of this edition of Footprints will be entitled to select and purchase five fiction books for only R50. l l

Sharing is caring

They say no man is an island and the same is true for the many animal welfare organisations in the Western Cape, which collaborate and support each other to benefit thousands of animals in need. In the spirit of ubuntu, the CoGH SPCA will always share the large donations of pet food it receives periodically, with other animal welfare organisations in the Western Cape. Recently after receiving a generous donation of pet food

from Lucky Pet (part of Oceana Brands Ltd), the SPCA shared the donation with the following organisations:l The Animal Welfare Society l Adopt a Pet l Cat Trapping Network l Cat Action and Trapping l SPCA Beaufort West l SPCA Breede Valley l SPCA Worcester l SPCA Franschhoek l Various feral cats colony managers.

The following people have generously contributed towards the production and mailing of this magazine: Sednye and Raymond Bey-Leveld - In loving memory of Purdy Liz Williamson - In memory of Sir Gordon McCleveland, Scottie and Fluffy Shaughn Preiss - In loving memory of Megan and O.J Hazel Johnson - In loving memory of Terry and Sandy Astrid Austerfield - Dedicated to Ginza and Petra Santa Morom and James Allen - In loving memory of Appel, Pikkie, Toffel and Patches Phyllis Classe - In memory of Neville and Christopher Mrs Y Burmeister - In loving memory of darling Scoobie

Cape of Good Hope

SPCA Vet Shop 6 Gabriel Road, Plumstead Trading Hours: Monday to Friday: 8am to 6pm Saturday: 8am to 2pm Tel: 021 761 4463

Christmas treats for your pets The Festive Season is a busy time for most people with lots of shopping to do, parties to attend, presents to wrap and plenty of cooking and eating to get through! If you’re worried your pets will feel a little left out while you’re busy preparing for and celebrating Christmas, then visit the SPCA Vet Shop in Plumstead, which has a wide range of doggy treats and toys, guaranteed to keep your dog happy and well-behaved these holidays. Here are a few more tips for the festive season:l Give your dog a new chewy toy on Christmas morning to keep them busy while you’re cooking and

entertaining. Pick durable chew toys that will last beyond the holidays.

Fill their Christmas stockings with treats such as dry sausage, chews, hooves and biscuits so that you are not tempted to give them titbits from the Christmas table that may upset their tummies. ’Tis the season of giving so remember to spoil your furry friend with something special, such as a new collar and lead, squeaky ball, chewy soft toys or scratch post for cats. For more great gift ideas visit the SPCA Vet Shop open Monday to Friday from 8am to 6pm and on Saturdays from 8am to 2pm, contact 021 761 4463 or email them at vetshop@spca-ct.co.za.

Free giveaways with Rogz and Hill’s During November and December, while stocks last, get a free funky Rogz reflective lead (valued at up to R59) when you buy Hill’s Science Plan Puppy (3kg bag or bigger) and a cool Rogz Elastocat collar (valued at R69) when purchasing a Hill’s Science Plan Kitten (2kg bag or bigger) at the SPCA Vet Shop. The Hill’s Science Plan Healthy Development range of complete and precisely balanced foods help puppies and kittens grow strong, healthy and happy. They are made with high quality, easily digestible ingredients, no unnecessary fillers and totally natural colourings, flavourings and preservatives. Worldwide, vets feed Hill’s to their own pets more often than any other brand of pet food because it is the very best you can do for your pet.

SPCA Vet Shop delivery service Our door-to-door delivery service helps make shopping at the SPCA Vet Shop even easier! Once we receive confirmation of your order and payment, your goods will be delivered within 1 - 2 days. There’s a minimum delivery fee of R35 and all deliveries are subject to stock availability. Call us on 021 761 4463 or email vetshop@spca-ct.co.za for further details.

Oops…

In the last issue of Footprints (Issue 2, 2011) the article 'Wanted: tick and flea treatments' incorrectly states that Capstar kills all fleas and ticks. This should have read that Capstar is effective in killing fleas only. We apologise for this error.

ACSA staff help animals on Mandela Day In celebration of Mandela Day on 18 July, the Cape of Good Hope SPCA encouraged people to devote 67 minutes of their time to helping animals at their facility in Grassy Park. Gareth Bain, Communications Officer at Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) Cape Town International Airport responded to the request. “After reading about the recent dog attacks in the informal settlement of Sweet Home Farm, Philippi and the great work the SPCA was doing in the area, we decided that the SPCA really deserved that extra bit of help,” he said. A group from ACSA Cape Town International Airport spent over 67 minutes at the SPCA and were not afraid to get stuck in helping out in

Cecilia Engelbrecht, Coordinator: Infrastructure Management and Control at Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) Cape Town International Airport at the SPCA HCU the SPCA’s kennels, cattery and horse care unit. While some cleaned animal cages, others mucked stables and paddocks, fed and groomed horses, walked and socialised the dogs and most importantly, gave lots of animals plenty of t.l.c.

SPCA donation boxes make giving easy The following vet shops and veterinary practices have generously made space available for an SPCA donation box in their stores or practices, thus making it easier for SPCA supporters to donate gifts in kind:SPCA Vet Shop, Plumstead, 021 761 4463, Animal Clinic, Brackenfell 021 981 3811, Citivet, Montevista 021 558 2933 Soneike Vet Shop, Kuilsriver 021 903 8946 Van Riebeeckshof Vet Shop, Welgedacht 021 913 9066, Graanendal Vet Shop, Graanendal 021 979 2068, De Ville Vet Shop, Durbanville 021 979 1660, Canine Spa,

Durbanville 021 975 3804, Vet at Century, Canal Walk, 021 552 8988, Absolute Pets, Canal Walk, 021 555 7633, Vetclin, Tableview 021 557 8877, Vet Clinic, Milnerton 021 552 6445, Weskus Animal Clinic, Melkbosstrand 021 553 5335 Special thanks to Plastics for Africa for generously sponsoring the high quality plastic donation boxes. Should you have a veterinary practice or vet shop and would like to become a donation drop off point for the CoGH SPCA, contact Natasha Johannes on 021 700 4155 or email awareness@spca-ct.co.za.

CHRISTMAS CAKE RAFFLE

In June the Mosaic Association of South Africa launched their first national community service project ‘More than cats and dogs’ to create awareness about the SPCA and our mission to speak, protect and care for all animals, not just cats and dogs. Mosaic Association members from across the country created around 200 30x30 cm mosaic boards depicting domestic, wild

and farmyard animals and donated these artworks to their local SPCA. Pictured here is Fawzia Gydien, Ryan and Charnelle Skipp, Izak and Miemie Venter, Igsaan Gydien, Nicola and Kayla Skipp, David and Dean Venter of the Mosaic Association of South Africa with some of the 27 beautiful mosaics donated to the Cape of Good Hope SPCA, displayed at the reception area.

This gorgeous, animal-themed Christmas cake, donated to the CoGH SPCA by the SA Cake Decorators Guild (Fish Hoek), could be on your Christmas table this year. Just R10 buys you a raffle ticket for this 20 cm animal-themed cake. The draw will take place on 13 December at the SPCA’s Bequest Society and Donor Recognition luncheon at the Vineyard Hotel in Newlands and the winner will be notified. Tickets are available from CoGH SPCA in Grassy Park or at the SPCA Vet Shop, 6 Gabriel Road, Plumstead. For more information, please call Carol-Ann Brand on 021 700 4150 or email bequestofficer@spca-ct.co.za

News Updates

Thinking about riding in the Pick n Pay Cape Argus Cycle Tour or running the Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon (56km or 21km) next year? How about letting our animals ‘gain from your pain’ by riding or running for TEAM SPCA and making your race count for more! Here’s how it works:-

Pick n Pay Cape Argus Cycle Tour The CoGH SPCA will enter you on our charity bond (we’ll pay for it) and handle your entry by liaising with the Cycle Tour office. If you’ve already entered that’s no problem - let us have your details and we’ll liaise with the Cycle Tour office to transfer your entry to our charity bond. Here are some of the benefits of riding in TEAM SPCA:l Guaranteed entry; l A start time of no later than 08:45. (The last start is at approximately 10:00am). Bond members who qualify for an earlier start will still be seeded accordingly with the option to drop down to ride with their teammates; l Special ‘goody bag’; l Special area at registration for collection of race packs; l Receive a limited edition TEAM SPCA cycle shirt; l And you’ll be personally featured in our Footprints magazine and on our website as one of the TEAM SPCA riders. In return we’ll need you to commit to raising a minimum of R3 000 for the Cape of Good Hope SPCA over six months (that’s until end of March 2012) or R2 700 if you’ve already entered and paid. You won’t be alone though - we’ll offer you lots of fundraising advice and tips, and we’ll also give you a letter to help you encourage your colleagues, friends and family to support you. All donations need to be made online via www.doit4charity.co.za, which means you can see what progress you’re making in reaching your goal and you don’t have to

handle any money directly. If you’re interested please contact Natasha Johannes on 021 700 4155 or email her at awareness@spcact.co.za or call 021 700 4155/41.

Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon As the race organisers require each participant to enter personally, we encourage you to enter online and then email us confirmation of your entry to awareness@spca-ct.co.za . To run as a member of TEAM SPCA in the Two Oceans Marathon 2012 we’ll need you to commit to raising R2 500 for the Cape of Good Hope SPCA over six months (before the end of April 2012) using the www.doit4charity.co.za website. Here are some of the benefits:l You’ll receive a limited edition TEAM SPCA running shirt; l We’ll give you a special ‘goody bag’; l And you’ll be personally featured in the SPCA’s Footprints magazine and on our website as one of the TEAM SPCA runners. Online entries for the 56km ultra marathon open on 5 October 2011 and on 9 November for the 21km

half marathon. Visit www.twooceans marathon.org.za for details. We’ll then send you a letter confirming your participation in TEAM SPCA - Two Oceans Marathon 2012 and help you to set up a fundraising page on www.doit4charity.co.za We’ll also give you advice and tips on how to go about raising money and give you a letter to encourage your colleagues, friends and family to support you.

Tarryn Beretta (centre) cycled for the SPCA in the Pick n Pay Cape Argus Cycle Tour 2010 Since donations are made online via www.doit4charity.co.za, you won’t need to collect any money and you’ll be able to go online to see how far away you are from reaching your goal. If you’re interested please contact Natasha Johannes on 021 700 4155 or email her at awareness@spcact.co.za or call 021 700 4155/41.

Make SPCA a winner with PetAlive Enter the PetAlive Charity Drive competition between 10 October and 12 December 2011 and you could be the lucky winner of a PetAlive Hamper valued at R700 and one year’s Health Insurance plan for your cat or dog through MediPet*. PLUS for every entry received, PetAlive will donate R1 to the Cape of Good Hope SPCA! Here’s how to enter: l Visit the PetAlive competition page l http://www.petalive.co.za/pet

alive/competitions.htm Pick up an entry form at the Feelgood Health shop, 8 Gabriel Rd, Plumstead or at the SPCA Vet Shop at 6 Gabriel Rd, Plumstead, Cape Town. l All entrants are required to enter their name and email address for successful entry to the competition, with a maximum of 10 entries allowed per person. Please refer to http://www.petalive.co.za/petalive/ competitions.htm for terms and conditions. l

Christmas SPCA Horse Show This year Christmas cheer will abound at the popular SPCA Horse Show, which takes place on 10 and 11 December at the Constantia Valley Riding Club (CVRC), Brommersvlei Rd, Constantia. The weekend event is the largest charity horse show in the Western Cape and benefits the SPCA’s Horse Care Unit in Grassy Park, which cares for abused, abandoned, sick and injured horses, ponies and donkeys. Generously co-sponsored by Abax Investments and Mr and Mrs Jack Mitchell and family, the weekend event will present showing classes and a gymkhana from 9am on Saturday 10 December and showjumping classes from 8am on Sunday 11 December, with a Christmas market, food stalls and children’s entertainment on both days. Fully endorsed by the Western Province Horse Society, the show is open to riders of all ages and is regarded within the Cape riding fraternity as a wonderful practice event for young riders and those

bringing on novice horses. “It’s a lot of fun for the riders, their family and spectators”, said SPCA Events Manager Juan August who has organised six SPCA Horse shows. “There is something for everyone - from Little League classes for riders aged 10 and younger to the SPCA Championship show jumping class for more experienced show jumpers wanting to practice for future graded events”. “The shows have enjoyed wonderful support over the past 15 years and we anticipate that this year’s Christmas theme will make the event extra special”, he said. Entry fees for the SA Riding classes

Left: 2010 Victor lodorum winner Roxanne Joubert on Money Mover

late show jumping entries on the day R120 and R80 for the practice jumping and R100 for late entries on the day. Prizes will be awarded to the top 4 places, with rosettes to all other places. A ground levy of R50 per horse will be charged. Entrance for spectators is free and a parking fee of R30 will be charged per car. Cars with horse boxes will have free entry.

are R50 per class or R170 for six classes; Little League classes are R40 per class or R110 for 4 classes, R100 per show jumping class and for

For more information visit www.spca-ct.co.za or contact Juan August on (021) 700 4180/41 or email events@spca-ct.co.za for programme details or to book a stand at the Christmas market.

at SA’s biggest dog-walk with the SPCA and

Whether you own a dog or not, the SPCA Royal Canin Wiggle Waggle Walkathon on Sunday, 20 November 2011 in Tokai, Cape Town is a must for anyone who loves dogs! Last year, just over 1 700 dogs and 2 300 walkers took to the streets and organisers, Cape of Good Hope (CoGH) SPCA and dog and cat health nutrition manufacturer Royal Canin, are expecting more people and their dogs to take part in the 4,5km fun walk this year. Starting and finishing from the School for Maths, Science and Technology on Firgrove Way, the SPCA Royal Canin Wiggle Waggle Walkathon is all about the dogs and is an opportunity for their owners, friends and family to have a fun day out with their canine friends and help raise funds for the CoGH SPCA. “It’s such a feel-good event for everyone taking part that each year we see people traveling from across Cape Town to be part of this very special walk. You can’t help but be mesmerised by the huge number and different breeds of dogs all together in one place; all getting along and happy to be walking together”, says SPCA Events Manager Juan August. “The Wiggle Waggle’s popularity is also testament to the growing number of people who understand what it means to be a responsible pet owner, as the majority of dogs we interact with are in excellent health”, says Royal Canin Area Sales Manager, Western Cape, Lara Portlock. And there’s another good reason to take part - the MySchool MyVillage

MyPlanet fundraising programme, which last year donated R17 510 to the CoGH SPCA after the 2010 walkathon, has again pledged an extra R10 to the SPCA for every dog entered. Once the walk starts at 9am sharp, a train of dogs and walkers will meander through the streets around the school, with water points for dogs and their owners conveniently located along the route. Marshals and traffic officials will ensure the safety of the walkers and medical and veterinary crews will be provided by the CoGH SPCA and Royal Canin to ensure everyone crosses the finish line in good shape. Every participant will receive a goody bag at registration and after the walk the organisers will hand out spot prizes and participants will have the opportunity to discuss their dog’s nutritional needs with Royal Canin staff and veterinarian at their exhibition stand. Before and after the event there will be a wide variety of food stalls and lots of family entertainment,

Satara Lumb with Quila from Claremont at the 2010 walkathon

Dogs love to Wiggle Waggle for the SPCA

Last year, just over 1 700 dogs and 2 300 walkers took to the streets

such as a dog agility display, pony rides, face-painting, a jumping castle and more. Royal Canin’s Lara Portlock cautioned that owners with old dogs, dogs with joint problems or short-nose breeds should consider consulting with their veterinarian before committing to taking part in the walkathon. Puppies under four months are not permitted to take part and owners of large breed dogs 18 months or younger, should consider walking a shorter distance, as extended walking can put undue pressure on delicate skeletal

structures and muscles and can impact their growth plates and affect joint development.

Entries cost R30 per person and R20 per dog and children in prams are free. For more information and to enter online visit www.spca-ct.co.za. Alternatively contact the CoGH SPCA on 021 700 4141/80. 9

SPCA dog adoptions rocket More Capetonians agree there’s no fun without your best friend

iff and Gareth Cl abale Moloi, M , s i s es Pl u sd Ann Mol, Sia 5fm’s Leigh-

Professional film maker Marc Bow, his wife Genevieve, film producer and their daughter Mia and dog Reggie

Andrew and Brian Chaplin, of SA band Locnville

Actor Robert Bester a.k.a Zach from 7de Laan with Jack

Heart 104.9 fm’s Diggy Bongz, Irma G and Pavl Snodgrass

Former SA cricketer, Adrian Kuiper with Cody Jeremy and Jacqui Mansfield with Alex and Jesse

Carla Bath, Marketing Manager for Hill’s Pet Nutrition and her SPCA adopted dog Daisy

Above: Heart 104.9 fm’s Saskia Falken Kfm’s Ryan O’Connor, Jeremy Harris and Charmaine Noy with SPCA’s Sarah Scarth and SPCA adopted dog Toby

Right: SA singer Keeno Lee with Lucky

The Cape of Good Hope (CoGH) SPCA and Hill’s Pet Nutrition celebrated International Animal Week (3 - 10 October) with a 290% increase in the number of dogs adopted from the CoGH SPCA during the month of September, thanks to their “No fun without your best friend” awareness campaign. The awareness campaign, which was supported by dozens of wellknown South Africans, celebrities and media personalities, aimed to encourage Capetonians to adopt rather than buy a dog. Driven mainly through social net10

working sites such as Facebook and Twitter, the campaign aimed to dispel myths around adoption and highlight the benefits of adopting from the 139 year old animal welfare organisation, which each year admits thousands of stray and surrendered dogs.

Goodhope fm’s Nigel Pierce and Sandra Rosenberg with SPCA staff, adopters and their dogs at the Goodhope fm studios

“During September we attracted almost 500 new Facebook fans and the number of people following us on Twitter has grown by 250%”, said CoGH SPCA’s Sarah Scarth. “This increased online activity has directly resulted in more animals finding loving new homes and demonstrated the power of social networking in improving the lives of animals”, she said. “What’s so encouraging is that many more people than a month ago

have had their eyes opened to how many awesome dogs there are at the SPCA and even if they aren’t ready to adopt now, we are hopeful that if they ever do, they will choose to come to us first”, said Sarah. One of the first people to get on board was Vodacom Stormers Coach, Rassie Erasmus, who said after his visit to the SPCA in Grassy Park: “You have to get down to the SPCA and see the number of amazing dogs they have available

Soli Philander with Tia Emir Jacobs with his new adopted dogs Dennis and Ellie Jo-Ann Strauss

Above: Leseqo Letsholo with son Leneo and their SPCA adopted dog, Toffee

Right: Michelle and Riaan GarforthVenter Mr SA 2011 Denver Burns

Premier Zille gives SPCA adoption campaign a thumbs up

Olympic swimming gold medal winner Roland Schoeman

SA band IceProject

Reality TV star and radio personality Clayton Morar

photo by Tame d and Framed

photo by Tamed and Framed Pet Photography

SA band Captain Stu band members James Klopper, Ryan McArthur, Jon Shaban, Ryk Otto and dog Bafana

Comedian Kurt Schoonraad and Algebra

Left: Pro Surfer and model Roxy Louw for adoption. It really isn’t a sad place at all and all the dogs are so well socialised and would make great family pets”. Others who gave the campaign their endorsement and helped raise awareness through Twitter and Facebook included Western Cape Premier Helen Zille, Jo-Ann Strauss, Roxy Louw, Michelle and Riaan Garforth-Venter, Roland Schoeman, Jacqui and Jeremy Mansfield, Kurt Schoonraad, Ryan O’Connor and the

Kfm Breakfast team, GoodHope fm’s Nigel Pierce and Gareth Cliff and Sias du Plessis from 5fm, to name a few. So effective has the campaign been that Hill’s Pet Nutrition South Africa’s marketing manager, Carla Bath went a step beyond confirming her company’s support for the campaign by being one of the first to adopt a dog, Daisy, from the CoGH SPCA. “The Hill’s SPCA Adopt a Dog campaign is very close to my heart. When you give a rescued pet a

Vodacom Stor mers coach R assie Erasmus Nikki and Ca and his daug rli with SPCA hters ’s Jonty, Dais y and Puddles second chance at love, you start off thinking ‘how lucky they are’ and as they charm their way into your heart and family you realise ‘how lucky am I’”, she says. Special thanks to sponsors Hill’s Pet Nutrition; Saatchi & Saatchi Cape Town for the pro bono poster and t-shirt design; Lauren Beukes (3rd year design student at Stellenbosch University) for the fantastic pictures used in all the artwork; Mustard Marketing for the pro bono pamphlet,

Pet Photograp hy

WP rugby players Marcel Brache, Demetri Catrakilis, Tiger Bax, and Tim Whitehead with Rassie Erasmus

Facebook and email design work; Sandy Kennedy of Ergo Sports Models; photographer Sally Mellish of Black Dog Studios; to Cape Town’s media and most especially everyone who supported the campaign.

For more information on dogs available for adoption and how to adopt from the CoGH SPCA, visit www.spca-ct.co.za.

Why humane education is In the minds of most people, there is a big divide between human issues and animal issues. Human issues are very important. Animal issues…. well, not so important at least not until we've got it right for the humans first! It is because of this mindset that so many people continue to see the teaching of kindness and compassion towards animals as something of no great value. Some have not made the connection yet that the way we treat animals is a human issue. It is a human issue of huge and profound proportions, because how we treat those at our mercy is the truest reflection of who we are. As things stand, what we see in the mirror, regarding our treatment of animals, is so unpalatable that, for the most part, we are in deep denial about it. It is with this in mind that The Humane Education Trust is singleminded in its passion to bring an understanding of compassion and kindness into every classroom throughout South Africa. Humane education is a process through which learners are assisted in developing compassion, a sense of justice, and respect for the value of all life. And, compassion towards animals is our starting point, because they are the most vulnerable to our callous disregard or cruel intent. At least abused children have our rage and outcry. Animals don’t even have that. So what is compassion? It should not be confused with sympathy, which is a different emotion. Compassion is more than simply feeling sorry for somebody - much more. It is stronger than empathy too. Compassion is when your heart moves at the suffering of another and this spurs you on to try to alleviate their suffering. Debates abound about how to stem the violence in our society - we should have more policing, harsher sentences, return of the death penalty, video surveillance in schools, body searches of learners, and the list goes on. But how often do we hear that humane education should be part of the solution? Almost never. Yet, that is exactly where we need to tackle the problem - right there within the hearts and minds of our country’s children. 12

Humane education is a process through which learners are assisted in developing compassion, a sense of justice, and respect for the value of all life.

A decade ago, in co-operation with the Western Cape Department of Education. The Humane Education Trust conducted a three-month pilot project on the impact of Humane Education on learner behaviour in 11 schools, most affected by violence.

(See the video Caring Classrooms: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ttA 2PSN0qmU). Of all the benefits the learners derived from this intervention, there was none as great as their development of self-esteem. As Elton, in Grade 10 put it: “For me,

Humane Education was a great and joyful programme. It made me into a better person.” Brendan, in Grade 10, put it this way: “Humane Education gave me a new pair of eyes. Everything I look at now, I see differently.”

essential for peaceful, sustainable communities by Louise van der Merwe

Erin Chase with Molly Photograph by Tamed and Framed Pet Photography

Following the success of this intervention, the Humane Education Trust set about developing resources specific to the South African experience. Today, all 22 of our Humane Education Resources (readers and DVD’s) have been approved by the

Department of Basic Education as well as the various Provincial Departments of Education. In addition, two of these resources have been selected by the Western Cape Department of Education for its ‘prescribed’ list for Grade 7’s for 2012.

And, furthermore, the Department of Basic Education’s new curriculum for learners that comes into force next year (2012) includes multiple opportunities for learning about animal care as part of Life Skills at both Foundation and Intermediate Phases.

For some people, Humane Education has become just another phrase for programmes that teach children to treat their cats and dogs in a better way. This perception is like a scraping of the surface layer of what Humane Education is really all about. Humane Education develops a widening of our circle of compassion and respect to include each other, animals and the environment at large. Learners begin to consider a whole range of ethical issues using lessons designed to generate creative and critical thinking and, of course, empathy. Humane Education assists learners in the development of their core values as human beings. It’s about why we bully others, about perception, denial and taking responsibility, about our treatment of the animals we use to feed ourselves, about the notion that hunting can be justified as a sport, about our decimation of the environment. The world is full of ironies and this is another of them: In promoting the well-being of those at our mercy, we ourselves find our own dignity and extraordinary capacity to heal the wrongs all around us. It is in this that we find purpose, passion and a reason for living. As the Reverend Professor Andrew Linzey, Director of Oxford University’s Centre for Animal Ethics, puts it: “The truth is that we are spiritually blind in our relations to other creatures, as blind as men have been to women, whites have been to blacks, and straights have been to gays.” He adds that at the root of the problem is the ‘idiolatry’ of thinking that God is only interested in the human species. For more information visit www.humane-education.org.za. 13

Education News

SPCA invests in education to prevent animal cruelty

The new SPCA Ani-Pal Education Programme which aims to teach primary school learners about responsible pet care and encourage respect and compassion for all living creatures. Funded by the National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund (NLDTF), it was officially launched by the Premier of the Western Cape, Helen Zille, at the Cape of Good Hope (CoGH) SPCA in Grassy Park on 6 September.

Premier Helen Zille chats to Grade 2 Fairview learners about responsible pet care

“Humane education is very important in the development of empathy as part of a life skills programme for

school learners”, said Premier Zille, who together with invited guests and Grade 2 learners from Fairview Primary School in Grassy Park, was given a display of the SPCA’s new Ani-Pal puppet show at the launch event. Since 2003, when the SPCA AniPal Education Programme was first created with funding from the NLDTF, it has been presented to almost 80 000 primary school learners across Cape Town, from varying socio-economic backgrounds, as a result of a significant commitment by CoGH SPCA management to invest in humane education. The programme is the only one of its kind in South Africa. “The programme is centred around five ‘Ani-Pal rules’, namely that all animals have a right to food and water; shelter; exercise and veterinary care. It also advocates the sterilisation of pets. The SPCA’s three full-time educators use the fun, interactive puppet show to teach learners that all animals are sentient creatures (i.e. they can experience and display a wide range of emotions as well as feel pain) and that their pets need to be taken care of and loved, just like they do.

Research shows animal abuse stunts development of empathy in children Would we care more about animal suffering if we knew about the damage it can do to our children? Research suggests that animal abuse has a knock-on effect that can stunt the emotional development of children and may therefore be regarded as a form of child abuse according to Louise van der Merwe, founder of The Humane Education Trust. The connection between animal abuse and child abuse is revealed in a new book entitled The Link between Animal Abuse and Human Violence, which comprises cuttingedge research by 36 international academics in fields as varied as the Social Sciences, Criminology, Developmental Psychology, Human

Rights, Applied Childhood Studies, Behavioural Science, and Child Welfare. The book highlights the domino effect of animal abuse and suggests that children become habituated to an animal’s suffering and indifferent when they witness adults disrespecting, neglecting and abusing an animal.

So what is a sustainable solution? Educational philosopher Dr Kai Horsthemke of the Wits School of Education suggests that Humane Education needs to be reconceptualised. “If we are to take the principles of justice, equality and rights seriously, we need to extend them beyond the human realm.” Thus, he says, we need to teach our children:l Justice, not just kindness l Respect, not just compassion l Rights, not just protection In an exciting development, the effectiveness of Humane Education is

to be tested by means of drawing analysis, through a year-long study in several schools in the Western Cape. Drawing analysis prevents learners from saying what they think they should say and reveals the presence or absence of emotions such as empathy, anger, sadness, despair and self-esteem. “If Humane Education is all that it is cracked up to be, learners’ drawings, a year from now, will show a measurable increase in empathy and selfesteem, so watch this space!”, says Louise.

SPCA Horse Care Unit and Farmyard Update

Do pigs make suitable pets? Whilst baby potbellied pigs are oh so cute and reminiscent of the adorable talking piglet in the popular children’s movie ‘Babe’, the Footprints team went to find out if it’s acceptable to keep them as pets. According to Cape of Good Hope (CoGH) SPCA HCU and Farmyard Manager, Louis Joubert, many people purchase pigs when they are small and cute, not realising or rather choosing to ignore that they will grow into a very large adult pig (around 150kgs), with the result that many are discarded once they start growing up and out. He believes that potbellied pigs are being bred indiscriminately and falsely advertised as ‘miniature potbellied pigs’ and presented as,

‘suitable house pets’, which sell for around R400 each. “In the last five months, the CoGH SPCA has taken in nine unwanted potbellied pigs from owners who purchased them as piglets and then once they got bigger and the novelty

wore off, they no longer wanted them. It’s the latest craze and sadly people buying them are giving little consideration to the needs of the animals, their adult size and how long they live, before making their purchase”, said Louis. Many owners who have surrendered their pigs to the SPCA reside in suburban areas where livestock such as pigs are not allowed. The new Animal By-Laws, makes it an offence for any person to keep on any premises or property, any livestock animal without the permission of the council. “Pigs are social animals that require lots of attention as well as a nutritious diet and a suitable enclosure on a property zoned to keep livestock”, says Louis. “If you are considering getting a pig

as a pet, please remember that pigs can be very dangerous under certain conditions, especially when threatened, i.e. when they have piglets. They are also inquisitive and playful and if kept in a barren environment, their levels of aggression increase as they are intelligent animals and will get bored. Pigs need to eat two or three meals a day consisting of commercial pig pellets and vegetables to stay healthy”, he said. Notwithstanding this, when handled correctly pigs become docile and friendly. They would therefore be suitable pets for experienced and knowledgeable owners who can provide the correct living environment and care for these animals. Pigs, like all animals, must be cared for responsibly.

A walk on The Wild side for Sunday’s Child Well-known South African actress Faye Peters, who currently plays Bernie in M-Net’s The Wild has adopted the thoroughbred filly, Sunday’s Child, through the Western Cape Equine Trust’s (WCET) and CoGH SPCA’s Rehoming of Racehorses Project (REHORP). The initiative encourages racehorse owners to hand their exracehorses to the SPCA Horse Care Unit, which with support from the WCET, helps them adjust to becoming companion equines and then adopts them to suitable homes. The actress, who has always had a great love for animals, saw a picture of Sunday’s Child on the CoGH SPCA’s website (www.spcact.co.za) and says it was love at first sight (or rather web-site)! After receiving her application the Highveld Horse Care Unit in Johannesburg kindly undertook a prehome check on behalf of the CoGH SPCA and once approved Sunday’s Child was soon transported north to

begin her new life, surrounded by love and living in luxury. “She stands at 15.3hh (hands high) so she’s a big, absolutely gorgeous girl”, said Faye. I have always had an affinity for horses and whilst I have grown and changed in many aspects of my life, my love for horses has remained constant. Sunday’s Child is healthy, intelligent and well-adjusted and I’m delighted to have this affectionate, special horse in my life. Thank you for allowing me to adopt her”. If you are interested in adopting a horse, pony or donkey from the SPCA Horse Care Unit, please visit www.spca-ct.co.za to see a gallery of equines currently available for adoption. 15

Hospital news

A sterilised pet is a happy and healthy pet - by Dr Yvonne Robson ‘My puppy is too young to be sterilised’ is a statement often heard by the SPCA Animal Hospital staff when encouraging people to sterilise their pets. Footprints chatted to veterinarian Dr Yvonne Robson, who has worked extensively in animal welfare and run dozens of sterilisation drives for guidance on the matter. Cats and dogs can and should be sterilised before reaching sexual maturity and I recommend sterilisation between the first six and 16 weeks of the animal’s life. Here are some good reasons to sterilise your pets at an early age:l According to figures released by the Humane Society of the United States, a single female dog can, in just six years, be responsible for 67,000 descendants and a single female cat can, in just seven years, be responsible for 420,000 descendants. Sterilising your pet is the responsible thing to do and in so doing, you will help address the problem of pet-overpopulation and

will aid in alleviating the death of unwanted animals in shelters. Unsterilised female cats attract sexually active male cats and this encourages bad behaviour, such as spraying, fighting and caterwauling. Female dogs also attract unwanted males when in ‘heat’, causing male dogs to roam with the risk of suffering road traffic accidents and they tend to show aggression by fighting with each other and marking territory. Unsterilised females are more prone to developing mammary cancers and womb infections, as well as pass infectious and hereditary diseases onto their

offspring. Fighting male cats may spread diseases such as Feline AIDS and leukaemia to other cats. Unsterilised male dogs are more vulnerable to prostate disease. l Contracted diseases can be passed onto other pets or children; and burgeoning populations of stray cats can also adversely affect the environment. The Cape of Good Hope SPCA advocates sterilisation as the most effective and humane method to address the problem of uncontrolled breeding in the Cape Metropole. All SPCA animals are sterilised before they are put up for adoption and in the last year the society sterilised around 6000 owned animals admitted to the SPCA’s hospital and mobile clinics and unwanted animals surrendered to the SPCA.

SPCA gives Lassie a new spring in his step!

When Langebaan RDP housing resident Nicolette Cleophas’s Jack Russell, Lassie, was hit by a car in May, she was panic stricken and immediately asked Langebaan Animal Care to help. The small animal welfare group’s consulting vet quickly established

that Lassie had suffered a dislocation to one of his hip joints and a fracture to the left femur that would require major surgery costing in the region of R8 500 at a private veterinary practice. As Langebaan Animal Care does not have the facilities to perform this specialised procedure and their nearest SPCA also doesn't have it’s own hospital, they called on the Cape of Good Hope SPCA’s Animal Hospital for assistance. “Lassie is well taken care of by Nicolette who loves him dearly and we felt that we had to do everything possible to save him. Nicolette is an avid animal lover and has taken in many stray animals in her community and would even sacrifice feeding herself to feed the dogs”, said Chairmian Godfrey of Langebaan Animal Care.

Lassie was delivered to the SPCA and soon underwent successful surgery performed by CoGH SPCA head veterinarian Dr Kukie Harris. The SPCA charged a subsidised fee of R990, which was sponsored by Langebaan Animal Care. “Nicolette is eternally grateful because Lassie, who she says is her “baby”, would not have had this happy ending if not for the assistance of the SPCA. After a recent visit to Nicolette, I was delighted to see Lassie running and happily bouncing around with other dogs as if he never suffered any injuries,” said Chairmian. Eds note (It’s thanks to our supporters that we are able to help animals like Lassie - thanks to everyone who donates to the CoGH SPCA).

Paternoster Spay Day In August, SPCA supporter and animal lover Tracey Pace and veterinarian Dr Yvonne Robson undertook their fourth sterilisation drive in the small West Coast village of Paternoster. The initiative was organised by Tracey after she first visited the area in November 2009 and was alarmed to see the numbers of animals desperately in need of veterinary care. To date, with the help of many local volunteers, the Saldanha Municipality (who arranged the use of the hall), Dr Duncan Siegfried, Animal Rescue Organisation and the Cape of Good Hope SPCA, 144 animals have been sterilised and have also received basic treatments such as deworming, vaccinations and tick and flea treatment thanks to CIPLA Vet Animal Health. Owners who had their dogs sterilised were also given a packet of food generously donated by Hill’s Pet Nutrition and Royal Canin. Pictured is CoGH SPCA Theatre Animal Welfare Assistant Winati Mkhaliphi who assisted in preparing the animals for sterilisation on 16 August 2011.

SPCA Wildlife Unit Update Architect’s impression of Cape Town’s first short term wildlife care facility at the CoGH SPCA in Grassy Park

On 14 September R & N Master Builders turned the first sod to begin construction of Cape Town’s first short term wildlife care facility at the CoGH SPCA in Grassy Park, thanks to funding of R3, 993,115 from the National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund (NLDTF).

The eco-friendly, state-of-the-art facility, which is expected to be completed in April/May 2012, will provide suitable and customised facilities for the CoGH SPCA Wildlife Unit staff and trained volunteers to provide short-term care for threatened and common wild animals, which need to be rescued within the greater Cape Town metrople. The need for such a facility has

been felt since the SPCA first started responding to wildlife issues in 2006 as a result of the numerous nature reserves, national parks and long coastline within the CoGH SPCA’s district. “The CoGH SPCA’s Wildlife Unit serves a critical role in responding to reports of displaced, injured and sick wildlife and investigates reports of cruelty to wild animals. Wild animals

rescued by the unit are currently being handed to selected rehabilitation centres, which limits the SPCA’s control over where these animals are released. When they have been rehabilitated some may even go to zoos if they cannot be released back to the wild, hence the need for this facility”, said CoGH SPCA Wildlife Unit supervisor, Brett Glasby.

Wildlife Unit finds happy home for mongoose Recently the CoGH SPCA’s Wildlife Unit was called out to Brand Electrical in Montague Gardens to capture a small Mongoose family, as the company were concerned they might pose a potential health risk and feared that they would become pests. On arrival CoGH SPCA Wildlife Unit Supervisor Brett Glasby set up a humane trap and waited patiently for the animals to enter it. When they finally did he was surprised to discover a male Yellow Mongoose (not the more common Grey Mongoose which he was expecting), who had been living in the company’s unoccupied backyard with his family. Relatively uncommon in and around Cape Town, the Yellow Mongoose is a harmless creature, which feeds mostly on insects and invertebrates, as well as small rodents, amphibians and reptiles. “We usually get called out to rescue and relocate the Cape Grey

Mongoose, which is solitary in nature and therefore easier to capture and relocate. However, whilst the Yellow Mongoose is often seen alone, they live communally in families of five to ten, thus capturing one would separate it from its family”, said Brett. After discussions with Brand Electrical and after educating their staff about the Yellow Mongoose, Brett was able to convince them that it would be mutually beneficial for both the mongoose and the staff to live alongside each other harmoniously. The SPCA’s Wildlife Unit released the mongoose back into its environment and supplied the company with a notice to make visitors aware of the resident

This Yellow mongoose now shares its home with Brand Electrical

mongoose family on the property. “Improving our responses to human-wildlife conflict requires education and tolerance. We admire

the company for being environmentally-conscious and being willing to share their space with these fascinating creatures”, said Brett. 17

Is your dog

Naughty or mis Understanding why your dog barks too much, digs up your garden and chews up your shoes (especially the brand new pair) might be the answer to helping you deal with his or her bad behaviour. Drawing on 27 years of experience, Andrew Flynn of the Dog Obedience Centre, explains why dogs do what they do and shares some basic training tips to help owners and their errant dogs:

Positive/Negative attention All dogs thrive on attention and positive attention in particular. So spending quality time with your dog on a daily basis, taking him or her for regular walks, going for training sessions, playing games, etc., is all positive attention and hugely constructive in raising and moulding a well-balanced family dog. Unfortunately, there are many people who, for various reasons, don’t spend

this time with their dogs. They go to work early, come home late, leave the dog outside while they spend the evening with their families, or worse, the dog lives permanently outside and gets little or no constructive attention. These dogs soon realise that if they can’t get the positive attention they crave, then getting negative attention will have to do and so by digging a hole, ripping out a plant or three, or chewing up the hosepipe will certainly get the owners attention and usually ends in the dog getting punished. Another possible reason for destructive behaviour could be frustration. Dogs, as with small children, need stimulation. They need lots of toys to play with, toys that squeak, rubber toys they can chew,

rawhide bones, hooves, etc. Leaving a dog at home all day, every day while you’re out working is asking a lot and unless there is stimulation, it can and probably will lead to destructive behaviour. Please remember that giving positive attention must be balanced with the right amount of discipline. In other words, the dog can’t do what it wants, when it wants, such as demanding attention, jumping up, etc. This is where a good training school will teach you how to build this balance. Sleeping Inside All dogs, I feel, should sleep inside at night where they are warm and sheltered with the family. Dogs left outside are more likely to be

Pet Care

understood?

- by Andrew Flynn

destructive and bark to get attention or to be let in. Once again they learn very quickly that barking at night will elicit a strong response from the owner and negative attention is better than no attention after all. Dogs outside are vulnerable to being stolen, silenced in some way and are certainly not much of a deterrent to people with serious malintent. Separation Anxiety This is another behaviour that is difficult to correct. Although it's essential to give your dog positive attention, it’s a bad idea to let him or her spend too much time with you. By this I mean that your dog should not be allowed to follow you around wherever you go in the house and basically never leave your side. I find

this to be a common problem, especially with young dogs and rescue dogs. It’s essential that the dog learns to spend time away from you and to be able to amuse himself outside. By all means spend quality time with him but the rest of the time he must learn to be alone. If you don’t the dog won’t be able to handle the separation and basically doesn’t know how to be on his own. These are the dogs that howl and bark incessantly at the gate until you arrive home again. Having said that, if your dog does bark it’s important to first investigate the reason for the barking, rather than just yelling at him to keep quiet. Constant reprimanding will soon send the message to the dog that it’s wrong to bark, thereby removing

a possible effective early warning system.

Ignore the holes This all said, it must be remembered that a degree of digging and chewing are phases that all dogs need to go through during their early life. Chewing is especially prevalent when a dog is developing his/her adult teeth and the gums are sore and sensitive, but as long as the dog has chewable toys and rawhide bones, they shouldn’t need to chew on your new pair of heels. By the same token, there should be an area of the garden that your dog can dig in and won’t be reprimanded or punished for doing so. You may have to fence off areas of the garden but don't worry, it doesn’t last forever. Certain breeds are also better gardeners than others such as Labradors and Jack Russell Terriers, but as long as you manage it properly it shouldn’t be too bad. An interesting observation is that many rescue dogs that have been prevented from going through these phases during their first year will immediately revert back to them when they get rescued. It’s part of their development and they need to go through these phases, so please be patient with them and with correct discipline and training this phase will pass. The general rule here is that unless you actually catch your dog digging where he shouldn’t or chewing what she shouldn’t, you should ignore the damage completely. Don’t even reprimand the dog but rather look to giving the positive attention he or she seeks.

Single dogs I realise it’s easier said than done, but single dogs can either be spoiled rotten or they get left alone outside. Having a second dog to play with, sleep next to, groom, etc., is a huge stimulus for the dog and serves to get the dog away from you all the time. It also reduces separation anxiety. However, a second dog must be compatible with other animals you have, your family and lifestyle, so it’s important not to just grab any dog or puppy you come across. (Ed’s note if you adopt from the SPCA, our kennel staff will help you introduce existing dogs to prospective pets).

photograph by Michelle Cound

Conclusion If you bring up a dog with the correct balance between positive attention, exercise, training and discipline; allow him or her to sleep inside at night ideally with a compatible playmate; provide sufficient, suitable toys and provide a loving and caring environment, the chances of the dog displaying bad behaviour will be negligible. However if none of this helps there could be other, more complex reasons why the dog is displaying bad behaviour and then you may need to seek the assistance of an experienced dog trainer and/or behaviourist. For further guidance contact us on 021 700 4146 or email adoptions@spca-ct.co.za. 19

SPCA hopeful new Animal By-Law will prevent animal cruelty The City of Cape Town’s new Animal By-Law was promulgated on 5 August after a three year process to consolidate, rewrite and strengthen the fragmented set of municipal By-Laws, which have governed animal ownership up until now. The By-Law offers greater protection to both animals and people and will now force errant animal owners to take greater responsibility for their animals and ensure that their animals do not harm or cause repeated disturbance to others. The By-Law also makes specific reference to working equines and details the requirements that those who want to work an equine must comply with, resulting in better protection for these animals. There are also specific sections relating to the ownership of cats as well as livestock and poultry. Strict regulations relating to animals that pose a danger to other animals and humans (i.e. dangerous dogs that have bitten other animals and/or people) have been included. The SPCA has welcomed the inclusion of a section prohibiting animal fights, which will strengthen charges the organisation brings against people involved in these heinous blood sports. “These new By-Laws have the potential to greatly improve animal welfare in the Cape Town metropole. We hope that their enforcement will be prioritised so as to ensure that the intention is translated into action for the benefit of animals”, said CoGH SPCA Inspector, Moyo Ndugwana. “Despite our disappointment that mandatory pet sterilisation was excluded from the final draft, we believe that the new By-Law will serve as a greater deterrent to irresponsible and cruel pet owners and help to speed up animal cruelty cases, which often take years to resolve through the courts”, he said. To view the full set of the Animal Control By-Law visit http://web1.capetown.gov.za/websear ch/search/search.aspx?lib=acm/com sup/Weblib&docName=Bylaw.

Mazars, an Audit, Tax and Advisory firm, recently donated two second hand Dell notebooks to the value of R8000 to the Cape of Good Hope SPCA’s Inspectorate, after the firm responded to an appeal. The CoGH SPCA Inspectorate was the grateful recipient of the notebooks, which will be used by Wildlife Unit Supervisor, Brett Glasby (pictured left with Glenn Hurlow, Business Technology Manager at Mazars) and Inspectorate Manager, Moyo Ndukwana, whose work requires them to have access to their computers remotely. “Mazars is not just a firm but a community, and social responsibility is one of our essential values. We seek ways to make a positive contribution in our community and relish the opportunity to support organisations who are doing good work in this regard. We’ve long admired the work of the CoGH SPCA and are pleased that we can assist them to help protect animals” said Glenn.

SPCA keeps watchful eye on Kuilsriver farm Inspectors from the CoGH SPCA are keeping a close check on a Kuilsriver farm, whose owner was cautioned by the SPCA after his animals were found in a neglectful condition without access to suitable food and water in early August. Kalimbo farm was raided by Inspectors from the CoGH SPCA and Animal Welfare Society Stellenbosch on 28 July, after they uncovered serious animal neglect and terrible living conditions for approximately 100 livestock (cattle; sheep; goats; pigs). The owner of the farm was issued with a warning from the SPCA, giving him seven days to improve the living conditions for the animals, including providing adequate food, sufficient potable water for 24 hours a day and adequate shelter from the elements. He was also required to ensure that the animals’ living environment is safe, clean and hygienically maintained and that all sick animals receive immediate veterinary treatment. The SPCA visited the farm on 5 August to conduct a follow-up inspection and found that the warning issued was adhered to and the animals’ living conditions has improved. The owner was further advised to obtain additional feed and water troughs and move these to the dry, grassy areas on the farm as opposed to the muddy area they were standing in. The owner has complied with this request. SPCA and Animal Welfare Inspectors are conducting regular follow up inspections to ensure good living conditions are maintained.

Inspectorate

Collaborative response to Sweet Home Farm crisis

SPCA Inspector Jeroncio Jacobs rescues a dog in Sweet Home Farm

On 28 June tensions flared in the Sweet Home Farm community near Nyanga after a pack of seven dogs allegedly killed a three year old toddler, who was left alone while his mother went to the toilet. Cape of Good Hope SPCA (CoGH) Inspectors were called to the community following reports that residents were threatening to kill all dogs in the informal settlement, which is home to approximately 7000 households. The SPCA’s primary role was to prevent animal cruelty by removing any dogs surrendered by their owners and to help search for the dogs who allegedly killed the toddler. Emotions ran high following the attack, with many residents calling for all dogs to be removed and some even stoning and kicking dogs. The SAPS was called to help control the angry residents. In the first two weeks following the dog attack, the CoGH SPCA together with the Animal Rescue Organisation (ARO) and Animal Welfare Society Philippi had a daily presence in the informal settlement, running mobile clinic services to treat sick and

injured animals and take in animals for sterilisations. Various community meetings were held to make residents aware of their responsibilities to their animals and the importance of sterilisation to prevent uncontrolled breeding, which was identified as a major problem with some households keeping as many as 10 dogs. The City of Cape Town’s law enforcement offered support and the office of the Premier of the Western Cape provided funding to cover costs incurred by the three animal welfare groups who responded to the crisis. Efforts to maintain calm in the community suffered a setback when two young children (aged four) were bitten by a female dog after they tried to play with the dog’s four-week-old puppies on 10 July. The dog and her puppies were removed by the SPCA and two of the puppies have since been adopted to new homes.

SPCA or ARO mobile clinic continued visiting the community weekly to treat sick and injured animals and encourage pet owners to sterilise their animals and the SPCA has conducted two educational initiatives at the local educare centre to teach children in the community about responsible pet care. The SPCA will continue to work closely with ARO, Animal Welfare Society Philippi and the City of Cape Town’s Law Enforcement to provide primary health care services in this community and educate residents about the new Animal bylaw.

CA A/H SP cy en emerg r: e numb 04 6 16 083 32

Happy TAILS

Ever wondered what happens to animals once they have been rehomed by the SPCA? Here are a few happyever-afters to warm your heart!

Vanilla finds her essence

New Baas in the house In August 2010, Andries Laubscher of Kirstenhof visited the Cape of Good Hope SPCA in search of a canine companion. “When I arrived at the SPCA, I saw so many wonderful dogs, but it was Tyton (a cross Jack Russel) who stood up against the gate of his kennel and gave me this look as if to say, ‘I’m the one you want!’. A few seconds later I turned around and walked back to the adoption office as I had made my decision. I know it may sound terribly soppy but there was some sort of a connection between us”, said Andries. Tyton was very timid in nature and so soon after he arrived at his new home, Andries re-named him ‘Baas’ as he was determined to help Tyton gain more confidence. “Baas’s self-esteem has improved dramatically in the last year. At first, he would run and cower under the bed every time I switched on the TV, or dropped something, but now he knows that this is his home and he reminds the postman of this every week!” “He is a real character and enjoys the water - any excuse for a dip will do, no matter how cold it is. My friends say they cannot believe he is the same dog that came home a year ago. I have formed a close bond with Baas and I cannot imagine not having him around.

Cat lover, Cathy Wagner of Newlands has over the years adopted many rescued cats into her home and heart. In November last year, Cathy heard about a female kitten that was handed into the SPCA by a pastor who had removed her from a group of children who had been abusing her. Despite already having several cats and without even seeing her, Cathy felt that she just had to offer the kitten a loving home. “She reminded me of vanilla and so the name stuck. Vanilla was thin, her fur was sparse and she had scars on her thigh, stomach and front paw. Also, the SPCA Veterinarian told me that her innards protruded whenever she passed a stool, but that didn’t worry me as she was now part of my family,” said Cathy. Thanks to lots of t.l.c, Vanilla has blossomed into a happy, healthy ball of fur. “Despite her traumatic start to life, the only reminder of her abuse remains her obsession with food, probably because she was hungry for so long. Vanilla loves to eat and always wants more!” “She’s become quite sociable with my other cats and is particularly close to Boo Boo, our male cat. He was immediately smitten with Vanilla and is extremely gentle and paternal with her. Vanilla’s most endearing feature is that whenever I call her, she comes galloping towards me at full speed while making little meowing noises and looks up at me as if to say: Mom, here I am!”

Best friends forever

Trixie gets new leash on life In June, with the help of good samaritan Michelle du Toit, SPCA Inspectors rescued two thin and neglected Belgian Shepherds found wandering along the busy Koeberg Interchange. After being examined by an SPCA veterinarian, it became clear that whilst one dog (Trixie) was in good health, the other would have to be humanely euthanased. In just a few weeks, Trixie was adopted by Debbie and Hugo Bradfield from Johannesburg. After the Randburg SPCA approved the pre-home check, Trixie was flown north to start her new life with the Bradfield family. Trixie shares a home with Sky, a female Husky and Sheeba, a female Jack Russell. “She has settled down wonderfully and has been steadily gaining weight. She loves her walks by the river and spends loads of time playing with her toys and her new siblings”, said Debbie. According to Debbie, Trixie has some endearing habits that keep the family entertained for hours. “When she gets excited, she either bounces around like a ball or she will stand on her hind legs and put both of her paws around my neck to give me a big hug. Trixie is just like a child - full of love, surprises and happiness and we love her to bits!” said Debbie.

When Ania Craül’s daughter Bronwyn moved out of home with her sister Courtnay in January last year, they felt their house would never become a home without a little furry body around and so visited the Cape of Good Hope SPCA in search of a feline friend. “Bronwyn was instantly drawn to the cutest little white and tabby kitten, which she thought looked like a ‘Molly’ and the rest, as they say, is history! When Courtnay saw Molly, she too wanted a kitten of her own and that’s how Mac, with her huge beautiful eyes, joined the Craül clan”, said Ania. “It’s like they are all BFF’s (Best Friends Forever) and these four ladies have settled in really well together, showering each other with love and laughter. Mac is a bit like Dora the Explorer - investigating everything and anything. When an electrician was called, Mac decided she also wanted to see what was happening and climbed up the man’s back to peek over his shoulder and watch him work. Molly on the other hand is more relaxed and is quite content to just bask in the afternoon sun.” “The kittens have since grown into two beautiful young ladies, both adored by the girls and we applaud the SPCA for finding homes for many abandoned animals like Molly and Mac.”

SPCA Bequest Society Christmas Luncheon - book now!

Tuesday, 13 December is the date to diarise for this year’s popular SPCA Bequest Society and Donor Recognition Christmas luncheon at the award-winning Vineyard Hotel in Newlands. Located within six acres of beautiful indigenous gardens, the venue never fails to delight guests with its warm welcome and professional service. This year luncheon guests can look forward to a delicious meal and a new entertainment line-up,

including a performance by dancers from Cape Town City Ballet. Cost of the three-course luncheon with entertainment is R220 per person and bookings are open to members of the SPCA Bequest Society and their friends, as well as prospective Bequest Society members. 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.

New SPCA Christmas cards on sale now! This year you can choose between an adorable Christmas tabby or beautiful golden retriever to send festive season greetings to family and friends near and far, in support of the CoGH SPCA. Each pack includes five SPCA Christmas cards, printed on good quality card with a high gloss finish and five envelopes selling for R20 per pack (excluding postage). Both designs are standard postage size, which helps keep postage costs to a minimum. The message inside the card reads:- ‘May joy be your gift at Christmas and may faith, hope and love be your treasures in the New Year.’ Sponsored by Cipla Vet Animal Health (manufacturers of Fiprotec, flea and tick repellent) and Tamed and Framed Pet Photography, all proceeds from the Christmas card

sales will directly benefit sick, injured and abandoned animals in the SPCA’s care. You can purchase your cards directly from the SPCA in Grassy Park; at the SPCA Vet Shop (6 Gabriel Road, Plumstead); and at St Francis Vet, Bergvliet; the charity card kiosks at Constantia Village, Blue Route Mall, Canal Walk, and Cavendish Square or order online at www.spca-ct.co.za For large orders contact Natasha Johannes on 021 700 4155/41.

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Thank you Pierre! Long-standing SPCA supporter and Bequest Society member, Pierre van Nieuwenhuyse of Higgovale recently donated a large television to the SPCA for use in our lecture room. It will be used for showcasing the SPCA’s promotional DVDs to school learners visiting our society. “Thank you Pierre for helping us educate learners about responsible pet care through your generous donation!” 23