ANIMALS 101 – AGGRESSIVE DOG BEHAVIOUR

Columnist

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March 5, 2025

ANIMALS BEING AGGRESSIVE IS A COMPLEX BEHAVIOUR AND SHOULD BE IDENTIFIED CORRECTLY AND ADDRESSED IMMEDIATELY BY QUALIFIED INDIVIDUALS!

Behavior is one of the most common reasons people surrender animals to shelters, especially dogs—and aggression is often a key concern. But could it be that you’re misunderstanding your dog rather than them “misbehaving”? Aggression is a complex issue and one of the most frequent behavioral challenges addressed by professionals. However, many actions that people interpret as aggression are actually normal forms of canine communication.

As the Whole Dog Journal shares: “The broad spectrum of “aggressive behaviours” is technically called “agonistic behaviours” and is defined in ethology as, “pertaining to the range of activities associated with aggressive encounters between members of the same species or social group, including threat, attack, appeasement, or retreat.” So, while a growl-lunge-bite sequence would be easily recognized by most people as aggression, more subtle agonistic behaviours such as a freeze, a hard stare, or even a lack of eye contact, may go unnoticed (and unaddressed). The lack of understanding of basic and normal animal behaviour remains part of the problem!

Part of the problem is also that there has been a cultural shift about dog aggression. I agree with Patt Miller that our culture has become over-sensitized to dog bites. In the past, if a child was bitten by a neighbour’s dog, the mother would usually question the child about what they did to provoke the animal. Nowadays, however, the first response is to contact a lawyer or a behaviour specialist (less likely), or even take the dog to a shelter. We have become a society that is increasingly fearful of aggression. Read more about the Pitbull crisis in SA and dog bite prevention.

Editor’s note: This article is a reprint from 15 March 2023.

Also, see how to better understand your dog’s body language.

SOME FACTORS THAT MAY CONTRIBUTE TO DOG AGGRESSION

Aggression in animals can be caused by a variety of factors, such as fear, excess energy, self-defence, or pain and physical discomfort for example.

1. Lack of Socialization: Dogs that are not properly socialized may become aggressive when they encounter unfamiliar people or animals. Pups learn valuable information about behaviour from their mom/dad. If they are removed before 10-12 weeks, then this could affect their future behaviour negatively too.

2. Fear: Dogs may become aggressive when they feel threatened or scared, which is a normal response for us as humans too. “Aggressive” behaviour when defending themselves or a mom protecting her puppies are also examples.

3. Pain: Dogs in pain may become aggressive as a way to protect themselves.

4. Dominance: Dogs may become aggressive in an attempt to establish dominance over other animals or people. Whether people believe it or not, animals do establish hierarchy and what appears to be aggressive behaviour might be part of that, although possibly normal. Sometimes just the company of other dogs may be stressful to your dog, which may lead to “aggressive” behaviour.

5. Breed genetics: Some breeds of dogs might be predisposed to aggression and bad breeding practices have certainly contributed to this. All dogs can bite, but some may do more damage than others. Aggression can’t be blamed on the breed. The breed of a dog can tell you what they can do, but how they are raised and cared for, determines what they will do. I believe dog bites are 100% preventable and understanding body language is key to prevention.

6. Hormones: An earlier study showed that dogs with high levels of the hormone vasopressin may be more aggressive than dogs with lower levels; higher levels of oxytocin (the “love hormone”) and higher oxytocin-to-vasopressin levels are seen in the breeds least likely to behave aggressively. Hormone levels when a bitch is in heat may contribute to “aggressive” behaviour for both her and males. One of the many reasons we support spay & neuter.

7. Your response: The owner’s prior experience with dogs can contribute to or reinforce certain behaviours, and when you panic it may worsen the situation. Animals need calm and confident owners. Remember that aggression can be learned; your pup can learn that if he acts aggressively, the things that scare him will go away. This means that his aggressive behaviour is rewarded, and will become more frequent.

MORE ON BEHAVIOUR

Reactivity

Reactivity is a reaction to something that makes a dog uncomfortable. It always starts subtly and as signals are missed, ignored, or punished. We then start to see behaviours that become a problem for us, like growling, snarling, lunging and biting.

Resource guarding (including food, toys, humans, etc.)

All animals engage in defending their resources, and resources come in a variety of forms. Some may make sense, others may not. It may also seem surprising to you that your dog may resource guard items because they have an abundance of things. Food, toys, you…..but resource guarding isn’t about things. It’s about feelings as R+Dogs explains it including:

The fear of losing out on something
The fear associated with not having any control
The fear that comes with intimidation (implied or unknowingly present)
The fear of the unknown
The fear of no escape
The fear of being unsafe

Resource guarding can also be linked to pain so please have your dog thoroughly checked for pain by your vet.

Trigger stacking – when the behaviour happens “out of the blue”

We’ve all experienced days when it feels like everything is going wrong and we’re left feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and ready to lash out at the next person who speaks to us. This person may think we have a serious attitude problem or need anger management when in reality, we’re just having a really bad day and don’t usually act this way. The same is true for dogs. Behaviours that appear out of the blue or are out of character can often be attributed to the stacking of different triggers.

A trigger can be anything that causes a dog to become overwhelmed and have a negative reaction. These can be small, seemingly insignificant things that we may not even notice, but they can add up and eventually lead to a reaction that is out of proportion to the stimulus. When the dog’s stress levels reach a certain point, the next event, no matter how small, can cause an unexpected reaction.

Examples include: Someone at the gate, the garbarge truck passing, strange man fixing the pool, someone on a bike passing, other dogs barking, a kid that hugs the dog etc. If this happens each on a consecutive days you likely avoid the stacking, but if it all occured in one day, they might “snap” with something simple due to stacking of triggers.

WHY PUNISHMENT IS NOT THE ANSWER!

Punishment is not the solution because it only suppresses the symptoms. Physical, punishment-based training is outdated. Such methods may include the use of choke chains, shock collars, or alpha rolls (physically rolling a dog onto the ground and holding him there) and hitting them. While these methods peaked in popularity in the 1960s, the science of dog training has advanced significantly in the last 50 years and today’s reputable trainers/behaviourists overwhelmingly shun them in favour of positive reinforcement or reward-based conditioning. Remember punishment, whether physical or mental, can harm your pet.

Never punish a growl, which usually precedes the bite or snap action. This way they will learn from you that it is safer to skip the growl because you will punish it, and then they bite “out of the blue”. A growl is a way of communicating that they are not happy and that they need your help! No bite is “out of the blue!”

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

You need an aggression-modifying action plan. A blanket approach can’t be followed for aggression, and an evaluation by a qualified behaviourist, not just a dog trainer, is important as well as addressing the individual needs of that animal if it is correctly identified as aggressive behaviour.

My first stop will always be to go for a vet check to rule out any underlying medical issue or pain.
Educate yourself about dog body language so you can be aware of your dog’s more subtle agonistic behaviours. Listen to what your pet is saying through their vocalizations or body language. TEMP – tails ears/eyes, mouth and posture. Also learn basic first-aid for pets in case of an emergency.
Find out what is the cause of aggression or stressors, and the stress levels. Look for subtle signs too. Avoid putting them in situations where they may be compelled to act aggressively and also to help them cope. Take steps to eliminate it from their life if possible. If it is something that can’t be removed, try to manage it by removing the dog from the environment when the stressor is present or re-directing your pet’s attention. If it is too difficult to be removed or managed, try to change their opinion of the stressor (gradually) through counter-conditioning or behaviour modification in the presence of the stressor. Redirect their attention or give them a job. Always stay calm!
Contact a behaviourist and make the time to follow the plan. Search for a behaviourist near you and ask for references. Remember that you need to look out for your pets, so if you feel uncomfortable with any trainer/behaviourist, then walk away and find someone else. We only support fear-free reward-based training methods. You can follow R+Dogs more on aggression and reactivity.

In our area, you can contact Jen’s Wagging Success Academy (trainer).

Aggressive behaviour – Image by Dr. Karen Becker

Become a calm-confident guardian by setting rules and boundaries and being consistent.
Meet all their needs physically and emotionally through species-appropriate enrichment.
Never force affection and let them come to you.

This only includes the basics and each situation must be assessed by a qualified behaviourist and an individual plan needs to be formulated to help the particular animal cope.

Many people wait too long before getting help for their dogs. Invest in learning about body language so you can help your pet to better navigate this human world they were forced into. They are your responsibility and just as most won’t dump their angry child on an already overwhelmed welfare system, you shouldn’t give up on the animals in your care because you are not meeting their needs or understanding their behaviour.

If you are concerned about the way an animal is treated or suspect cruelty, please contact our local (Secunda) Inspector Marius 067 858 9717.

Join us again next week as we explore the pets of our lives.

WHEN YOU KNOW BETTER, DO BETTER!

Disclaimer: I am not a behaviourist although I research these topics.

Safe Driving at the Roundabout / Traffic Circle and Mini Circle

Community news

Encee van Huyssteen

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March 4, 2025

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This article is from Arrive Alive at https://www.arrivealive.mobi/safe-driving-at-the-roundabout-traffic-circle-and-mini-circle

In South Africa, we often refer to roundabouts as “traffic circles”. A roundabout is a type of circular intersection that reduces potential conflicts between vehicles and improves the efficiency of the intersection.

The advantages of a roundabout are:

Traffic calming
Reduction of angle and head-on crashes
Reduction of crash severity
Improvement of intersection capacity
Aesthetic improvements

Approaching a roundabout:

On approaching a roundabout take notice and act on all the information available to you, including traffic signs, traffic lights and lane markings which direct you into the correct lane.
If you take your time and make sure you are in the correct lane a good distance from the roundabout you can’t go far wrong.
Slow down as you approach the intersection – You’re typically not required to stop.
A roundabout is designed to be driven at low speed. Entering and travelling through a roundabout at higher speed is difficult and could be unsafe.
Don’t worry if you have to stop when you reach the roundabout. When it’s clear, ease up off the clutch smoothly, don’t rush, keep using the mirrors, and above all, stay calm.
As you enter the roundabout, traffic coming from your right has right of way. This means that traffic streaming into the roundabout from the entrance to your right will keep coming as long as no one is coming from their right.
These cars may not even slow down as they enter the roundabout, because they have the right of way. You must stop and wait until there is a break in traffic. Watch out for other traffic in the roundabout.
Once you are on the roundabout maintain a reasonable speed. Failing to do this, especially when you are in the right-hand lane, may result in other drivers passing on the nearside.
Watch out for vehicles already on the roundabout; be aware they may not be signalling correctly or signalling at all.
Always keep an eye on the vehicle in front as you’re about to emerge. Don’t assume the driver won’t have to stop while you’re still looking right. Many rear-end collisions happen this way. Make sure the vehicle has actually moved away.
Watch for pedestrians and bicycles.
Keep in mind that buses or large trucks need extra room to make turns and might take up more than one lane in a traffic circle.
Obey all traffic signs and road markings.
Signal your intent to other drivers when entering, going around and exiting the circle.
If you miss your turn, just go around again. Avoid swerving at the last minute.

Safe Driving at the Roundabout /Traffic Circle and Mini Circle

Step by step example: The animation will provide better insight with regards to the process to follow:

To Turn Left (taking the first exit)

signal left and approach in the left-hand lane
keep to the left on the roundabout and continue signalling left to leave.

To go straight on (taking the second exit)

select the appropriate lane on approach to and on the roundabout. If no marking on the road it is usually safest to keep to the left lane
stay in this lane until you need to alter course to exit the roundabout
signal left after you have passed the exit before the one you want.

To Turn Right (taking the last exit or third exit )

signal right and approach in the right-hand lane
keep to the right on the roundabout until you need to change lanes to exit the roundabout
signal left after you have passed the exit before the one you want.

Note: The animation shows the vehicle exit the roundabout into the right lane (Lane 2). You should only do this if there is traffic in the nearside lane or you wish to turn right straight after leaving the roundabout.
In an ideal situation, you should leave the roundabout in the left lane (Lane 1)

By applying some of this information and sharing this with colleagues and friends we might contribute towards reducing some of the road rage on our roads!

The rules for traffic circles in South Africa are as follows:

Mini-circles

Slow down and give way to other vehicles that cross any Yield line before you do.

Proceed in a clockwise direction around the painted island, without driving on it.

In the words of the official legislation:

Indicates to the driver of a vehicle approaching a mini circle that he or she shall yield right of way to any vehicle which will cross any yield line at such junction before him or her and which, in the normal course of events, will cross the path of such driver’s vehicle and that the driver shall move in a clockwise direction within such junction and attempt not to encroach on the mini-circle.

Roundabouts

You must obey traffic circle rules at the roundabout.

In the words of the official legislation:

Indicates to the driver of a vehicle that he or she shall move in a clockwise direction at the junction ahead and he or she shall yield right of way to traffic approaching from the right, within the roundabout, where such vehicles are so close as to constitute a danger or potential danger.

The official regulations in South Africa leave a lot to be desired when it comes to the finer aspects of driving, and they do not in fact address the situation as described in the sketch provided (below).

It is not clear from this sketch which of the two arrows in the approaching roads represents which of the vehicles.

Assuming that A came from the two-lane dual-carriageway on the right, and was travelling in the LH lane on approach to the roundabout, and B came from the lower road and approached the circle in the RH lane:

– Then he entered the circle from the wrong lane if he intended using the circle to turn back and drive back on the same dual-carriage road to the right. He should have been in the RH lane when entering the circle.
– And B should not have entered the circle until A had passed anyway. (rules of traffic circles)

Assuming it was the other way round and A came from the bottom road, in the RH lane:
– A was entered the circle from the correct lane but somehow got into the outside lane once in the circle, which is wrong for the exit he wished to take.
– Also, A should have waited for B before entering the circle, and would therefore not have ended up in this situation.

Whichever way it happened, either or both of the vehicles ended up in the wrong lane within the circle and that is the cause of the problem.

Of course, this assumes a fairly small roundabout.

Have said that, when one gets in a fix such as this the norm would be for the vehicle that is ahead of the other vehicle to move forward and for the vehicle behind to allow it to get out of the way so that it can exit the circle. However, as both A and B are alongside each other, the Calgary rule would seem the most appropriate.

At the end of the day, no vehicle in a traffic circle should obstruct another’s line of travel. So if there were any doubt at all, B should go around the island another time (or even two) and move into the LH lane when it is safe to do so, and then exit from that outer lane when it is safe to do so. (Of course, he would check mirrors and blind spots first, then if it is safe, use the left indicator, and all that other “good K53 stuff”.

THOMAS NHLABATHI SECONDARY LEARNER FATALLY STABBED

News

Encee van Huyssteen

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February 28, 2025

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THOMAS NHLABATHI SECONDARY LEARNER FATALLY STABBED

A grade 12 learner at Thomas Nhlabathi Secondary School was stabbed and killed yesterday, 27 February 2024, by a grade 10 learner. The incident took place after school hours.

According to information the Bulletin received the incident came after two boys had an argument during school hours, which led to the grade 12 being stabbed.

“Learners carried the injured learner from outside the school where he was stabbed to the school’s foyer with stab wounds; the learner was quickly rushed to Ext 4 Clinic.

Unfortunately, the learner succumbed to his injuries and was certified deceased by a doctor at the clinic in the presence of his mother,” said Music Ndzukula, SGB Chairperson of the school.

In a separate incident two learners were stabbed at a dysfunctional school in Sundra near Delmas

“For years Sundra Secondary school was plagued daily by vandalism. The school’s fencing has been broken down to nothing, which makes it easier to be vandalised. The breaking of doors and windows have become the norm,” Annerie Weber: MPL – DA Spokesperson on Education: Mpumalanga Province, “The stealing of the electrical cable was detrimental to the school as they now have been for more than a year without electricity. the JOJO tanks vandalised, and taps broken down. The roof is in disrepair.”

Annerie Weber MPL DA Spokesperson on Education Mpumalanga Province

A security guard was employed, and he allegedly was part of the removing of the electrical cable.

On Monday 24 February 2025, two learners were stabbed and fortunately they have survived. Discipline and safety are now truly impossible at the school and teachers and learners are starting to live in fear. Learners should be able to get their education in a safe environment and learners stabbing one another is a serious problem. “Where were the teachers that were supposed to be on duty?” asked Annerie

For years, the Mpumalanga Department of Education has been aware of the above challenges in this school, yet nothing has been done to address them. Now this school has become a true embarrassment not only to the department, but also to the learners and parents. It seems no one, not the SGB, nor the department can control everything that happens there.

The DA is really concerned that the conditions at the school are depriving learners of an opportunity to realize their full potential and access to quality education as enshrined in Section 29(1)(a) of the South African Constitution.

The above challenges that have not been addressed for years, show that the ANC Government cannot be trusted with the future of our children.

The DA would ask both the Mpumalanga Departments of Public Works and Education to have an urgent meeting with the acting Principal and SGB to sort out their differences, and to also find ways of address the issues of security and infrastructure at the school.

It is unfair that many children are forced to learn in dilapidated schools more than 30 years after democracy. Clearly the ANC must make way for a DA government that will prioritise school infrastructure and security, plus all other service delivery requirements.

The DA will continue fighting for our learners as we believe they have a right to safe and dignified learning environments.

Sasol Gas Pipeline Safety | Act responsibly around gas installations

News

Encee van Huyssteen

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February 28, 2025

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Sasol Gas Pipeline Safety | Act responsibly around gas installations

Sasol operates a network of gas pipeline infrastructure. Where there is a gas pipeline, you will see an orange-capped concrete pillar erected above ground.

The gas in these pipes is highly flammable. In the event of a gas leak, there will be a persistent “rotten egg-like” odour. Should you pick up this odour, do not ignite any fires or switch on a car engine. For your safety, contact Sasol before working near a gas pipeline.

Report any emergencies or suspicious activities on our toll-free number: 0800 212 260

Sasol Highveld Photography Club February Results

Community news

Encee van Huyssteen

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February 26, 2025

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Sasol Highveld Photography Club February Results

The entries for the February Sasol Highveld Photography Club meeting were of a very high standard.

Willie Labuschagne was the judge and speaker for the night. He showed his FPSSA panel and used it to show what is possible.

If you have any questions, contact Louis van der Walt at +27 (72) 755-2767. The Sasol Highveld Photography Club is passionate about photography and the quality of its images. It wants its members to enjoy their photography.

Here are the fees for the year:

Membership fees for June 2025:
R200 per year for ordinary members
R100 per year for pensioners

Sasol Club Fees – Need to complete Sasol Club Member Form (to receive card)
Sasol Employee – part of salary deduction
Non-Sasol Employee R 420 – Need to be paid June

If you have any questions, contact Louis van der Walt at +27 (72) 755-2767. The Sasol Highveld Photography Club is passionate about photography and the quality of its images. It wants its members to enjoy their photography.

Members are also graded by their skill levels and receive points to progress to a higher level. The aim is for photographers to improve by having their photos judged and critiqued. By taking note of the guest’s commentaries, they should be able to improve.

Club Competition

Different “certificates” are awarded to the photographs. These are Bronze, Silver, Gold and Certificate of Merit (COM). If the author (photographer) does everything wrong in a photo, for his/her skill level, such as out of focus he/she will receive a bronze. Doing everything right will result in gold or even a COM.

The Best Photograph in the Set Subject division was “Underberg River Love” by Louis van der walt

The best photograph in the Junior Division is “Bat-eared fox cuddles” by John Mullineux

Category – Nature Birds Only

Inkunzi Cave Swallow 2 by Louis van der Walt

Category – Landscape

Bridge over untroubled waters by Hanno de Beer

A Cloud Over Canola Fields by Sussa Pelser

Category – Monochrome

Category – Nature

Fungus in the Knysna Forest 2 by Lorraine Botha

Rain Spider On Strelitzia 1 by Sussa Pelser

Category – Pictorial

Inkunzi Cave Purple Sunset by Louis van der Walt

The art of being subtle by Yolandi Geyser

Category – Photo Journalism

Category – Set Subject

You hold my heart forever by Marius Krige

ANIMALS 101 – DO YOU UNDERSTAND YOUR DOG’S BODY LANGUAGE?

Columnist

Ancois van Zyl

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February 26, 2025

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ANIMALS 101 – DO YOU UNDERSTAND YOUR DOG’S BODY LANGUAGE?

WHAT IS YOUR DOG TELLING YOU WITH THEIR BODY LANGUAGE FROM HEAD TO TAIL?

Most animals use body language, sound, and smell to communicate with one another. Body language is the movements of animals’ facial expressions, eye behaviour, posture, and the movement of their body parts is inherent in all creatures including humans.

A common saying in animal welfare is that we are the voice for the voiceless, but more recently I agree rather with the saying that we are the voice of the unheard. So, my question to you is this: Are you hearing what your dog is saying through their body language?

Many people think it is easy to ‘read’ their dog, but there are so many subtle signs that many people don’t pick up on. Decoding your pet or another pet’s body language is not as straightforward as looking at a tail wag or the ears. Lexi Donnelly, a behaviour consultant at Best Friends Animal Society, shares how you usually see several dog body language signals happening at once. To make dog expressions even more nuanced, “Body language signals can be challenging due to breed difference and physical appearance, such as cropped ears, docked tails, wrinkles, etc.”

WHY IS BODY LANGUAGE IMPORTANT?

Dogs don’t use words, but through the gestures of our canine companions they can express a wide range of emotions and actions and it is crucial for communication. Your ability to understand and interpret body language can help you pick up on unspoken issues or feelings in your pets. When we understand body language, we can better understand our pets and meet their needs which will deepen our relationship. Dog bites and fights can also be prevented by better understanding and predicting behaviour.

I am not a behaviourist, but I will share some of the basics I have learned about this topic. We can’t begin to cover the full extent of dog body language (or other animals) in a single article, so we will only look at the basics! Check out these PAWSOME BODY LANGUAGE pictures from www.RPLUSDOGS.com and here are a few body gestures from other species.

Editor’s note: This article is a reprint of 21 March 2023.

To understand a dog’s communication signals, it’s necessary to pay attention to specific body postures, movements, and facial gestures although we do need to look at them all together and within context too. Gilbert-Gregory gives the following cues:

HOW A DOG LOOKS WHEN RELAXED

Posture — The weight is carried evenly; may do a play bow or wiggle.

Tail — Relaxed and neutral position; may be wagging.

Ears — Neutral position.

Mouth — May be open with tongue hanging out, or may be closed with lips relaxed over teeth.

Eyes — Soft, with normal pupil size.

Appetite — Readily eats.

body language — Body language – Image shared by Dr. Karen Becker

HOW A DOG LOOKS WHEN ANXIOUS

Posture (and fur) — Piloerection (raised hair on the shoulders and back); might roll over and lift a forelimb.

Tail — Might be tucked in under the body.

Mouth — Might show a submissive smile (a very wide smile), or may be panting, lip licking, and/or yawning.

Ears — Pinned back.

Eyes — Whale eye (white portion of the eye showing at corner or rim), pupil dilation, or averted gaze.

Body language – Image shared by Dr. Karen Becker

HOW A DOG LOOKS WHEN AGGRESSIVE

Posture — Muscles tense, weight shifts back and low to the ground; may also roll over to expose belly or raise one paw.

Hair — Piloerection is a red flag.

Tail — May be tucked or low to the ground; it may be wagging slowly or rapidly.

Mouth — Pulled back, with possible growling, snarling, excessive panting, lip licking, chewing, or yawning.

CALMING SIGNALS

Some of these body gestures are referred to as “calming signals” and it is a way your pet tells you they are uncomfortable or not a threat, yet so many people, especially parents miss this. They include: Breaking eye contact/turning away, lifting a paw, sniffing the ground, freezing/stillness, showing the whites of the eye (whale/moon eye), lip licking (when not eating), yawning (when not tired), walking slowly, “smiling”, wagging tail, panting, play bow, exposing the belly/lying on back, shake/shiver, lowered head and more.

A note on a dog’s hair – When you see a dog’s hair rise, most people think it is only a bad sign, but it could be arousal, discomfort, or fear. Similar to when we get goosebumps from an awesome story or when watching a scary thriller.

Also, see why regular vet visits are important.

THE MYTH ABOUT WAGGING TAILS

Many people say: “The dog’s tail was wagging so I know they just wanted to play.” In an article by Dr. Karen Becker, she shares how wagging tails do not always indicate happiness or pleasure. This is a good reason why you should stop using the tail wagging as a sign that all is okay. Tail wagging probably evolved as a dog-to-dog form of communication, since it appears dogs message each other through tail wags.

A 2013 study suggests that dogs who see another dog wagging to the left respond anxiously, with elevated heart rates, and dogs who see another dog wagging to the right remain relaxed. Other tail wagging signals include full body wags, the “circle wag”, the tip of the tail wags, and stiff or rigid wags.

Donnelly breaks it down to:

A high tail wag can be over-arousal or an early warning signal that the dog is frustrated or fearful.
A loose, half-mast wag can be comfortable and playful.
A low tail wag can signify fear and serve as an early warning signal.
Tail between the legs – this body posture is not one of confidence or feeling at ease.

PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER

When you try to decode your dog’s gestures it’s important to look at the whole picture and within context. What happened when the behaviour was displayed? Dogs will most likely not display only one gesture at a time and you will have to look at the whole body, not just one part. Although some body language is universal, focus on your pet’s individual body language. Next time you interact with your dog, look specifically at their body language. Look at how their posture changes when they are in different situations.

Always look at the body language when you want to touch an animal. Touch should always be with clear consent, voluntary, and with ongoing permission. We refer to it as PET-PET-PAUSE. The safest bet is when you let the dog approach you and initiate the interaction. If you notice they are stressed and showing any of the calming signals, move away and take them to a safe space to help them relax.

REMEMBER T-E-M-P: Tails, ears & eyes, mouth, and posture.

I have heard people brag about how well their dog listens to them, but I want to know how well you listen to your dog by observing, understanding, and reacting to their body language and through it help them navigate this human world, they were forced into, better. Make the time to really “get” your four-legged best friend because it will improve your relationship and avoid unfortunate interactions.

Join us again next week as we explore the pets in our lives.

WHEN YOU KNOW BETTER DO BETTER!

So is die Lewe: TELEURGESTELDE VERWAGTINGS

Columnist

Encee van Huyssteen

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February 25, 2025

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So is die Lewe: TELEURGESTELDE VERWAGTINGS

Lees gerus die volgende aflewering vanuit die pen van Marius Britz

Daar is ‘n Engelse frase genoemd flash fiction, oftewel kortkuns. Dit is ’n sin wat ironie bevat, wat nie kommersieel bedoel is nie, maar eerder ’n bepaalde emosie by jou opwerk. Een daarvan word toegedig aan die skrywer Ernest Hemingway, alhoewel ek nie dit onder sy werk kon opspoor nie. Dit lui só: “For sale: Baby shoes, never worn.”

Ses woorde wat ’n hele landskap in jou hart skud, wat jou gedagtes en bespiegelings op alle paaie laat hardloop, wat jou vat na ‘n lappieskombers van swaarkry, seerkry, ‘n wêreld van ontnugterde verwagtings. Toe ek hierdie woorde die eerste keer lees in ’n rubriek, het ek onmiddelik gedink aan soveel mense wat ek ontmoet het, wat uitgesien het na die geboorte van ’n kindjie, en toe loop dinge verskriklik skeef. Een babakot en stootwaentjie in ’n nuut uitgeverfde babakamer, laaie vol nuwe babaklere, sagte speelgoed, donsige babakombersies wat eensklaps onnnodig, onbruikbaar word. Want die lank begeerde en alreeds geliefde kind sien nie die lig nie, om watter rede ookal. Soveel afwagting, en uiteindelik net ontnugtering. En ’n diep, diep, onoorvertelbare seer.

Dis nie net met mislukte swangerskappe wat verwagtings kan skeefloop nie. Hierdie kortkuns se vlerke strek veel wyer as dit. Hoeveel paartjies het nie al met drome en sterre in hulle oë voor ’n kansel gestaan, stralend van opgewondenheid en bruisend van optimisme, om na ‘n paar jaar betrokke te raak in ’n bitter, venynige egskeiding. Waar daar selfs jare na die egskeiding nog steeds die een of ander vergeldingspoging is om mekaar by te kom, op grond van baie redes, soos die ontduiking van die egskeidingsbevel. Die bruid se oë met sterre in word uiteindelik blou opgeswel van vuishoue, en die mooi lyf in die pragtige trourok vol skopmerke. One expensive wedding dress for sale, used only once. Ironies genoeg, baie keer nog net ’n jaar of twee oud.

Hoeveel ouers is daar nie wat wel met sorg, aandag en liefde hulle kinders kan grootmaak, drome droom oor die dag wanneer seun saam met pa gaan boer, of sussie graad gaan kry en ’n wonderlike loopbaan gaan hê iewers, net om uiteindelik te beleef dat daardie kinders oorsee gaan woon, en hulle hul kleinkinders nog nooit gesien het nie. Al Skype hulle gereeld, dikwels verstaan die kleinkinders nie eers Afrikaans nie, en “Oupa” word granddad en “Ouma” word granny, terwyl hartseer grootouers met Engels wat maar hortend gepraat word, probeer om in ’n kubergesprek ’n persoonlike verhouding met hulle kleinkinders op te bou.

Of die paartjie wat nie kan wag vir die dag wat hulle aftree na jare van harde werk, en droom oor toer en kampeer en uiteet, maar dan eensklaps agterkom dat een van hulle alleen agtergebly het. Of dat hulle pensioen nie naastenby genoeg is nie, en hulle maar moet voortgaan om te werk met wat daar ookal is wat inkomste inbring. Want hulle skuldspiraal suig hulle net al dieper in die gat van moedeloosheid in. Al is die aftreewerkie se inkomste net ’n druppel in die emmer, dit moet liggaam en siel bymekaar hou. Hierdie lys kan met vele voorbeelde aangevul word. Teleurgestelde verwagtings.

Ek dink dikwels aan hierdie dinge as ek na my gunsteling program op televisie kyk, genaamd Car SOS. Mans met ‘n passie vir ou motors, wat dit dikwels al jare in ’n motorhuis parkeer, of iewers stofbedek in ’n stoor laat staan. Dit was hulle lewenspassie om hierdie veteraanmotors te restoureer, en daarmee te ry. Maar dan kom die onverwagse van die lewe op hulle pad: kanker, hartaanvalle, beroertes en vele meer teleurstellings. Dit is eenvoudig net nie meer vir hulle fisies moontlik om daardie motor te restoureer nie. Maar hulle klou naarstiglik vas aan hierdie ou droom, asof hulle hoop om eendag daarby uit te kom en wel dit waar te maak. Soos Johannes Kerkorrel sing: “O, jy eindig op met ’n vuur in die hart, die onrustigheid diep binnekant. Jy leef en jy leer om alles te gee vir die kans om net een keer te leef, die kans om net een keer te leef.”

Dan kom die kantelpunt. Hulle vrouens of kinders of vriende kontak die twee manne van Car SOS, wat beide fantastiese vakmanne is, en vertel die hartseer stories van die verflenterde motors se eienaars. Die motor word dan onder groot geheimhouding gaan haal, en van onder af gerestoureer tot sy oorspronklike staat in ’n werkswinkel, terwyl die eienaar totaal niks vermoed nie.

Die hoogtepunt van elke episode: die kar word met een of ander voorwendsel onthul as die oortreksel afgetrek word, in sy toestand van perfekte restourasie, terwyl die eienaar glad nie weet dat dit eintlik sy droom, sy motor is nie. Baie van hulle sê: “I have a car just like that.” En dan, skielik, kom sy familie en vriende te voorskyn, terwyl die aanbieders van die program sê: “This is your car.”

Die reaksie van die eienaar is vir my dikwels oorweldigend emosioneel. Ongeloof, verwondering, diepe hartseer, maar veral, hierdie dankbaarheid, hierdie verwagting wat nie meer teleurgesteld is nie. Dan word die motor se sleutels aan hom oorhandig met die woorde: “You’ve been Car SOS’d.” Dit gaan dikwels gepaard met trane, en altyd ’n diep dankbaarheid.

Ons het nie beheer oor die ongebruikte babaskoene wat verkoop moet word nie. Maar ons kan ten volle verantwoordelik wees om ander mense se teleurgestelde verwagtings om te keer. Met hope liefde, met aandag, sorg, ondersteuning en toewyding. Met empatie en begrip. Binne ons vermoëns en hulle behoeftes, met ’n oorvloed liefde.

Ek en jy moet kyk en luister. Jy hoor elke dag by mense van hulle teleurgestelde verwagtings. Party praat net moeiliker daaroor as andere. Maar meestal, meestal kan ons mekaar se lewens in ’n reis verander wat uiteindelik sinvol is. Begin deur te sê: “Ek is lief vir jou. Dankie vir alles wat jy opgeoffer het, ten spyte van jou teëspoed en teleurgestelde verwagtings. Jy maak vir my die lewe die moeite werd.”

So kan ons almal met ’n glimlag op die mond, en nie ’n traan in die oog nie, die lewe verlaat.

2025 Fouriesburg Rally, Historic Debut in the Free State

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Sport

Encee van Huyssteen

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February 24, 2025

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2025 Fouriesburg Rally, Historic Debut in the Free State

By William Louw

A New Chapter in South African Rallying

The 2025 Fouriesburg Rally marks a significant milestone as the first-ever National Rally Championship (NRC) and Northern Regions Rally Championship event to take place in this Free State town.

The charming town of Fouriesburg lies nestled in a picturesque Brandwater basin, surrounded by the majestic Witteberg and Rooiberge mountain ranges. Strategically situated near the border of Lesotho, Fouriesburg is separated from its neighbouring country by the tranquil Caledon River.

This breathtaking setting provides the perfect backdrop for the opening round of the 2025 Rally season, promising an unforgettable experience for drivers, teams, and spectators alike! After years of talking about the Free State not being part of the National Championship, we’re thrilled to bring the NRC to the Free State,” said the organizers. “This won’t be your typical ‘Mielie field Grand Prix’ – expect challenging stages with twists, turns, and varying elevations that will push drivers to their limits.”

As the first national rally of the year, this event promises to deliver high-octane action, thrilling stages, and intense competition among the country’s top rally drivers.

Set against the breathtakingly beautiful landscape of the Eastern Free State, the rally will also showcase the region’s warm hospitality, thanks to the enthusiastic farming community.

A New Era of Competition

The 2025 Fouriesburg Rally promises to be an unforgettable event, featuring a diverse range of classes and top-tier teams. This year’s competition is expected to be fierce, with several notable drivers vying for the top spot.

Rally Royalty: Benjamin Habig Jr. Sets Sights on 2025 Championship

Benjamin Habig Jr., son of the legendary Jan Habig, is gearing up to make a statement in the 2025 rally season. Behind the wheel of his potent VW Polo 4-WD turbo, Habig Jr. is determined to carve out his own niche in the rallying world. Like father like son.

With the experienced and accomplished Barry White calling the pace notes, this dynamic duo is a force to be reckoned with. Their sights are firmly set on the 2025 Rally Championship title, and nothing less than the top step of the podium will suffice.

With a point to prove and a legacy to uphold, Habig Jr. is expected to push the limits, thrill the crowds, and leave it all on the rally stages. Will this be the year he etches his own name into the rally history books?

Defending Champion Chris Coertse Revs Up for Another Title

Reigning National Rally Championship winner and 4-WD champion, Chris Coertse, is gearing up to defend his title in the 2025 season. Behind the wheel of his trusty Mazda 2, backed by the experienced Rally Technic team, Coertse is poised to continue his winning streak.

A Two-Time National Champion, Coertse’s impressive resume boasts National Championship crowns in both 2022 and 2024. His expertise and skill will undoubtedly make him a formidable opponent on the rally stages.

New Navigator, New Challenges?

While Coertse’s driving prowess and consistency is unmatched, the identity of his navigator for the upcoming season remains a mystery. Will he reveal a surprise co-driver, or will a familiar face return to the hot seat? One thing is certain – this team is always full of surprises, and fans can expect an exciting ride.

Dynamic Duo Returns: Anton and Isabel Raaths

Reigning 2-WD Champions, Anton and Isabel Raaths, are revving up for another exciting season in 2025. Isabel was the first competitor to renew their competitor’s license, hinting at their eagerness to defend their title. The thrill of victory has clearly left them hungry for more.

The team has made history by becoming the first-ever winners of the newly established 2WD championship, proudly sanctioned by Motorsport South Africa. This milestone achievement sets a shining example for fellow 2WD competitors to strive for excellence.

The introduction of this new championship is a testament to the forward-thinking approach of the Rally steering committee, paving the way for a brighter future in South African rallying. This innovative initiative is a significant step forward, and we can’t wait to see the impact it will have on the sport.

Will Supermodel Rally Chick Andrea Duarte Make a Comeback?

Rumour has it that their daughter, our very own supermodel Rally chick, Andrea Duarte, might be trading her modelling heels for racing gear again. After taking a break to start a family, Andrea’s return to the driver’s seat would undoubtedly bring an extra layer of excitement to the competition. Stay tuned!

Toyota Gazoo Racing Team Gears Up for Success

The Toyota Gazoo Racing team, expertly managed by multiple Rally Champion Guy Botterill, is poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming season. Leading the charge will be team driver Mandla Mdakane, who has seamlessly transitioned from circuit racing to rallying.

Mdakane’s Gravel Mastery

This talented driver has quickly adapted to the demands of gravel stages, demonstrating exceptional skill and comfort behind the wheel of a rally car. With his growing experience and confidence, Mdakane is expected to be a formidable force on the rally stages.

Toyota Gazoo Racing Team Roars Back in 2025

After a challenging 2024 season plagued by mechanical issues, the Toyota Gazoo Racing team is more determined than ever to turn the tables and fly the Toyota flag high in 2025.

With valuable lessons learned and improvements made, this resilient team is poised to bounce back stronger and more focused, driven by a fierce determination to succeed. Get ready to witness the Toyota team’s resurgence as they take on the competition with renewed energy and a winning spirit!

The Swazi Cowboy Rides Again

Get ready for another thrilling season with the one and only Jono Van Wyk, affectionately known as the Swazi Cowboy! This exceptionally talented driver is renowned for his unwavering passion, unrelenting drive, and impeccable sportsmanship.

Jono’s insatiable need for speed and adrenaline is matched only by his ability to bounce back from adversity. Despite facing a string of bad luck last season, he remains undeterred, dusting himself off and charging forward with unbridled enthusiasm.

The big question on everyone’s mind: what will Jono be driving this season? One thing’s for sure – with his exceptional skills and fearless attitude, he’ll be a force to be reckoned with, no matter what machine he’s behind the wheel of!

A Game-Changing Class

The AR 2 class, specifically designed for cars like Van Niekerk’s VW Polo, aims to revolutionize the sport by attracting more competitors to the entry-level 4-WD rally car scene. This class offers a unique opportunity for drivers to compete with the big boys in AR 1, making it an irresistible draw for any petrol head looking for a competitive edge.

Rally enthusiasts will have to wait a little longer to see the highly anticipated VW Polo AR 2 car in action. Unfortunately, Paul Van Niekerk will not be taking the start line at the Fouriesburg Rally due to pressing business commitments.

All eyes will now be on the 2025 NTT Tzaneen Rally, where Van Niekerk is expected to make his debut behind the wheel of the sleek new Polo. The wait may be a little longer, but the excitement and anticipation are sure to build!

Northern Regions Champions Return with a Vengeance

Reigning Northern Regions Champions, Johan Strauss and Elzaan VD Schyff, are gearing up to take the competition by storm in their brand-new, rebuilt Subaru Impreza. This dynamic duo has already proven that their trusty “Scooby” is more than just a rugged rally car – it’s a flying machine!

Strauss’s daredevil driving style has left fans in awe, as he effortlessly sends his Subaru soaring over jumps, redefining the limits of rally driving. The spectacle is truly breathtaking, leaving onlookers speechless and craving more. Get ready for another adrenaline-fueled performance from these Northern Regions Champions!

The Return of a Rally Legend: Theuns Joubert

After a forced hiatus due to gearbox woes, stalwart rally driver Theuns Joubert is expected to make a triumphant return to the rally scene in 2025. His S2000 Toyota Auris was sorely missed in the 2024 championship, and fans are eagerly awaiting his comeback.

Hailing from Tzaneen, Theuns, paired with trusty co-driver Schalk Van Heerden, forms a team that’s an integral part of the rally fabric. With years of experience and a reputation for delivering impressive performances, this duo is sure to shake things up upon their return.

A Star-Studded Lineup Awaits

In addition to the talented drivers already mentioned, our 2025 championship will feature a plethora of other rally superstars, each bringing their unique brand of speed, skill, and excitement to the table.

From seasoned veterans to rising stars, this year’s lineup promises to deliver non-stop action, heart-stopping drama, and unforgettable moments that will keep fans on the edge of their seats.

Stay tuned for more updates and get ready to witness the ultimate battle for rally supremacy!

A New Era Dawns on South African Rallying

The 2025 season is shaping up to be a game-changer for rallying in South Africa. With a slew of brand-new cars still in production, this year promises to usher in a monumental shift in the sport.

Expect a thrilling mix of innovative technology, fresh talent, and seasoned veterans pushing the limits. The stage is set for an unforgettable season that will redefine the face of South African rallying.

New Cars, New Names, New Strategies

The 2025 rally season is shaping up to be the most electrifying yet! Several teams are revving up with brand-new cars, fresh driver lineups, and innovative strategies.

But that’s not all – the National Rally Championship (NRC) has also thrown a curveball into the mix. In a bid to shake things up, the NRC has introduced changes to its scoring formula. For the first time, class points will take precedence over overall finishing positions, adding a new layer of complexity and excitement to the competition.

With these changes in place, the stage is set for a season of high-octane action, tactical battles, and unexpected twists. Who will rise to the top and claim the championship title? Stay tuned to find out!

Power Stages and Bonus Points

The introduction of Power Stages on all events will add an extra layer of excitement to the competition. The top 5 finishers in each Power Stage will receive bonus points, which could significantly impact the overall standings. This game-changing element will raise the stakes, creating an unpredictable and thrilling competition that will keep fans on the edge of their seats until the very end of the season.

The Countdown Begins!

Get ready to shift into high gear, folks! The 2025 Rally season is just around the corner, and it’s shaping up to be an unforgettable ride. Mark your calendars for 25-26 April, as the action unfolds in a brand-new location: the picturesque town of Fouriesburg, nestled in the breathtaking Free State province.

Join us for a weekend of adrenaline-fueled action, heart-stopping drama, and non-stop excitement. The stage is set, the drivers are ready, and the rally community is buzzing.

To the farmers, Greater Fouriesburg Tourism NPC, Fouriesburg Agricultural Association, and the wonderful locals of Fouriesburg, we extend our deepest gratitude for your warm hospitality and generous support.

Your contribution to this event has been instrumental in its success, and we are forever grateful. Thank you for embracing and sharing your beautiful community with us.

Your hospitality, kindness, and willingness to share your beautiful surroundings with us have made this event truly special. We couldn’t have done it without you! Thank you again for being an integral part of our rally family!

Don’t miss the thrilling kick-off to the 2025 Rally season!

Date: 25-26 April 2025

Location: Fouriesburg, Free State

Sasol’s finances continue to deteriorate

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Encee van Huyssteen

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February 24, 2025

0

South African petrochemical firm, Sasol, opened a new page on Monday and skipped paying a dividend after reporting a 31% decline in half-year profit on a fall in oil prices and lower sales volumes.

This is while Sasol’s finances continue to deteriorate as the gas and petrochemical giant faces a low oil price and declining sales volumes.

Sasol’s headline earnings per share for the six months to December 2024 were R14.13, down from R20.37 during the same period a year earlier. A decrease of 31%

Sasol’s financial performance for the six months ended 31 December 2024 was impacted by a challenging macroeconomic and operating environment.

The Revenue of R122,1 billion is 10% lower than the prior period, mainly as a result of:

A 13% decline in the average Rand per barrel Brent crude oil price and a significant decline in refining margins and fuel price differentials; and
A 5% decrease in sales volumes as a result of lower production and lower market demand as detailed in the Production and Sales Metrics published on 23 January 2025, which can be found on their website: https://www.sasol.com/sasol-sens/production-and-sales-metrics-six-months-ended-31-december-2024

Adjusted earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization (adjusted EBITDA) of R23,9 billion is 15% lower compared to the prior period mainly as a result of the aforementioned lower revenue with stringent cost management implemented in response helping to mitigate the impact. The relative contribution from International Chemicals increased from 6% to 13%. Earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) of R9,5 billion is 40% lower than the prior period and impacted by non-cash adjustments including:

A net loss of R6,2 billion from re-measurement items compared to a net loss of R5,8 billion in the prior period, mainly due to further impairments of the Secunda liquid fuels refinery cash generating unit (CGU) of R5,0 billion and the Sasolburg liquid fuels refinery CGU of R0,6 billion. Both CGUs remain fully impaired, resulting in amounts capitalized during the current period being impaired.
Unrealised losses of R0,1 billion on the translation of monetary assets and liabilities, and valuation of financial instruments and derivative contracts compared to unrealised gains of R2,7 billion in the prior period. As a result of the above, basic earnings per share (EPS) decreased by 52% to R7,22 per share and headline earnings per share (HEPS) decreased by 31% to R14,13 per share compared to the prior period.

Sasol also reported a 5% decrease in sales volumes as a result of lower production and lower market demand.

The company said it did not declare a dividend because it ended the period with a negative free cash flow of R1.1 billion, while its net debt of $4.3 billion exceeded levels set in its capital allocation policy.

STABILITY IN GOVERNANCE: THE LINCHPIN OF WATER SECURITY IN SOUTH AFRICA

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Encee van Huyssteen

-

February 24, 2025

0

STABILITY IN GOVERNANCE: THE LINCHPIN OF WATER SECURITY IN SOUTH AFRICA

South Africa’s water sector is at a critical juncture. As the country grapples with the challenges of climate change, urbanization, and economic development, the need for a stable and effective water governance system has never been more pressing.

The Association of Water and Sanitation Institutions of South Africa (AWSISA) has been at the forefront of advocating for stability in governance as a prerequisite for water security. Recently, the organization has observed with great appreciation the efforts of the Minister of Water and Sanitation, Hon. Pemmy Majodina, to stabilize the sector. Minister Majodina has correctly identified the challenge facing the sector, which lies in the municipalities. The Minister’s efforts to address these challenges and promote stability in governance are commendable. AWSISA urges the Minister to continue her good work of stabilizing governance in the sector.

The Importance of Stable Governance

Stable governance is essential for ensuring water security. The success of bulk water provision is premised on stable accounting authorities, specifically boards of directors. The stability of these boards is crucial for ensuring continuity and consistency in policy implementation, ultimately contributing to water security.

The consequences of unstable governance are well-documented. The collapse of entities such as Eskom, South African Airways, and the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) can be attributed, in part, to governance challenges. These entities have faced significant difficulties in providing effective services due to instability in their governance structures.

Lessons from Other Sectors

In contrast, entities with stable governance structures have been able to provide effective services and contribute to the country’s development. The Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA), for example, has played a crucial role in maintaining stability in the financial sector.

Similarly, the stability of the South African Reserve Bank has been a cornerstone of the country’s economic stability. The Reserve Bank’s independence and stability have enabled it to make decisions that are in the best interests of the economy, without fear of political interference.

Way Forward

AWSISA believes that the stability of boards in the water sector is essential for ensuring water security. The association urges the Minister to continue her efforts to stabilize governance in the sector, ensuring that boards are able to provide effective leadership and guidance.

Furthermore, AWSISA commits to implementing measures to promote stability in the governance of the water sector, including, the following:

Promoting transparency and accountability. Boards should be transparent in their decision-making processes and accountable for their actions.
Developing effective governance frameworks. Governance frameworks should be developed to promote stability and effectiveness in governance.
Providing training and development opportunities. Board members should be provided with training and development opportunities to enhance their skills and knowledge.

By supporting AWSISA’s initiatives to implement these interventions, the benefit for the Minister is that of stable boards that embedded ethical leadership, good governance and provide effective strategic leadership that contribute to high water availability factor and therefore water security. When boards are stable and are allowed to serve their full-term, this stabilizes the institutions and strengthens governance. Instability in the accounting authority destabilizes institutions and has a potential to collapse them. The water sector has been fortunate to be led by executive authorities or Ministers that support accounting authorities or boards.

AWSISA appreciates this strategic leadership, and the stability brought into the sector.

AWSISA is a trade association that represents the interests of the water and sanitation industry in Africa.