Four (4) trucks were burned this morning at around 05:30 on the N2 between Piet Retief and Ermelo. Three (3) were seriously burned whilst one (1) only burned in the cabin. One passenger (lady) sustained burned wounds on her feet as she was allegedly asleep in one of the trucks. She was taken for medical help by the EMS vehicle.
It is alleged that people emerged from the grasses and approached the trucks with firearms and instructed the drivers to get out or otherwise they will burn them inside. They (drivers) then left and ran away. The trucks were then set alight.
No one has been arrested so far and the police are continuing with the investigation. The motive for the attacks is unknown at the moment.
Mpumalanga MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison Vusi Shongwe has condemned the two incidences of torching of trucks in the strongest possible terms.
The first incident took place on the N4 Toll Road near Machadodorp where five trucks were torched just before midnight on Sunday (09 July 2023). The second incident involved four trucks that were set alight on the N2 road between Piet Retief and Ermelo.
The MEC says the Security Cluster and all role players have since been called to work around the clock to bring the perpetrators to book.
He is also calling on members of the public and the trucking industry to provide any valuable information that may assist the police to bring the perpetrators to book.
“Although we don’t know whether the two cases are related or not, they are causing the country great damage and this, in our view, constitutes economic sabotage. The trucking industry plays an important role in the development of our economy and the sustenance of livelihoods.
We believe with a more coordinated effort in approaching this situation perpetrators will be brought to book. It is worrisome that trucks seem to be constantly targeted by some community members especially when they protest.
They have often blockaded the roads using trucks and this has placed many truck drivers’ lives in danger,” says MEC Vusi Shongwe.
Police urge anyone with any information on Crime to call the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111. Alternatively, members of the public can send information via MYSAPSAPP. All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.
TWO SUSPECTS ARRESTED FOR POSSESSION OF SUSPECTED DRUGS
In an effort to eradicate drug peddling in the society, police in Kriel arrested two suspects aged 25 and 45 who were found in possession of suspected drugs at Rietspruit in Kriel yesterday, Tuesday 11 July 2023.
Police acted on a tip-off after a whistleblower alerted them about a person who was carrying a plastic bag suspected to be loaded with drugs.
Members then advanced to the area as per directions given and found a man fitting the description of the suspect.
Upon noticing the men and women in Blue, he reportedly tried to shy away from the plastic bag that he was holding but members got hold of him and after checking what was contained inside the plastic bag, they discovered about nine pinches of substances wrapped in small plastics. The substances are suspected to be Nyaope which is worth about R360 in street value.
Shortly after the suspect was arrested, police were amazed when they noticed someone who immediately took to his heels as he saw the police.
Police then gave chase and cornered him as soon as he entered a house nearby.
He was then searched by the Police whereby 12 plastic bags containing some substance of powder, believed to be Nyaope were found in his possession. The street value thereof is estimated to be at about R480.
Photo for illustration only https://www.snl24.com/dailysun/news/national/pics-risks-of-using-nyaope-20171003
Both suspects are expected to appear at the Ga-nala Magistrate’s Court today, Wednesday 12 July 2023. As part of the investigation, the confiscated substances will be subjected to some form of testing at the forensic laboratory.
The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela has gladly welcomed the success whilst appreciating the partnership displayed by both members of the community members and the police. “To win a fight against crime, it is very important not to work in silos but to work jointly. Through successes that police members continually achieve, we hope that the exercise will somehow assist in restoring trust from the public,” said the General.
Police urge anyone with any information on Crime to call the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111. Alternatively, members of the public can send information via MYSAPSAPP. All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.
CHOOSING A PET FOR YOUR CHILD IS A BIG DECISION AND NOT ONE TO BE TAKEN LIGHTLY!
Research shows that a pet can contribute to a child’s development physically, by strengthening their immune system, and emotionally by creating an irreplaceable relationship. It is a great way to learn responsibility and compassion, however, it should never be at the expense of an animal and parents should be very involved in the care.
CHOOSING TO GET A PET
There are many factors to take into account including, but not limited to:
Your lifestyle. Do you have time to meet the needs of this animal? Children with busy schedules and families who travel a lot can’t spend enough time with their pets.
Your energy levels. If you are not very active, then getting a high-energy dog like a Border Collie or Jack Russell is a no-go.
Your resources. Most animals are very expensive to take care of and if you can’t afford veterinary visits, proper species-appropriate food, etc., then please do not let the animal pay the price. This includes vaccination, deworming, annual check-ups, microchip sterilization, etc.
Your commitment. Most of the time it is at least a 10 to 15-year commitment. If you are really committed, you will also do proper research about their needs before you decide on a specific pet. Are you willing to work on behaviour issues if they occur instead of just giving the pet away?
Your yard. All animals, including cats, should be kept safe in your yard. You need enough space for the animal to run and play. Small yards do not equal small dogs!
OTHER FACTORS
Some pets are much noisier, messier, or need lots of attention.
Some need social mates of a similar species and some are more solitary and some should not be kept with a particular other species.
Some get stressed or depressed easily.
Some have sensitive digestive systems, are prone to specific health conditions, and are sensitive to household chemicals or even items like candles, cookware, etc.
You might need a permit to have this animal, which may differ between provinces.
If a child or parent is scared of the particular specie, it could have a detrimental effect on the animal and the humans, for life.
Not all vets are experts on all types of animals especially exotic pets! Do you have a vet close by for this particular pet?
You need a plan for your pet in your will or in case of an emergency.
CHOOSING A PET FOR YOUR CHILD (C-C-C)
COMPATIBILITY – Some people are cat people and some are dog people. You need to choose a pet for your specific child. The behaviour of the animal is important because if they are nocturnal for instance, it will limit the time your child has to spend with them. Chinchillas might need cooler temperatures so if your child/family gets cold easily, then they are not ideal. If the animal is a low-energy species/breed or doesn’t like noise then a busy or loud child will not be compatible.
CARE – The age and sense of responsibility of your child as well as time to care for the pet, are important factors. The animal’s health, environment, diet, enrichment, intelligence, behaviour, and companionship are just some of the other factors to take into account. Some animals do not like cuddles or to be handled (many actually including cats and dogs). Rabbits e.g., have a heavy backside in relation to their head so picking them up wrong can hurt them badly. They can even break their own back with a single kick. We strongly advise against rabbits as starter pets for kids!
COST – Food, enrichment, and health care are just some factors when it comes to cost. No animal is “free”. Breeding cycles of some are a few days and inbreeding can happen in many species, so sterilization is key! Never get a pet if you can’t afford to meet ALL their needs!
Also, read why adoption is the only ethical option.
Image by Dr. Karen Becker
LET’S LOOK AT FISH FOR EXAMPLE
During the holiday a pet shop did a post saying that parents should get a Goldfish for their kids as it is a fun and easy way to teach children responsibility and they suggested that Goldfish are a great starter pet for kids. They also said that they only need a small tank, some food, and some water changes. As someone who research and write a lot on animal topics, I think it is terrible advice!
First, in my experience, pet shops, are rarely experts on animal needs and behaviours. They also fuel the animal trading industry and encourage impulse buying. Just because they sell a cage as an “African grey” cage or a fish tank for fish, does not make it the right cage or tank for that animal. I do not trust anyone who exploits animals for financial gain, to have the best interest of the animals at heart. We will bring an end to this terrible practice, but for now, we need the public to help by not supporting any form of exploitation of animals, especially pet shops that sell live animals and breeders.
Also, your child’s need for fun, just like visiting the circus, can and should never trump the life and needs of a sentient being. If you are getting a fish or any pet to show off, then you are doing it for the wrong reasons and the animals always pays the price.
That said, here are just a few reasons why fish are not good starter pets for kids and why they often suffer:
DISADVANTAGES OF FISH AS PETS
It costs more than you think.
They are long-term pets.
Setting up your aquarium takes time.
Aquariums require regular “skilled” maintenance.
Vacations require more planning.
They aren’t tactile and interactive so not companion animals
You can’t just buy the fish and put it in an aquarium. You need to perform a task called cycling your aquarium which is forcing your tank to go through the nitrogen cycle before you can just add a fish.
Did you ever consider taking your fish to the vet? Apart from the fact that we do not have exotic pet vets in our area, if you did not think that this might be necessary, then you should not have a fish. They are sentient beings who can feel pain and have needs.
Fish are not a temporary pet, although they can easily die with the wrong care. Most parents just flush it down the drain and buy a new one. This does not teach your child responsibility and also teaches them that animals can just be replaced.
Taking care of fish involves chemistry. You will need to regularly test the water to monitor pH, KH, GH, ammonia, nitrites and nitrates among others. In addition to testing the water quality, you also need to feed them species appropriate food, change the aquarium water, vacuum the bottom of the aquarium and clean the walls, rinse the filter and more. Personally, I do not trust the tap water for my pets.
Essential aquarium equipment, such as filters, heaters, air pumps, and lighting, all run on electricity. If you use a tank with a pump and electricity, do you have a backup when we have load shedding or days with unexpected power interruptions?
Going on holiday requires planning, as for other animals too, but this is not as easy as to play, and give food and water for a cat or dog. So, not anyone can just look after your fish.
If you truly meet their needs, the right size tank, and aquarium will cost money!
You need to understand their body language and most people can’t even read the easier body language of dogs.
The five freedoms of animal welfare is a good test of whether you are a good caretaker. Freedom from hunger/thirst, pain/injury/disease, discomfort, fear/distress, and freedom to express normal behaviour. You need to meet their needs with regards to food, water, enclosure (light, substrate and flooring, humidity, right size vertical and horizontal, temperatures, ventilation, etc.), safety, medical care, behaviour, enrichment (social, physical, food, cognitive, habitat, sensory) and more.
SAFETY
Safety needs to be one of the primary goals when mixing children and animals and should never be unsupervised!
NEVER LEAVE a young child alone with an animal, for any reason. Any dog can bite; any cat can scratch.
Provide feedback to children by pointing out signs that the animal is uncomfortable or scared. This helps develop a child’s understanding of the animal’s body language and maintains safety for all involved.
Encourage your child to be gentle when touching pets. Never allow children to pull tails, ears, or roughhouse with any animal. Never sit on or ride animals. “One hand is enough, two hands is to rough.”
Don’t encourage hugs, most animals do not enjoy hugging and this could easily end in a bite.
Never punish a growl. The growl is a way the animal communicates that they are uncomfortable. When you punish the growl, they might skip it next time and go straight to a bite.
Never allow a child to approach an unknown animal alone. Ask the animal’s guardian if they are child-friendly and then instead of approaching further, call the animal into your space for physical contact. If the animal does not approach, leave them alone because the animal’s consent should also matter!
OTHER CONSIDERATION
Teach your child that they are guardians, not owners because animals are sentient beings with feeling and not objects or commodities to dispose of when they are inconvenient. It creates a deeper level of compassion, respect, and responsibility for these sentient beings we choose to share our lives with.
Choosing the wrong pet for your child could have a lifetime effect on your child as well as on the pet themselves, especially when being passed on from one home to another over their lifespan. Some animals like parrots and tortoises can grow to be 60-plus years old.
If you choose to get exotic pets, then it is crucial to have an exotic pet vet in your area as not all vets are equipped or skilled enough to treat exotic animals even if they claim they can. So do your homework!
A great place to start is to visit various reputable animal rescues or sanctuaries with your children to learn more.
If you can no longer take care of the animal (may this never happen), please surrender them to the nearest SPCA or re-home only through a reputable organization. DO NOT GIVE THEM AWAY FOR FREE TO COMPLETE STRANGERS!
Check out this video on which animals will not be good pets for children due to cost and care requirements. The ones in the video are just some of the most common pets that are not ideal for children. I will also add rabbits to the list! (note the temperatures are not degrees Celsius)
For many reasons, we discourage keeping wild/exotic animals as pets or any animals in cages. When you support this, the cycle continues! Please do not support breeders, “free to good home” or pet shops (any animal dealers). Please sterilize your pets because we have a massive overpopulation crisis and many healthy pets (at least 2800 a day in SA) are euthanized annually because of it.
Next week we will look at a natural behaviour in dogs and why you should encourage digging!
A 40-YEAR-OLD MAN SENTENCED TO 10 YEARS IMPRISONMENT
A 40-year-old man Johannes Tau Phala, a Lesotho National was sentenced to 10 years imprisonment by Bethal Magistrates Court for murder.
Johannes Tau Phala sentenced to 10 years imprisonment
His conviction came after he was arrested by Detective Sergeant Andreas Strydom and Detective December Jele a day after and appeared at Bethal Magistrates Court for stabbing and killing his brother, Joseph Phala.
On Saturday 2021-08-28, police were summoned to the scene where they found the body of Joseph laying in a pool of blood covered with a blanket and the Mpumalanga Emergency Medical Services personnel, Mr Maxwell Lukhele Lukhele certified Joseph dead.
It is alleged that on the said date, a group of people were drinking in the house at Vaalbank farm near Bethal and the broke out between the deceased and Johannes where he(Johannes) stabbed the deceased, Joseph, multiple times with a knife and died on the scene.
Warrant Officer Mkateko Maluleke, an official draughtsman and photographer at Secunda Local Criminal Record Centre also attended the murder scene where she took photographs and conducted a swab from the knife found on the scene.
After the cruel act, Johannes left the scene and he was later arrested in Embalenhle outside Bethal. Johannes then appeared several times before Bethal Magistrate Court facing a charge of murder.
Recently during the trial, police officers including the detectives and other witnesses testified and presented evidence before the court, leading to Johannes’s sentencing.
After presenting evidence and testimonies to the court, the Magistrate saw it fit to keep Mr Johannes Tau behind bars and sentenced him to 10(Ten) years imprisonment and, in terms of section 103 Act 60/2000 of the firearm control Act, he was declared unfit to possess a firearm.
Police urge anyone with any information on Crime to call the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111. Alternatively, members of the public can send information via MYSAPSAPP. All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.
DA maak ‘n beroep op minister van Polisie, Beki Cele, om deeglike ondersoeke te loots na voorvalle van brandstigting op plase
Issued by Henro Kruger MP – DA Member of Portfolio Committee on Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
Henro Kruger MP – DA Member of Portfolio Committee on Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
Die Demokratiese Alliansie (DA) veroordeel brandstigting deur kriminele wat ons boere skade aan doen. Die kwaadwillige dade wat ons boere se reserwe voer vernietig is daarop gemik om onstabiliteit op ons plase te weeg te bring. Dit stel nie net voedselsekuriteit in gedrang nie maar het ook ‘n wesenlike invloed op die veiligheid van ons boere, hul families en werkers.
Die winter seisoen hou vir die landbou sektor aansienlike gevaar in deur dat menige plase in verskeie streke geteiken word deur kwaadwillige brandstigters. Hierdie aanvalle veroorsaak skade aan oeste, infrastruktuur en lewendehawe. Die geweldige finansiële verliese beteken ‘n negatiewe inpak op ons boere se vermoëns om die nasie te voed.
“Daar moet dringend aandag gegee word aan die onderliggende redes vir hierdie sinnelose dade,” sê Henro Kruger MP – DA Lid op die Portefeuljekomitee oor Landbou, Grondhervorming en Landelike Ontwikkeling, “Die DA is van mening dat ANC volstruis politiek speel en die regering wegskram wanneer dit kom by die knelpunte van die landbou sektor.”
“Die landbou sektor moet deur die regering gemotiveer en nie moedeloos gelaat word nie. Die staat moet veiligheid en die welstand van die boere en werkers op plase voor op die lys stel,” sê Kruger, “ Tydens Bheki Cele, Minister van Polisie, se onlangse begrotingsdebat, het hy versuim om enige vordering wat gemaak is met landelike veiligheid of landelike misdaad in sy toespraak te noem.”
“Ten spyte van die onlangse ontwikkeling van ‘n ‘Landelike Veiligheidstrategie’, is daar reeds twyfel oor die SAPD se verbintenis tot die strategie en of ons boere die vrugte daarvan gaan pluk.”
Die DA versoek dus die Minister van Polisie om deeglike ondersoeke te loots in al die voorvalle van brandstigting op plase gedurende 2023. Ons moet hierdie dade met wortel en tak uitroei. Dit is uiters belangrik dat die kriminele, verantwoordelik vir hierdie lafhartigde dade, behoorlik aan die pen moet ry. Brandstigting moet onmiddelik stop gesit word, sodat ons boere en hul werkers veilig kan voel in hulle werksomgewing.
Die DA is in solidariteit met die geafekteerde boere, hul families en plaaswerkers en bly verbind tot die bevordering van die regte van ons landbou gemeenskappe. Die DA neem kennis van hierdie onaanvaarbare uitdagings van ons voedselvevaardigers en staan aan die sy van die boer tot die ontwikkeling van ruim voedselsekuriteit vir al die inwoners van Suid Afrika.
Wees deel van die missie om Suid-Afrika te red, registreer korrek om nou te stem by check.da.org.za
Destruction and death in the wake of a devastating Free State veld fire (News24). Foto: Mlungisi Louw
The Democratic Alliance (DA) condemns arson by criminals who harm our farmers. The malicious acts that destroy our farmers’ reserve feed are aimed at bringing instability to our farms. This not only jeopardizes food security but also has a significant impact on the safety of our farmers, their families and workers.
“The winter season poses a considerable danger to the agricultural sector as many farms in various regions are targeted by malicious arsonists,” said Henro Kruger MP – DA Member of the Portfolio Committee on Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, “These attacks cause damage to crops, infrastructure and livestock. The enormous financial losses mean a negative impact on our farmers’ abilities to feed the nation.”
“Urgent attention needs to be given to the underlying reasons for these senseless acts,” said Kruger, “The DA is of the opinion that the ANC is playing ostrich politics and the government is shying away from the bottlenecks in the agricultural sector.”
The agricultural sector must be motivated by the government and not left discouraged. The state must put the safety and well-being of the farmers and workers on farms first on the list. During Police Minister Bheki Cele’s recent budget debate, he failed to mention any progress made on rural security or rural crime in his speech. Despite the recent development of a ‘Rural Security Strategy’, there are already doubts about the SAPS’s commitment to the strategy and whether our farmers will reap the benefits.
A copy of the latest Rural Security Strategy presentation can be accessed HERE
The DA, therefore, requests the Minister of Police to launch thorough investigations into all incidents of arson on farms during 2023. We must eradicate these acts at ground level. It is extremely important that the criminals responsible for these cowardly acts are brought to justice. Arson must be stopped immediately so that our farmers and their workers can feel safe in their working environment.
The DA stands in solidarity with the affected farmers, their families and farm workers and remains committed to promoting the rights of our agricultural communities. The DA takes note of these unacceptable challenges to our food manufacturers and stands by the farmer’s side in the development of ample food security for all the inhabitants of South Africa.
Be part of the mission to save South Africa, register correctly to vote now at check.da.org.za
PREPARATIONS AHEAD OF THE PEAK FIRE SEASON IN KRUGER NATIONAL PARK
The Kruger National Park (KNP) has embarked on controlled burns in preparation for the upcoming peak fire season. The organisation apologises for any inconvenience that might be caused because of this necessary action to avoid runaway fires which could lead to loss of life and damage to infrastructure. Every winter, as the dry season starts in KNP, fires are a common occurrence in the park. Fires are a natural part of the environment in KNP. The vegetation and animals have adapted to fires in this landscape and rely on fires to maintain a healthy, functioning ecosystem.
There is a relationship between how much rain is received during the rainy season, and how much grass grows in response to the rain, which then affects how much area is burned in the dry season. Fires occur when there is sufficient grass to sustain a fire, the correct weather conditions, and an ignition source.
Considering the extremely high amounts of rain during the previous wet season, KNP is expecting more fires this winter (hot dry weather) compared to last year. For the last few years, roughly 15% of the park had burned annually.
“This year we are expecting more than 20% of KNP to burn” says Abiotic Scientist, Tercia Strydom. “The park monitors and maps all fires using both ground reports as well as advanced satellite mapping techniques”, she concluded.
The majority of these burns will be conducted by the park’s Rangers both for ecological and fire safety reasons. Due to the exceptional amounts of grass in the veld, the risk of large wildfires burning later in the dry season increases.
Therefore, the Rangers have already begun burning fires earlier in the dry season to help break up the grass loads into smaller patches thereby reducing the fire risk. In addition, KNP as part of the Greater Kruger Fire Protection Association has started implementing firebreaks around infrastructure such as camps, staff quarters, entry gates and along the Parks boundary.
By having a trained and equipped team of Rangers and using proactive fire management techniques such as burning to reduce grass loads and constructing firebreaks, KNP will be well prepared for the winter fire season.
CARBON CAPTURE UTILISATION AND STORAGE PROJECT: 3D SEISMIC SURVEY AND DRILLING – Notice ofreview of Draft Abbreviated Environmental and Social Impact Assessment Report
Project Background
The Council for Geoscience (CGS) is undertaking a geoscientific research project for the piloting of Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) in Leandra in the Mpumalanga Province, where it is proposed to inject carbon dioxide (CO2) into deep suitable geological formations, approximately 1km below the surface.
The Government of South Africa (SA) has partnered with the World Bank to finance the CCUS Project and hereby intends to conduct geological characterisationcomprising of drilling a stratigraphic well and undertaking a high-resolution 3D seismic survey at the proposed injection site, as well as supporting structures. This notification only focuses on the geological characterisation component of the overall CCUS Project and not on the CO2 injection phase, which is being assessed separately.
3D Seismic Survey and Drilling
The project site falls under the Gert Sibande District Municipality and is located within Wards 1, 2 and 6 of the Govan Mbeki Local Municipality. The R29 runs through the central part of the overall project area. The GPS coordinates of the approximate centre of the proposed drill site are 26°22’4.84″S, 28°56’19.47″E.
Environmental and Social Impact Assessment
Nemai Consulting (Pty) Ltd was appointed by the CGS to undertake an abbreviated Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) for the 3D seismic survey and stratigraphic drilling required as part of the CCUS Project. The ESIA must satisfy the requirements of the WB Operational Policies as well as the SA environmental legal requirements.
Review of Draft Abbreviated ESIA Report
The draft abbreviated ESIA Report will be made available to stakeholders to review from 12 July until 14 August 2023.
The draft abbreviated ESIA Report can be accessed as follows:
Hardcopies of the report will be placed in the following public places –
Leandra Public Library;
Lebohang Public Library; and
Secunda Public Library.
An electronic copy was uploaded to the following website, for downloading purposes: https://nemai.co.za/downloads/.
Written comments on the report need to be forwarded to the contact person below within the abovementioned period.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT SAVING A LIFE THROUGH ADOPTION!
South Africa is overflowing with unwanted dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens, even rabbits, birds, and other animals. It’s sad to think that most of these animals in shelters will never experience a loving home and the security of a family they deserve. Last week we looked at why breeding animals fuels this problem, so this week we will look at how you can save a life and help decrease the burden on animal welfare organizations.
The sad reality is that although we promote adoption, we can’t adopt our way out of this crisis. Do you know 30 homes that want to adopt? I don’t, and that is the number of animals that easily come into one shelter per month and there are thousands of shelters. People selfishly breed and abandon animals faster than we can save them.
We understand that it seems easier to buy a pet, but buying a pet is part of the problem. The pet industry in South Africa is not regulated and pet shops do not promote responsible pet ownership (sterilizations, home checks, etc.). They make their profits by promoting impulse buying. I am not even talking about all the “free to good home” ones on social media.
This article is a reprint that was first published on 05/07/2013
WHAT IS ADOPTION?
Many animals come in as strays found and other animals are dumped, abandoned, or surrendered by their owners. If these animals are not claimed by their owners within the pound period, the shelter has two options namely, euthanize or adoption. Adoption is when you give an animal from a registered and responsible rescue organization/shelter a second chance, as part of your family. You will pay an adoption fee and go through a process of responsible homing.
WHEN YOU ADOPTYOU CHANGE MORE THAN ONE LIFE!
Here are a few of the many benefits of adopting a pet:
You not only save a life but will also make resources and space available for the next one to be rescued.
If you can do the math, you know you will save money by adopting!
Adopted pets for the most part are already “trained”.
You also help to lighten the load of a shelter that rescues animals and make the rescuers go on for just one more day.
By adopting from a reputable shelter, it also allows you to take a stand against pet stores, puppy mills, and breeders and you do your part to put a dent in the pet-for-profit trade.
You can also build a relationship with the shelter that can really come in handy!
There is no greater kindness you can offer a frightened, confused shelter pet than a place in your heart and home. Many adoptive parents can attest to the special bonds created after adoption.
Also, read more about ethical choices when it comes to your wardrobe.
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE ADOPTING
Are you ready for a pet?
Can you afford pet care in the long term?
Have you researched their specific needs and can you meet these needs?
Does the animal fit your family’s lifestyle?
If you live in a townhouse complex, written approval from the body corporate, that pets are allowed, must be obtained.
Municipal By-laws must be adhered to with regard to the allowed number of pets.
You may never know their breed, medical history, or behavioural history.
You will have to pet-proof your home beforehand.
Get the necessary items for your car and for travel.
You will still need to buy beds, blankets, toys, leashes, deworm every 3 months, vaccinate every year, and buy good food every month, this does not even include saving for an emergency!
They need to be spayed/neutered and a form of identification added, which is usually included in the adoption.
Social animals should not be the only animals in the house and most need to be around their own species.
They might need some training and patience to build trust, more time to adjust, and might not get along with all people or animals.
Choosing the right breed for your lifestyle is however especially important.
Never make a decision based only on a dog’s look, size, breed, etc. The energy level of that animal should fit with that of your family.
OUT-OF-TOWN ADOPTIONS
Adopting an animal from a shelter in another town is possible. Usually, a local animal rescue or SPCA in your town will do the home check. Out-of-town adoption however will cost more, and the travel stress can be a lot for the animal. If you change your mind, you can’t expect the shelter to cover the costs. So really think this through and commit 100% before you choose this option.
WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT DURING THE PROCESS OF ADOPTING A PET?
The process and policy might differ between organizations. The process usually includes an application form, meet & greet, home check, paying an adoption fee, signing an adoption contract, sterilization, and follow-up. Depending on availability for sterilization at the Veterinarian or home check schedules, this can be completed in as little as 3 or 4 days.
Irresponsible homing is not rescue! Because there are far too many irresponsible organizations (yes in our area too) as well as scammers out there, we consider it to be a responsible adoption only when it includes the following:
The organization must be registered and have a clear adoption policy as well as transparency and accountability.
Must have a comprehensive adoption application.
Must require proof of address and a copy of the adopter’s ID.
Must do a home check in person.
They must not breed or support breeding in any form. These are the biggest hypocrites “in” animal welfare.
May not allow adoption for someone else as this is highly irresponsible and no reputable and responsible organization will do this.
Must have an adoption contract that includes a sterilization policy and return policy.
Should do follow-up post-adoption.
Meet and greet with all the family members (humans and animals) is important.
We believe the adoption fee should at least include, sterilization, deworming, treatment for ticks and fleas, first vaccination, microchip, and ID collar.
Please note – If it is an individual who is “re-homing” their dogs or their friends, or giving animals away for free, or selling them, then it is not an adoption and they are part of the problem by abusing the term ‘adoption’ and fueling this massive overpopulation crisis. Selling animals on Facebook goes against their community standard and should be reported to Facebook and the group admins.
ABOUT ADOPTION FEES
If you think adoption fees are too expensive, then we will advise that you rather not get a pet. If you do the math a responsible pet owner would do, then you will know that the adoption fee which includes sterilization and more, is relatively inexpensive compared to the cost of purchasing a pet, or even compared to getting a pet for free, and that is excluding the animal itself.
EXAMPLE – Take a medium-sized female dog in Secunda and surrounding areas:
WHEN YOU BUY (Excluding cost for the animal itself.)
Sterilization easily up to R1500
Microchipping R375
Deworming R60
Vaccinations R400
TOTAL: R2335
WHEN YOU ADOPT
If all of the above are included in our area, it is around R1250 plus the fact that you saved a life…………which is priceless! That is a R1085 difference plus you just pick up the animal with all of it done already so saving on time and petrol.
Responsible pet owners will do all of the above for their animals and more. So, when you say adoption fees are too much, I would seriously question your math skills and sense of responsibility. If you can’t afford adoption fees, then I doubt you will be able to properly care for that animal, even if your heart is in the right place!
Adoption – Image by The Paw Company
HOME CHECKS
This is one of the most important aspects when it comes to the credibility of responsible animal welfare organizations. As a prospective adopter, you do not have to be afraid of a home check! You might learn some valuable information about being a pet owner or things to look for and so, you can help educate others to ipmrove the lives of animals! You can also build a relationship with a very knowledgeable person which can come in handy in the future. Most organizations will give you time to make the necessary, reasonable changes and still adopt.
SOME HOME CHECK CONSIDERATIONS INCLUDE:
Access to basic needs like food, water, and shelter.
Fences, swimming pools, neighbour’s animals, and surrounding areas.
Inspection of the other animals in the home, their general condition as well as their behaviour toward their owners and other animals.
Children and their attitude towards the animals.
If the organization doesn’t include both a home check and sterilization then they are NOT A RESPONSIBLE ORGANIZATION and we consider them to be a pet shop. By supporting them you help fuel this massive overpopulation crisis. No matter what they call it, and even if they are registered!
Organizations get blamed for being too strict when it comes to adoptions. If the process is too ‘hard’ for you, the commitment to the animal for their life will be impossible for you. You must remember that we are responsible for the life of a sentient being, not just an object you buy at the shop and can return or throw away when you are not happy. It is not just about a good home, but about the right placement for the animal, considering their needs and the availability of resources to meet those needs.
One popular critique is not allowing adoptions when all the animals in the yard are not sterilized. It is a standard practice among reputable rescues to require any existing animals to be sterilized, even if you adopt a dog and have a cat. It is counterintuitive to our mission as rescuers to allow puppies, kittens, or bunnies to be homed where there are unsterilized animals. We would not have this massive overpopulation crisis if people sterilized their pets. It is about responsible pet owners.
REMEMBER
It may take some time to gain the adopted pet’s trust.
After adoption they need time to adjust (3 months at least) and they might be scared at first or for extended periods.
The stress and diet change (which should be done correctly and be species-appropriate) can likely cause diarrhea, or maybe constipation.
Even if the bond is instant, you don’t know your pet yet, so take the necessary precautions around other people, children, and pets, and do not introduce them to everyone at once. You are their advocate.
Get some professional help from a qualified behaviourist (there is a difference between a trainer and a behaviourist) if there are any behaviour concerns.
Shelters will not knowingly give you a sick animal, but also contact them when in doubt.
Not being “purebred” can actually be beneficial.
It is crucial to set the “house rules” and the whole family needs to stick to them and be consistent, so as not to confuse the animals.
Adoption – Image by Beyond Behaviour
Rescue is the best breed! We always advise you to go and meet the animals available at your local shelter. Shelter pets are not broken, they were only failed by humans, but most people only realize this after they have volunteered at the shelters. Adopting an adult pet can even be better than a puppy and you might just fall in love with one that you never thought of.
There are breed-specific shelters and shelters for birds, rats, bunnies, and other critters. If you like a particular breed, there are many different ones up for adoption through breed-specific rescues (e.g., google “Poodle” rescue SA). If you can’t find the pet you’re looking for locally, consider widening your search but keep in mind the stress for the animal if you adopt from out-of-town.
In a world where thousands of animals (about 2800 in SA alone) are humanely killed (PTS/Euthanized) EVERY DAY…… adoption is the only ethical option! Visit your nearest reputable shelter and make a difference today! ADOPT DON’T SHOP!
Next week we will look at choosing an animal for your child.
Air Liquide Builds Secunda Business Hub to promote the development of SMMEs
Air Liquide Large Industries South Africa (Pty) Ltd (ALLISA), is proud to announce its sponsorship and collaboration alongside Lean Enterprise Acceleration Programme (LEAP) on a community initiative aimed at supporting local SMMEs through the launch of the Secunda Business Hub. This initiative is aimed at assisting with resources to expand and grow local businesses. By leveraging the expertise and resources of LEAP, Air Liquide believes that the Secunda Business Hub will deliver tangible and sustainable results to the community.
The Business Hub which was built in just 6 months will be able to reach hundreds of local community members within the area of Govan Mbeki Municipality (GMM) district. The Centre is optimally located to reach entrepreneurs who are unemployed and seeking to enhance their entrepreneurship abilities, thus creating employment.
The Secunda Business Hub will provide entrepreneurs with access to business support such as, but not limited to:
• Free internet/hotdesking
• Business support; Enterprise & Supplier Development Programmes
In addition to offering a platform for business activities, the Business Centre also aims to make provision for the following:
Mentor black owned SMME’s with in-depth business support and development,
Dedicated support by means of a qualified Nurse/counselor to allow victims of gender-based violence to receive support.
Allowing SMMEs to visit the Business Centre and consult with Leap SMME Credit
Through this project,Air Liquide aims to make a meaningful and positive impact on the GMM District. Partnering with LEAP, will ensure that the Secunda Business Hub receives professional management and guidance as the organisation has extensive experience in the execution of similar programs.
“Entrepreneurs have the power to create jobs and sustainable income in order to support Local Communities in a dignified manner. The Secunda Business Hub is an initiative that will provide the necessary incubation business support to help those who wish to improve their lives through entrepreneurship. The Secunda Business Hub is a free and safe environment containing the necessary technology and mentorship support to guide and assist visitors through this journey. It’s an honour to be a part of such an exhilarating project.” – Pete Colombo, LEAP CEO.
Peter Colombo
The Secunda Business Hub which was launched on 27 June 2023 to different dignitaries invited from the local municipality, government officials and other key stakeholders, will officially open its doors to the community on 03 July 2023. To date, over 110 young entrepreneurs have benefited from the company’s Enterprise and Supplier development initiative and the aim of the Hub is to be able to reach even more people over time.
For further information or enquiries regarding the Secunda Business Hub, please contact LEAP on: Secundahub@leapco.co.za
