MPUMALANGA – Bongani Sibuyi (31) was found guilty and sentenced by the Bushbuckridge Magistrate Court for fraud and money laundering on Friday, 3 March 2023. The sentence was preceded by a lengthy and scrupulous exploration which was effected by the Serious Corruption Investigation team of the Hawks in Nelspruit.
Bongani Sibuyi (31)
The probe revealed that over the period between 2017 and 2018, Bongani Sibuyi recruited unemployed youth from poor rural areas of Bushbuckridge to be part of a skills development learnership programme. More than 300 youth registered for the project and they were informed to pay an administration fee of R250 each into a company account.
Learners were promised to receive a stipend of R3500 per month. A few months after the commencement of the project, learners embarked on a strike due to non-payment of the stipend as promised and as such the programme could not proceed.
It was found that the company was not registered with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC). Moreover, it was also not accredited by Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA).
The money deposited was not used for the purpose it was intended for, subsequently, Sibuyi was arrested with his partner. Swindler Sibuyi was found guilty of fraud and sentenced to thirty-six (36) months imprisonment or R60000,00 half of which is suspended whilst his partner was cleared on all charges.
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.
CARBON CAPTURE UTILISATION AND STORAGE (CCUS) PROJECT: 3D SEISMIC SURVEY AND DRILLING ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT
Project Background
Carbon Capture Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) has been acknowledged by South Africa (SA) as one of the technologies to mitigate the emission of CO2 into the atmosphere and forms one of the Nationally Appropriate Mitigation Actions (NAMA) against climate change. It is also one of the national flagship projects. CCUS forms part of a just transition to a future low-carbon energy economy.
The Council for Geoscience (CGS) is undertaking a geoscientific research project for the piloting of CCUS in Leandra in Mpumalanga, where it is proposed to inject CO2 into deep suitable geological formations, approximately 1km below the surface. The Government of SA has received funding from the World Bank’s International Bank for Reconstruction and Development to finance the CCUS project and intends to apply part of the proceeds for conducting Geological Characterisation comprising, amongst others, of drilling exploration boreholes and undertaking high-resolution 3D seismic survey at the proposed site. This notice only focuses on the Geological Characterisation component of the overall CCUS.
3D Seismic Survey and Drilling
The proposed drilling site is located along the R29 from Leandra to Kinross and is bounded to the south by a railway line from Secunda to Springs. The area earmarked for the 3D seismic survey encompasses most of the town of Leandra, as well as rural areas to the east and north-east.
The boreholes will be cored from the top of the bedrock to total depth with a minimum hole diameter of c. 95 mm. At various intervals during the drilling, suites of geophysical instruments will be installed in the borehole to obtain geophysical information. In addition, tests to determine the presence and quantity of gasses, e.g., hydrocarbons/light gasses, and tests to determine hydrological information will be conducted at systematic horizons, e.g., where water strikes are intersected, in the borehole.
The purpose of the high-resolution 3D survey for the CCUS Project is to map the structures, reservoir and seal rocks in detail over the identified potential injection site. The 3D survey will also establish the baseline for future time-lapse CO2 monitoring activities. The seismic waves will be induced by vibrating truck-mounted heavy plates on the ground. These specialised trucks are known as “Vibroseis”. By analysing the time it takes for the seismic waves to reflect off subsurface formations and return to the surface, formations can be mapped. 3D surveys are acquired by laying out energy source points (vibroseis) and receiver points (geophones) in a grid over the area to be surveyed.
Environmental and Social Impact Assessment
Nemai Consulting was appointed by the CGS to undertake the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) for the 3D seismic survey and drilling required as part of the CCUS Project.
The ESIA must satisfy the following: • The World Bank Environmental and Social Framework, the General Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) Guidelines, Industry specific EHS Guidelines and Good International Industry Practice (GIIP); and • SA’s environmental legal requirements.
Note that a separate consultant is undertaking the ESIA for the injection phase of the CCUS Project.
Stakeholder Engagement
Stakeholder engagement will be undertaken as part of the ESIA. The following public meeting will be held to provide a platform for project-related discussions and to obtain input from stakeholders:
Date: 15 March 2023 Time: 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM Venue: Difa Nkosi Hall, Leandra (coordinates: 26°22’35.08″S, 28°55’19.72″E)
Please submit your contact information and any comments that you may have regarding the proposed CCUS: 3D seismic survey and drilling to the contact person below by 28 March 2023.
Contact Details of Environmental Assessment Practitioner:
Well-known Thomas Mandla Sibia was remanded in custody today on charges of rape
Well-known Thomas Mandla Sibia, was remanded in custody yesterday, 1 March 2023, on charges of rape. He is known for his work at the Siyanqoba Art Centre in eMbalenhle.
Thomas Mandla Sibia (Photo: Facebook)
Sibia had been arrested on two previous occasions and was granted bail on both charges. This time Magistrate Roos decided to remand him in custody.
In his bail application, Sibia made mention of his involvement in the community as well as in art. His centre, Siyanqoba, aims to help homeless children and some that are involved in drugs.
Well-known Thomas Mandla Sibia leading the Siyanqoba dancers (Photo: Facebook)
Sibia was represented by Adv Moloti. Adv Moloti read his statement into evidence as well as that of a member of a ward committee that supported the application for bail.
During the reading of the statement, Moloti stated (Sibia stated in his statement) that the charges against him were violating his rights. During cross-examination, the state prosecutor wanted to know what rights were violated but Magistrate Roos said that the line of questioning is irrelevant.
The state argued that the charges in the other bail applications that date back to 2018 involved minors. This case is already in the regional court. The state then asked about the merits of the previous cases and Roos questioned the line of examination. The state withdrew those questions.
The rape that Sibia was charged with in the newest case was one that dated back to 2013. Moloti argued that it would appear that Sibia is released only to face an arrest again. All the cases should be joined into one. So far 6 charges were made against Sibia.
Sibia leading his troop of dancers at a Sasol Function
Sergeant Nicole Nkosi is the investigating officer and she said that they are opposed to bail. She said that the community’s women and children cannot be safe as all the victims are minors. She said that the accused, Sibia, had a tendency to rape minors.
Nkosi then testified that DNA results have now been received which links Sibia to the 2013 case.
Roos then questioned that if the state was not satisfied with the previous bail and that by the second granting of bail, it was established that he was a serial rapist, why did they not appeal the bail. He asked what has changed.
Magistrate Roos said that he understands Sibia’s circumstances with his children and all the problems that they have. He then stated that the safety of the young girls and women of the community weighs heavier and that they should be protected.
The case was postponed until April 6 and Sibia was remanded in custody
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.
WOMEN IN MINING BENEFICIARY WANT TO TACKLE ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES THROUGH ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
Bridget Seroka, a Middelburg-based businesswoman in the field of environmental consulting, is one of Seriti’s group of beneficiaries of the Women in Mining programme, launched in May 2022. This programme was designed and managed by Collective Value Creation (CVC) and runs until the end of 2023.
Bridget Seroka
Ecological Fields Environmental Consultancy (Pty) Ltd was launched in April 2016 by Bridget and currently employs five people who provide technical environmental-related consulting services to the mining and public sector alike. These consulting services include aspects around Environmental Impact Assessments, Mining and Prospecting Right Applications, Environmental Compliance Monitoring and Auditing, Water, Soil and Air quality management and monitoring, Integrated Water Use Licenses (IWULA), Waste Management License and Application (NEMWA), and other environmental legislative requirements.
Having worked in both the mining and consulting spheres, Bridget realised that there was a niche that occurred between business entities, environmental compliance, social responsibility and the overall umbrella which is environmental legislation. She says she “aims to bridge the gap that exists between business corporations and environmental law.” Her challenges were, and to some extent still are, to gain access to the market, compete with established environmental companies, building and grow into an internationally recognised brand.
Her love for the environment started when she was one of five learners chosen to represent her high school in Environmental Projects and Presentations. This enabled her to meet and be mentored by officials from the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE). After school, she studied Environmental Science and Geology and then worked as an Environmental Assessment Practitioner, before she moved to Anglo-American as an Environmental Officer.
With the Women in Mining programme, Bridget hopes to learn more about developing her business, thereby growing it through applying sound strategies. So far, she has benefitted much by learning about the different components needed to grow her business. Each business owner on the programme has access to specialists acting as mentors in various areas such as sales, marketing, finance and personal development to improve their business activities. Ninety per cent of these mentors and business specialists on the programme are also female.
Bridget’s big dream is to take her business to an international level and master the necessary skills needed, such as information technology, especially programming and artificial intelligence, which she believes can be used to provide solutions to environmental challenges, thereby contributing positively to humankind and the biosphere. Coupled with this dream, she emphasises the need for environmental education for the youth. It is her vision to educate and train the younger generation about their impact on the environment as they can still be influenced and make some positive difference.
Asked what advice she would give women who want to go into a similar business, she had the following to say: “A successful business starts with a healthy mind. Nurture your mind by reading, exercising positive thinking, obtaining mentors and building valuable business associations, networks, and relationships.”
In her free time, Bridget enjoys game nights with her family, reading, and travelling. She believes being exposed to new places creates the opportunity to get new business ideas. She also meditates and reads poetry to quiet her mind, an activity used to enhance and cultivate one’s inner creativity.
If she could go back to her eighteen-year-old self, she would tell her to “Continuously develop and invest in oneself and acquire skills that will solve international problems from an early age. Spirituality, health and a sound mindset are essential building blocks.”
STORMY WEATHER AFFECTS MANY PETS AND THERE IS NO EXCUSE FOR NOT HELPING THEM COPE, OR FOR GETTING OUT OF YOUR YARD.
Why don’t people attend to the needs of their pets during stormy weather as they would tend to their child’s special needs? My heart breaks for those animals who are failed by their owners. There is always an increase in lost and injured pets after stormy weather or fireworks. In many cases, it is the same animals that are out in the streets and it is PREVENTABLE!
If your dog is afraid of stormy weather or other loud outside noises, leaving them outdoors while they are anxious or panicked is the worst thing you can do. Dogs regularly run away or seriously injure themselves attempting to escape outdoor enclosures or runs during stormy weather and other noisy events.
So many excuses are given by the owners including that they have tried “everything”, which I don’t believe. There will be very few exceptions where nothing worked. When we suggest options, they say money is the issue, however they can eat out, do their hair and nails, go on vacations, but they can’t take proper care of the animal they chose to have.
One of the five freedom of animal welfare includes the freedom from fear and distress and for me, this refers to love and understanding for the animals in your care and their needs. Creating an environment that is free from fear and distress is essential for their well-being. Not only is it important to provide them with the necessary physical comforts and to ensure that their mental health is taken into consideration, it is your moral duty.
Noise phobia is a reality and many cats, dogs and other animals can suffer from it. The good news is that you can do something about it if you care enough for those animals. I understand that we can’t control the weather, but you can do a lot to help them cope better with weather or other noise phobias.
Weather noise phobia – Image by The Paw Company
Also read about the natural and odd behaviours of pets.
WHAT IS NOISE PHOBIA?
Noise phobia describes a fearful reaction to certain sounds in the environment. It’s important to understand the difference between fear, anxiety, and phobia in your dog.
It is important to recognize that animals, both domesticated and wild, are naturally programmed to be scared of loud noises. This is an instinctive and evolutionary reaction to an unknown danger, which can cause the animal to flee before the brain has had time to process the sound. This can lead to harm. Generally, animals are more sensitive to their surroundings than humans. While both cats and dogs can suffer from noise phobias, it is more common in dogs.
Animals that depend on their hearing for survival are especially susceptible to the issues that come with noise pollution including prolonged exposure. If your pup is suffering from noise phobia, it is essential to address the issue quickly. Dogs that become sensitive to one sound are likely to become reactive to other noises too.
Common pet noise phobias include thunderstorms, fireworks and gunshots, but common household noises such as a vacuum cleaner, alarm and more can also be triggers and few pet parents take note of it. According to research, these loud or high-pitched noises increase cortisol in your dog’s body and could negatively impact their behaviour, health, and possibly lifespan.
CAUSES OF NOISE AVERSION
There are several causes of noise aversion and certain breeds are predisposed. According to a 2008 study shared by Dr. Karen Becker, dogs tend to develop noise aversion in one of four ways:
Lack of habituation — The dog encounters a novel, startling sound and fails to learn that it has no consequence or meaning, continuing to show fear instead.
Stress-induced dishabituation — The dog experiences a stressful event and is therefore at a higher level of stress at the same moment of the environmental sound and is unable to cope with the noise as he previously had, resulting in a fear response.
Sensitization — A noise bothers a dog more and more over time, causing them to be more sensitive to it rather than learning to ignore it.
Social transmission — The dog learns to fear a noise from another dog in the household.
I also think that taking puppies/kittens away from their moms before 12 weeks can have an impact as they learn valuable behaviour from their moms.
A full-blown storm phobia may be the result of a combination of barometric pressure changes, static electricity, wind, odours, thunder, lightning, and low-frequency rumbles that precede a storm. However, if your dog does not display any other signs of canine noise aversion or separation anxiety, the static electricity is likely causing them to be anxious.
Storms can also physically hurt dogs because the sound frequencies produced during storms can be painful to your dogs’ ears and the static electricity that accumulates in their fur due to changes in pressure can be unpleasant. So, when dogs are freaking out during stormy weather, they’re not just unsure of what’s happening, but they may be experiencing a painful physical reaction.
Thunderstorms literally charge the air with electricity, making it easier for the static build-up to occur in the coat of your pet. It’s even easier for static to build up in larger dogs and those with double or long coats. If your dog has a static build-up in its coat, he or she might get a mildly uncomfortable shock to their sensitive nose if they touch it against metal and this could lead to a full-on phobia.
Those nasty little shocks might explain why your dog takes off for the corner of the bathroom or another enclosed space in your home when stormy weather is imminent, as these places are grounded and there is less of a threat of static electricity zapping your poor dog.
WAYS TO HELP YOUR PET
Storm phobias tend to get worse over time instead of better and this is why, the earlier you start to address it, the better. There are many things you can do to help your noise-phobic dog. Rather than saying or doing something that might reinforce anxious behaviour, try simply observing your pet during a fearful episode and see what you can do to help calm them.
Creating a safe space for them to retreat to, is one of the first things to do!
Make sure your yard is secure and safe as many pets who try to escape get stuck on palisades or hurt on another fencing. You can contact Pet Safety Solutions for this.
Make sure they are microchipped AND that you registered the microchip on more than one database. Make sure your microchip information is up-to-date as well as your pets having an up-to-date tag on their collar. This is a big challenge when we find pets with out-of-date details.
Consult with a fear-free behaviourist (there is a difference between a trainer and a behaviourist) to help desensitize your pet.
Teach your pet to use a Kong or chew toy so that they can engage in this calming activity during the next thunderstorm occasion.
If you know your pet is prone to extreme stress during this time, then see your veterinarian before the time for some medication. Consult your integrative veterinarian about herbal, homoeopathic, TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) and flower remedies that could help alleviate your dog’s stress. Don’t use human medication! Please note that these remedies/medication has to be used with behavioural therapy!
WHAT TO DO DURING THUNDERSTORMS IF YOU ARE AT HOME
On the day of the expected thunderstorms, look for your animals, especially cats before it starts.
Close doors, windows and curtains so your pet is not startled by sudden flashes or tries to escape when spooked.
If your cat is not used to being indoors, provide extra litterboxes inside.
Create a safe spot for your pet to retreat to when they’re feeling anxious about an approaching storm. It should be indoors, in an interior room of your home, one with no windows, if possible. Place a crate in the space along with bedding, water, treats and a toy. Anything that can help mask the sounds too. Cats also feel secure in and love boxes.
Put on the TV or soft calming music, to mute the thunderstorm bangs.
Distract your pet with treats or play time during the storm. Give them something to chew. Creating an association between play and the cracks of lightning will aid in generalizing a positive emotional state during thunderstorms or fireworks.
Stay home with your pets in these frightening times as you would with frightened children and stay calm as they can feel your anxiety. If your pet is hiding, don’t try to lure them out. This can make them more anxious & stressed.
Try putting gentle, continuous pressure on your pet to calm them. If they’ll allow it, try leaning gently on or against them without petting or stroking. If this is helping, you’ll feel your pet’s muscles begin to relax. If instead, they seems to grow more anxious, this isn’t a technique that will be beneficial for tehm. If your dog seems to respond well to pressure applied to their body, there are wraps available like the Thunder-shirt that many pet owners and veterinarians find extremely helpful. T-touch is a specific massage technique that may also help anxious pets. For some, a weighted blanket or wrapping helps too.
Ear protection for dogs is available, if they are comfortable with it, which can decrease the intensity of the sounds at least.
If your dog is crate trained, they may go there voluntarily to self-soothe, or you can lead the way. A blanket draped over the crate may help them relax. However, if your dog doesn’t normally use a crate, or worse, has a fear of crates due to a past bad experience, this isn’t the time to use one and it should never be forced.
WHEN YOU ARE NOT HOME
There are those days that you might be at work when a thunderstorm starts. There is still no excuse for not providing for your pet in these times. When we make plans, we check the weather in advance and make arrangements accordingly. I will easily cancel plans because I care that much for my fur-family members.
You will need to work with a fear-free behaviourist to address this fearful and anxious behaviour by employing behaviour modification techniques designed to alleviate noise aversion. Find behaviourists here. Use a teaspoon to knock on various surfaces around the house and follow up with a treat. This teaches your dog that startling sounds predict yummy food. Watch this video by best behaviour for more details.
Provide a safe and secure place to rest (quiet room or crate). Leave windows and curtains closed in that room to muffle the sounds. I would rather leave such a dog in the house. You can clean up poop and pee later as their safety should take priority. If you can’t keep them in the house, then use an outside building or build a kennel your pet feels secure in and which is soundproofed as much as possible.
Some recent studies interestingly show a positive effect of daily probiotics on anxiety. Specifically, the bacteria Bifidobacterium longum showed a reduction in overall anxiety and stress in dogs.
Check in on them during your lunchtime. You can even discuss this with your boss.
Provide your pet with food before the thunderstorm as it can help calm them or they might be too stressed to eat later.
Providing comforting items such as a blanket or toy can help to ease their anxiety. If you are not a source of their anxiety, you can leave a shirt or item with your smell on with them.
Place a few drops of the essential oil of lavender on your dog’s collar or bedding before a stressor occurs. Even better, learn more about zoopharmacognosy, which allows your pet to self-select remedies that best soothe her during periods of anxiety. Invest in an Adaptil collar for your dog, which is a pheromone designed to have a calming effect on dogs.
You can set up calming music to put on when you are not there. Nowadays you can access it remotely.
Invest in cameras to check in on them. With some, you can even talk to them and offer treats.
Have a pet sitter, friend or family member check in on those days or consider a daycare option when stormy weather is expected.
Get some enrichment toys and get rid of pent-up energy before you go to work. Yes, you will need to get up earlier, but that is what you do when you truly care.
If your pet is at risk of escaping and for some reason outsmarting you by getting out, consider getting a GPS microchip so if your dog gets out you can track them.
If you find a lost dog, please take them to the SPCA or local shelter. If you can no longer take care of your animals and meet their needs, then surrender them to reputable local shelters including your nearest SPCA and don’t get animals again.
Your pets didn’t get to choose where they live, you took that choice into your hands, so now do what is right for them. Having a pet is a huge responsibility, so to ensure the happiness and well-being of our beloved companion animals, we must always meet all the needs of our pets.
Next week we will look at some health checks you can do at home.
19 Bangladesh nationals are happy after being saved
Voice clip by Brigadier Mohlala
Nelspruit: 27 February 2023 – 19 Bangladesh Nationals were saved from traffickers after a dedicated Ehlanzeni District Intelligence Task Team pounced on a wannabe Human trafficker today, Monday 27 February 2023.
Information was gathered and properly followed by the astute members, which led them to a particular house at Kamagugu outside Nelspruit.
The members found 19 Bangladesh males in a three-bedroomed house. They further found that their cell phones were placed in one plastic bag, which suggested that they had no access to communicate with either their relatives or friends.
As a result, a 52-year-old Bangladesh National, who served as the housekeeper was arrested for human trafficking and he is due to appear in Nelspruit Magistrate’s court soon. The 19 found in the house will be charged for contravention of the immigration act.
Our investigation continues to probe their destination and the kingpins however preliminary investigation suggests that some were en route to Middleburg while others were destined for Johannesburg.
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi has appreciated the good work done by the team.
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.
Calls for calm as a mother (47) and her three children were hacked to death in Piet Retief
Piet Retief – Police are investigating a traumatic experience whereby a mother of three was hacked to death with her pair of twin sons and her daughter in her house at Phola Park, Thandukukhanya in Piet Retief.
The gruesome discovery was made by the police yesterday Friday 24 February 2023 at about 22:25 after the family members laid a complaint that they had made several attempts to get hold of the family members but failed.
Police in Piet Retief immediately responded to the complaint however they found the house locked.
They (the police) had to force their entry into the house and were amazed by the discovery of a lifeless body in the kitchen.
When proceeding with the search, a 47-year-old woman’s body, her 11-year-old son and her 6-year-old daughter were found lying dead in one of the rooms and an axe believed to have been used to eliminate them was also found in the same room. The body found in the kitchen was the twin brother of the 11-year-old boy whose body was found alongside his mother and sister.
Surprisingly their four-roomed house was locked from the outside raising suspicions that the heartless attacker had locked them in, after the gruesome murder.
All victims were certified dead by paramedics on the scene.
It is further alleged that the victims were last seen alive on Tuesday 21 February 2023.
Piet Retief police would like the father of the six-year-old daughter, Thembinkosi Africa Shongwe (55) who can not be located at his known address at Eziphunzini, Thandukukhanya in Piet Retief to come forward as it is believed that he may be of great assistance to the police investigation.
Community members who might know his whereabouts must not hesitate to contact Captain Dumisani Gumbi on 082 493 1962 or call the police Crime Stop number 08600 10111 alternatively on MYSAPSAPP. Police guarantee that all received information will be treated with confidentiality.
In the meantime the Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi calls upon community members not to take the law into their own hands and assist the police in fighting violence against women and children. “Attacking defenceless women and children is regarded as being cowardly to those who suppose to protect them,” said the General.
The Mpumalanga Acting MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison, Mr Speedy Mashilo has called on the Mkhondo community to remain calm and not respond with vigilantism to the murder of four family members whose lifeless bodies were discovered by the police at a house in eThadukukhanya in Mkhondo last night, 24 February 2023.
The Mpumalanga Acting MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison, Mr Speedy Mashilo
MEC Mashilo called on the community to work with the police by providing any leads that may assist in solving this frightening case.
He says communities have been extremely helpful in the past in solving such gruesome cases of murders directed at women and children.
He also decries growing violent murders that have marred the province in recent weeks. He cited the murders of four people in Senotlelo last weekend and the other three other murders in Mkhondo a few weeks ago.
“We must all come together to bring an end to violent crime. Our communities should not be living in fear. That is why we want our police to work with great speed and ensure that those who are responsible are brought to book.”
“Condemnation of these heightened levels of violence alone is not enough, there is an urgent need now more than ever, to identify the root causes of violent crimes so that we all respond more appropriately,” says the MEC.
He is also calling on the judiciary to hand out harsher and lengthier jail sentences to those who are convicted of such atrocious crimes. This, the MEC says, will assist in deterring would-be criminals.
UNDERSTANDING THE NATURAL BEHAVIOURS OF YOUR PETS CAN HELP YOU IMPROVE YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH THEM.
Dogs are social animals and have a wide range of natural behaviours. These behaviours are instinctive and are used to communicate with other dogs and humans. Common natural behaviours in dogs include barking, digging, chasing and chewing. Dogs also display behaviours such as jumping, licking, marking and play-bowing. These behaviours are all natural and help dogs to interact with their environment and with other animals. It is a way to communicate with those who are willing to listen!
What may look like naughty behaviour to you is often just your pet behaving as their species do. It is normal and not naughty. What we expect from them, might be labelled by the uninformed as bad, untrained or unsociable or even aggressive. Dogs will do what dogs do and it is unfair of us to expect them to understand, adapt and conform to our human world, forgetting that they are a different species. There can also be breed-specific traits which are not their fault, like Terriers that dig and will likely always dig!
Do you want to better understand your dog and improve your relationship? Then learn about their behaviour. When you know what is natural behaviour you can easily know which “naughty” behaviour to address. One of the five freedoms of animal welfare includes the freedom to express natural behaviours!
Let’s look at a few normal behaviours and what you can do about them.
IS THIS NORMALBEHAVIOUR?
ZOOMIES
Have you ever seen your cat or dog just suddenly start running around like crazy and in circles as if something is chasing them or as if they lost the plot? The technical name for this behaviour is frenetic random activity periods (FRAPS) but otherwise known as zoomies. Happy animals tend to do this and it is like a burst of energy that they experience. If they are not in danger of injuring themselves, then just sit back and enjoy!
You have likely witnessed a dog chasing their tail, especially puppies. If it happens occasionally, it could just be happiness or play, but if it happens more often or become obsessive then a vet check is in order. Conditions like an ear infection may contribute to this sort of behaviour and animals who suffer from Canine compulsive disorder (CCD) may also do tail chasing.
HEAD TILTING
This is such an adorable behaviour which a fur-kid might do when they want to pick up some sounds better, but also when they are not sure about what you want from them. Some studies show that head tilters are smarter than those who do not perform this behaviour often. I think they know they are cute when they do this too! My first response would be to clearly repeat the information if you did speak to them at that moment. If it happens a lot or you are unsure then you can consider a vet check.
SLOW BLINKING
Have you ever seen your cat blink slowly at you? The main reason scientists have come up with for this odd behaviour is that it appears to be a way the cat is telling you that they love you. You can mimic the behaviour and blink back slowly to them. If you are unsure or there is discharge from the eyes for example, consider a vet check.
POOP EATING
The scientific name for this behaviour is Coprophagia. It is most likely dogs that will indulge in this behaviour and not cats. This is a disgusting, yet natural behaviour. It played a role in how dogs evolved when humans transitioned from hunter-gatherers to agriculture and human settlements arose. Our canine ancestors began to approach these areas because it provided a stable source of food. So, it is kind of in their DNA, but not a behaviour you want to encourage. They will likely not eat poop older than two days.
This behaviour may also be caused by a nutritional need, or gut microbiome imbalance and or can be behavioural (boredom, curiosity, if you punished them and use improper house-training techniques). It can also indicate an underlying medical condition. The faeces are a good source of digestive enzymes and dogs with this deficiency will ingest enzyme-rich poop.
It is better to prevent them from having this ‘delicacy’ by removing the temptation or through behavioural conditioning because poop can contain harmful bacteria and parasites too, which can make them ill. Doing poop patrol can also give you an indication of how their health is. Check out this video about what their poop may mean.
BUM SNIFFING
This is one of the most natural behaviours and is a form of greeting. It can even happen across species like a dog sniffing a cat’s buttock. By doing this they can get information like is it male or female, about their health and if they are friends or foes. If it is not obsessive and doesn’t cause distress for the party being sniffed and won’t escalate into a fight, then you can let them sniff.
GRASS EATING
Both cats and dogs may occasionally eat grass and it might not be something to worry about unless it becomes excessive. Some theories suggest that it happens when they lack fibre in their diet, to balance their microbiome, to help eliminate intestinal worms, some eat grass when they feel nauseous or need a laxative and it is an ancestral behaviour. I don’t believe the pet food industry meets the species-specific requirements for most animals and if they frequently eat grass, maybe consider a vet check and diet change.
Read more about healthy diets here. Two main reasons to stop this behaviour will be when your grass has been treated with pesticides or other chemicals even “natural” products or if the behaviour become excessive.
DIGGING
Dogs dig! Some more than others. Sometimes it is to the detriment of our gardens, but that is not their fault and punishing them for that is cruel, especially if you are not meeting their needs. Digging is normal behaviour and great for a few reasons. Some dogs will do this to get to cooler sand for resting on hot days, some to relieve boredom, to explore their environment, to escape an enclosed area, to hunt ground-dwelling critters or just because it is fun.
Never stop the digging, but rather provide a designated space for them to dig and redirect them to it when they are going for your garden instead of punishing them. This is a fun and easy way to get rid of extra energy and burying treasures (not bones) for them can be a form of mental enrichment. You can also prevent access to unwanted digging areas.
CHEWING
Dogs chew and one of the main reasons is to explore their environment with their mouth and it is a physically and emotionally beneficial activity. It can help clean their teeth, massage gums and give those jaw muscles a workout. If your dog is chewing destructively, it is likely an indication that you are not meeting their needs and that they are stressed or anxious. It can also be an indication of an underlying health problem.
Destructive chewing can be addressed by redirecting them to chewing appropriate objects and making sure they get enough exercise as well as mental stimulation. Make sure what they chew is safe and remember things like raw hides, even if a vet or pet shop sells them, do not mean it is safe for your pets. Also, be careful with choking hazards from chew toys.
Natural Behaviour / Barking – Image via Pexels.com
BARKING
Barking is a very natural way for your dog to communicate and a way to get rid of some build-up energy. There can be many reasons why they bark including greeting humans and other animals, being unsure, as a warning to back off, to alert you, attention seeking, a cry for help or they want to get out. Dogs who bark excessively are an indication that their owners are not meeting their needs.
Excessive barking should be addressed with a qualified and ethical behaviourist and fear-free techniques. Barking should never be stopped completely! Find out why they bark, then manage the environment, get a vet check, do some mental stimulation, exercise and enrichment or consider professional help.
One of the main reasons for surrenders at shelters include behavioural problems, but when that behaviour is evaluated by people who understand animals well, it is actually considered natural behaviour in most cases, especially when their needs were not met.
The behaviour might also not be what it looks like. Before you get frustrated, ask yourself if this is natural behaviour or a behaviour in response to an unmet need. Always look for the underlying reason or trigger before trying to change it and consult with your vet to rule out any underlying medical conditions or a qualified ethical behaviourist to address the specific behaviour. Remember that there is a difference between a trainer and a behaviourist.
Never punish natural behaviour! You can manage it better and redirect, but it is cruel to stop these natural behaviours.
Next week we will look at steps you can take to prevent your noise-phobic pet from escaping and helping them with this anxiety.
The Groundery Connection, a brand-new coffee shop within the reception area at Proconics was recently unveiled. A few dignitaries were invited and explained the idea behind The Groundery Connection.
Nomvuselelo Myende, the Marketing intern at Proconics, explains that everyone from time to time thinks of the following questions: “what can I do to help, What change can I make in my community or work?”
The Groundery Connection is a first-of-its-kind coffee shop and corporate third space co-owned and operated by the two beneficiaries Thuso Mkwanazi and James Du Toit from the Marietjie School for Learners with Special Educational Needs in Secunda, and the De la Bat School for the Deaf in Worcester, respectively.
“I think that I can say in all confidence,” continued Nomvuselelo,” that The Groundery Connection was born from those questions.”
A few dignitaries including the Executive Mayor of Govan Mbeki Municipality, the Honourable councillor Nhlakanipo Zuma, significant Sasol stakeholders, and proud Proconics employees attended the opening The Groundery Connection.
Melvin Jones, CEO at Proconics, explained a schematic that one of the founding members of Proconics drew him during his first days at Proconics.
It read: “Problem plus Coffee meets engineer and out comes the solution and the side effect is sarcasm!”
“I am to blame for the coffee culture at Proconics,” said Melvin, “one of the first things I did as CEO is to buy two filter coffee machines. That started the love for coffee here at Proconics.”
Melvin spoke about staying in South Africa and dealing with its problems.
“I want to challenge everyone here today to forget about the problems that we can’t solve,” said Melvin, “and I want you to lean in and solve some of the problems that are right in front of us.”
“And if you do you will be part of making this country the one we want to live in.”
In our bid to effectively address socio-economic issues, Proconics has built The Groundery Connection. A first-of-its-kind coffee shop and third corporate space in our reception area operated by our two beneficiaries James Du Toit and Thuso Mkwanazi who we identified and vetted in partnership with Marietjie School for LSEN. Both these gentlemen are deaf with basic literacy levels. Over the course of the past year, Proconics has taken measures to train and upskill them and they now co-own The Groundery Connection and work as baristas. Wrote Proconics in a short statement
With this initiative, Proconics hopes to usher in a new era of enacting sustainable change in the communities we work and live in.
Nomvuselelo ushered everyone to the Ribbon for the ribbon-cutting ceremony after which she demonstrated ordering coffee at The Groundery Connection.
The Bulletin would like to take the opportunity to congratulate Proconics on this very welcome and innovative initiative.
