To ensure children see dogs as friends and prevent cruelty, dog trainers from the Paw Buddies Dog School in Geluksdal educated children about dog behaviour.
Children were given a chance to play with the dogs and were shown that dogs can be their friends if they treat them well and protect them.
Speaking on behalf of the dog school, Thulani Manana says the school aims to ensure children between the ages of four and 17 understand the importance of having a dog at home.
He says they also want to dispel the myths about pit bulls.
Manana explains that there are people who believe these dogs do not feel pain and that is why they are used for dog-fighting in many townships.
He says the school also plans to visit primary and secondary schools in Kwatsaduza to educate learners about dog training, behaviour and encouraging them to protect their dogs.
Manana advised parents to let their children learn more about dogs.
Six-year-old Sihle Mkhwanazi says the training helped him overcome his fear of dogs.
“Now I know that when treated with love and respect, dogs can be friendly,” he says.
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