Young entrepreneurs help abused dog
Two siblings have started an entrepreneurial trend at the St Dunstan’s Aftercare and Homework Facility, after they raised money for various animal charities last year through the sale of seeds.
![](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/26/2016/08/Gracie_61929.jpg)
This year, Troy (8) and his brother Tanner (6) Curtis used their canny business skills to benefit a dog, Gracie. The money will go towards the canine’s veterinarian bill.
One of the directors at the Benoni Animal Rescue Centre (Barc), Charmaine Woest, said the dog was dropped off at the Rynfield Veterinarian Hospital a few weeks ago with signs of “absolute abuse”.
Gracie had several lacerations on her neck and needed urgent medical care.
The St Dunstan’s Preparatory School pupils’ mother, Kerry, said she saw a post on the Barc Facebook page, of a dog that had been dropped off at the Rynfield Veterinarian Hospital, with lacerations on its neck.
The youngsters were eager to assist, seeking a new idea for their next project.
The pair sold Angry Bird tokens (R5), Angry Birds collectors’ items (R20) and animal cards (R2) to their peers at the aftercare.
“I said it was too expensive,” said Kerry.
But this did not deter the boys, with them having sold about R300 in merchandise.
Their mother doubled the amount, and friends also made contributions, bringing the total to R1 075.
This money was donated to Barc for Gracie’s bills.
“I love animals, a billion, trillion times,” Tanner said.
Troy said his brother would like to be an inventor when he grows up.
“Maybe if he is an inventor, he can sell things to help dogs or a collar that makes them speak,” Troy explained.
Kerry is proud of her boys.
“People say it is nice to teach your children compassion, but I do not think it’s something you can teach, it is part of their character.”
The aftercare allows its children to sell items that will be used to benefit charities.
Gracie is currently is Charmaine’s care where she is being rehabilitated, as she is fearful of humans.
“The compassion that they (the brothers) have for animals is amazing,” said Charmaine.
“I take my hat off to their parents.”
Also read:
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