TAG calms animals during fireworks

The entire staff complement and volunteers at The Animal Guardians (TAG) hunkered down at its Cloverdene Road kennels to usher in a furry happy New Year.

Ensuring that the animals in their care enjoyed a scrumptious festive meal, followed by walks and playtime, Annie Jungmann and Katie O’Neill’s team made themselves comfortable in the kennels to comfort their residents in anticipation of the eruption of deafening fireworks.

“As expected, the surrounding community set off thunderous ‘bombs,’ but, thankfully, our animals were comfortable and remained calm until the explosions ended,” said Jungmann.

“However, we were inundated with calls about bewildered pets running through the streets or going missing because of the celebrations.”

Jungmann said two cats and five dogs came into TAG’s care between December 31 and January 1.

“Two dogs sustained injuries,” she said.

“Unfortunately, one darted in front of an oncoming vehicle, while another sustained bite wounds when it ran into a neighbouring property. It was deemed necessary to have them humanely euthanised.”

Fortunately, owners claimed three of the animals, with the remaining two still in the shelter’s care.

“Our facility is at full capacity, but we are overjoyed that many residents have opened their hearts and homes to adopt some of our beautiful friends,” she said.

The team thanked the community and its supporters for contributions towards its Christmas wish list.

“We were blessed beyond measure with splash pools, pond pumps, kitty toys and loads of food,” she said.

“Our Christmas cake raffle, which saw Karin Bottyn win a delicious fruit cake created by Champa Magan of the Cake Decorators Network, raised R4 000 for the ongoing care of our animals and those who form part of our outreach projects.”

For more information about the facility, call Jungmann on 076 330 5736 or visit them on 86 Cloverdene Road, Rynfield AH.

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