The Boksburg SPCA recently welcomed Jabu Manchidi as a trainee inspector. Boksburg Advertiser caught up with
Manchidi to find out more about him and his love for animals.
What inspired you to become an animal inspector, and what drew you to the SPCA specifically?
Since childhood I’ve always had some type of animal around me, be it herding cows while I was in the rural areas or with my first pet dog, called Danger. Later in life, I met my wife who adores animals and has always had pets since I’ve known her. About two years ago we adopted Jesse from the Boksburg SPCA (our cross-Chow/Husky) and have been taking our three cats to be vaccinated at the SPCA. When the SPCA manager approached me, I knew this was where I wanted to be.
Elaborate on your previous experience in animal welfare.
Besides caring for our pets I honestly do not have previous professional experience within the field itself. Growing up and living in some areas where some people don’t care for their pets inspires me to help make a difference for other pet owners to also do better.
What are some of the key responsibilities you will have in your role as an inspector?
SPCA inspectors need to ensure that pets are safe within their home environment and that owners don’t abuse or neglect their animals.
How do you handle difficult or dangerous situations when responding to reports of animal cruelty or neglect?
I haven’t come across the situation on my own yet, however, I have been shadowing our inspectors to see and learn how to handle difficult or dangerous situations.
Can you share a memorable case you’ve worked on in the past, and what the outcome was?
There was a cruelty case where 10 greyhounds were not taken care of by their owner. After the owner was given several warnings, the Boksburg SPCA obtained a seizure warrant to have them removed. The dogs are doing so well now and although it was heart-breaking to see how they were treated, it’s very rewarding to see how they are now thriving.
What challenges do you foresee in your new position, and how do you plan to address them?
The biggest challenge will be dealing with the massive influx of unwanted animals the SPCA takes in every week. No one knows the burden SPCA staff carry on their shoulders until they’ve worked or volunteered at an SPCA.
What role does education play in your work, both for the public and for potential offenders?
We need to educate the public on how to take care of their animals. As a trainee inspector, I will be focusing on the laws that protect animals in our country and I will be assisting people with their pets in underprivileged areas.
How can the community support the SPCA and your work?
Donations are always appreciated as the SPCA is a non-profit organisation and depends on donations to keep its doors open.
What message do you hope to convey to the public about the importance of animal welfare?
Vaccinate and sterilise your pets, and make sure they always have clean drinking water, food and shelter. Animals are a privilege to own but also a responsibility.
What would you like to achieve in the future?
Becoming a senior inspector.
An interesting fact about yourself?
I’m a multi-skilled handyman.
