FreeMe on the front of animal rescue

The centre treats over 10 000 cases annually, with 420 animal species admitted in the 14 years the centre has been open.

According to Nicci Wright, senior animal manager, they treat cases across the country, and even assist with cases across borders.

Operating with a small staff, they have successfully treated red data species and the centre is on the forefront of animal welfare.

FreeMe receives countless animals taken in as pets, where the pet/owner relationship sours once the animals reach sexual maturity.

“People love keeping monkeys and meerkats, but they’re eventually mistreated by owners.”
Wright said these types of animals are often kept in solitude until they’re brought in for rehabilitation. Because they are social animals they often undergo huge trauma, and need to regain their social skills.

Animals such as meerkats need to be rehabilitated in herds before being released back into the wild, but due to a lack of socialisation some are often picked on by new herd formations.

The exotic pet trade has been a thorn in FreeMe’s side. Venomous snakes are a big concern, as staff members going to capture the reptiles seldom know if anti-venom is available to them.

Wright also spoke out on the muti-trade. According to her, Johannesburg’s inner city has dark secrets hiding in markets, and she often travels there with authorities to confiscate animals – while they’re still alive.

Animals exploited in the muti-trade are often hard to recover, due to cultural rights that don’t protect animals.
Animals in demand for the muti-trade are often snared in areas such as Sun Valley.

“Unfortunately many animals caught in snares are often already dead, or need to be euthanised due to their condition,” Wright said.

According to general manager John Lishman, awareness campaigns and partnerships with corporate sponsors ensure the centre’s doors stay open, as well as a good relationship with volunteers.

Details: 011-807-6993