Judi bids Animal Anti-Cruelty League a fond farewell
After years of dedicated service, Judi Gibson will soon retire as the general manager of the Animal Anti-Cruelty League.
THE Animal Anti-Cruelty League (AACL) will say its final goodbyes to their dedicated general manager and chief inspector, Judi Gibson, on 8 March as she plans to retire. Judi, who has headed the charity for nine years, is well known for her love of animals and commitment to animal welfare.
Under her watchful eye, the charity moved from Durban North to its premises in Hammarsdale, and so the dramatic transformation of a once dilapidated property began.
The farm is now a haven for the many animals in the charity’s care. The former stables surround the dog runs, a cat haven has been built, and food preparation, animal grooming and laundry facilities were installed.
Knowing that funding for animal welfare would become increasingly difficult to obtain, Judi strived to make the charity as self-sustainable as possible.
To this end, a popular café and charity shop were launched, and dog and cat boarding facilities were built.
“These kennels are the equivalent of five-star animal hotels and have rave reviews from many happy pet owners,” said a proud Judi.
All of this was completed while she pressed ahead with her passion for preventing unnecessary suffering through sterilisation initiatives.
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Since 2009, about 20 000 dogs and cats have been sterilised in previously disadvantaged communities.
The last task she set herself was to find the perfect person to lead her beloved charity in the coming years. She found that person in Dave Rogers, who has a background in consultancy, business administration and education
On her decision to retire, Judi said, “It was a very hard decision to make, but the time is right. The charity is in a good place and we are fortunate to have staff and volunteers who are utterly committed to animal welfare. Dave has already started to work with me. Not only is he very capable, his love of animals is evident in everything he does.”
On Saturday, 2 March, the AACL will celebrate its 60th anniversary of caring for animals in the greater Durban area with a dog walk fund-raiser.
“It is an opportunity for people to support animal welfare and have loads of fun too,” said Judi.
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