Meeting addresses issues
WELTEVREDEN PARK – Annual Devon Valley meeting held to hear concerns of residents.
The Devon Valley Resident’s Association had their annual general meeting at Rumours Lounge on 26 September.
The venue was packed with residents who were eager to discuss pressing issues in their area.
The major issue that was brought up was about a pack of five stray dogs living in the greenbelt area. Residents who live around the greenbelt said that they saw four pit bull terriers and one chow, but this, however, was not confirmed. Other residents also mentioned that they spotted three puppies with the pack.
Mike Allen, inspector from Roodepoort SPCA addressed the meeting and mentioned that the pack has been there for a few months and that they are becoming a big problem. Allen said the pack has already killed one dog and a couple of cats.
He added that when they visited the area a while ago, the dogs wanted to attack them, meaning that they are very aggressive. “A crate can be used, but the problem is that the dogs do not want to go inside.”
Allen also advised people not to shoot at the dogs as it may be dangerous to children in the area. He added that a drone should be used to determine where the dogs sleep and maybe catch them this way.
A concerned resident asked what the SPCA would do with the animals if they catch them. According to Allen, an animal behaviourist will be called to assess the animals to establish if they can reintegrate the animals back into a family home.
Apart from the issue of the stray dogs, Ward 126 councillor, David Brand also attended the meeting to introduce himself to the residents. Devon Valley RA chairperson, Fred Otto gave a rundown of crime in the area and warned people to be on the lookout for a gold BMW and a white Polo with a black bonnet. The vehicles are considered to be suspicious in the area.
Residents of the Devon Valley area are urged to join their residents’ association.
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