Mutts book raises money for Sandton SPCA and Claw

A new book called Mutts, created by photographer Emma O’ Brien, aims to raise money for two animal shelters and highlight the special qualities of mixed-breed dogs.

The book, which was launched in Parktown North on 19 November, was crowd-funded by animal lovers and the proceeds will be donated to the Sandton the SPCA and Community Led Animal Welfare (Claw).

The goal was to raise R155 000, however, donations exceeded their goal and a little over R166 000 was raised to fund the printing of the book.

Claw offers veterinary services to animals in Durban Deep in Roodepoort as well as animal care education in the township area.

The Sandton SPCA, which covers a massive area includes Dunkeld, Houghton, Rosebank and Killarney among others.

At the launch, O’Brien told Rosebank Killarney Gazette that working on the book had been a stressful process. “I think the crowdfunding, once it got going, had a lot of momentum but the proofing of the book and making sure it was perfect was a long process.”

Mixed-breed dogs are often overlooked by potential adoptees in favour of purebred or pedigree dogs and O’Brien hopes that the book will highlight the beauty of mixed breeds.

Many of the animals photographed in the book suffered abuse, mistreatment and disease prior to being adopted. “I think it’s the stories of resilience of these dogs that make them so special.”

O’Brien added that when she finally saw the printed book for the first time, it was a bit anticlimactic after all the hard work involved.

It was initially hoped that R30 000 could be raised for each organisation, however, O’Brien now hopes it will be R60 000 for each organisation. “I’d like for the money to go one particular project. So for the Sandton SPCA, we’re looking at maybe sponsoring the costs of an inspector for two years; and for Claw, there could maybe be a big sterilisation drive.

“I think it’s important that it’s a meaningful amount so that we could show people who have bought the book that they are a part of this.”

O’Brien had also asked that those attending the book launch bring a bag of dog or cat food, in lieu of an entrance fee. The food was then donated to Claw who are in desperate need of more animal food.

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