The Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) in partnership with Painted Wolf Wines and Chalmar Beef recently hosted a fundraising dinner at Chaplin’s Grill in Hurlingham.
The purpose of the dinner was to raise funds for the salvation of the African wild dogs through an emergency vaccination programme designed to stem the outbreak of canine distemper virus (CDV). This virus is a contagious disease often carried by domestic dogs and is closely related to measles in humans.
“Wild dogs are the second most endangered carnivore in Africa and have experienced huge decreases in numbers as well as distribution, all directly due to human factors,” explained Belinda Glenn, EWT’s communication and brand manager.
“The dinner offered people an opportunity to give back and help, in conjunction with partners such as SANParks, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, WildlifeACT, and the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries’ State Veterinary Services,” said Glenn.
In an article published by the Rosebank Killarney Gazette on 8 November, EWT to the rescue, EWT said an amount of more than R30 000 would be sufficient to assist with the purchase of the expensive vaccination.
On the night, the generosity of the guests and partners of EWT, saw that target being reached. “About R40 000 was raised for this worthy cause,” said Glenn.
“R300 per person off the cost of a R450 dinner was donated to EWT.”
Additional funds were also raised through a silent auction as guests bid on Painted Wolf Wines hampers, Wild Dog fluffy toys, pewter ornaments and two art prints from Lori Bentley, who is the designer of the Painted Wolf Wines label.
Dr Kelly Marnewick, EWT’s carnivore conservation manager said the event was a huge success and she extended her gratitude to all their partners, Chalmar Beef who donated the meat for the event, as well as Painted Wolf Wines who supplied all the wines for the evening.
“We’d like to thank Painted Wolf Wines and Chaplin’s Grill for a fantastic initiative and very enjoyable evening. Conservation requires a team effort and they’re true team players.”
