FOLLOWING reports that resources for Metro Police dogs were low, residents, NPOs and businesses banded together to collect donations for the unit in Montclair.
When Farrah Maharaj, founder of Feeding the Furballs, a registered NPO heard of the plight of the police dogs, she quickly set about searching for willing donors
“We had helped the Shongweni K9 unit previously and someone had contacted me to see if I would be willing to assist. I put out a plea and many people came to help. We had food, leashes, grooming items and more to hand over,” said Maharaj.
At the appointed time, the group arrived at the dog unit, located on the corner of Kenyon Howden and South Coast Roads, where they were summarily told to leave. Cherece Du Plessis, who had gone with to help with the handover, said she was shocked.
“We were told they could not accept anything from us. We asked if we could at least give them shampoo, or something to help with the dogs, but we were told to leave,” said Du Plessis.
Maharaj said she was surprised because she had heard there was a desperate need for supplies and they had made an appointment to deliver them to the dog unit.
“We asked to the see the dogs but were told we could not come in and then we were told to pack and leave immediately. It was disheartening and now we have to contact all the companies and see if they are willing to redistribute their donations elsewhere,” she said.
Following an outcry on social media, the municipality released a statement on the issue, stating that there is no shortage of dog food and other essential grooming and handling items for the dogs.
“A routine stock verification recently conducted indicates there is adequate supply of dog food. Further, items such as shampoo, check chains, leashes, tackle suits, dog brushes and tracking leads are in stock.
Metro Police cannot accept donations because there is sufficient stock in place therefore it is not necessary to accept donations from the public. Importantly, all dogs in the Metro Police dog unit are vaccinated and their medical records are filed accordingly. Our dogs are attended to by qualified and experienced veterinary physicians.
The care of Metro Police dogs is of utmost importance to council as they are an integral part of the Metro Police family and every effort is being made to ensure that their care is of an acceptable standard,” said communications head, Tozi Mthethwa in the statement.
Read more here:
SPCA, Metro Police refute dogs’ health in jeopardy
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