LOCAL non-profit animal educational programme, Edu-Paw which works with Amanzimtoti SPCA, has been chosen as one of the beneficiaries of 50Fifty Sterilisations, a project headed by animal activist Bruce Wilson.
As Bruce celebrates his 50th birthday this October, he has asked all friends, family and animal lovers to donate towards the sterilisation of some 50 dogs.
As a founding member of the Sanctuary Project, Bruce has devoted the last decade of his life to animal rescue. As the cause has become his passion and life’s purpose, Bruce’s home has become a sanctuary for injured birds and wildlife, homeless parrots and he regularly rescues stray dogs.
The Hillcrest resident chose to direct the kind gifts he would receive for his milestone birthday to the animals which are in desperate need of sterilisation.
Sanctuary Project partnered with a selection of KZN-based rescue organisations. Some R29,000 has been raised so far but R40,000 is the goal. Donations will be accepted until the end of October.
“I’m turning 50 and I want to make this birthday count,” explained Bruce. “Not a day goes by without multiple dogs and puppies needing to be rescued from terrible conditions or desperately looking for homes. Some die from disease or have to be euthanased before ever getting a second chance.
In an attempt to tackle the problem at the source, this 50/50 campaign aims to sterilise at least 50 dogs – one dog for each year of my life. After almost 10 years of animal rescue work, the problem is only getting worse. The 50/50 campaign is only a drop in the ocean, but it is my drop. Please support me by making a donation. Each rand donated goes directly to the costs of sterilisation.”
The #50Sterilisationsfor50Years has partnered with the following organisations:
- SCARR Animal Rehab which rehabilitates traumatised, neglected and abused dogs. They run a small animal care programme in KwaNdengezi and sponsor the animals at The Ark in Peacevale.
- KZN Valley Dogs which runs a community outreach programme in the Inanda Valley that includes feeding, vet care and sterilisation of animals in their target area.
- Edu-Paw which works in partnership with the Amanzimtoti SPCA, teaching children basic canine care and instilling a love and compassion through education and example. Dogs are fed, dewormed and children provided with age-appropriate isiZulu educational flyers, collars and leads.
- Lost Souls Animal Rescue which rescues and rehomes stray animals and other animals in need.
- Paw Prints Rescue and Rehoming rescues, fosters and rehomes dogs and puppies in need.
Bruce and his wife Chantelle visited Amanzimtoti SPCA on Saturday, 29 September where they took part in and learned all about Edu-Paw.
“Edu-Paw is a desperately needed initiative which provides the kind of education not normally available as there are some extremely dedicated volunteers who help bridge the language gap. It was amazing to see the look of delight on one of the children, Thalente’s face when he received his new lead and collar for Black. It is a great feeling knowing that Thalente has now agreed to have his dog sterilised. Cathy and her team have been trying to convince him for a while. Edu-Paw definitely would benefit from more resources into the future,” said Bruce.
Chantelle was completely blown away by the youngest volunteer, Junior Ngubane.
“Junior is only in grade 6, but is an ardent supporter of Edu-Paw and very eloquently explained to me why sterilisation was important. He also explained some of the correct behaviours around your dog, such as not tying them up. Precious Shezi was also a breath of fresh air. Her passion and enthusiasm were contagious. The highlight was the full-time employment of two volunteers by Amazimtoti SPCA. This is truly a reflection of all they have learnt while volunteering for Edu-Paw,” she said.
#50Sterilisationsfor50Years has grown a following on social media platforms. Play your part and make a difference in the lives of animals, visit https://www.backabuddy.co.za/50-sterilizations-for-50-years to make your donation. Visit the Facebook Event Link: https://www.facebook.com/events/2121835048138919/?ti=as for more information on the campaign.
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