Footprints Magazine

Cape of Good Hope

We speak for, protect and care for animals

ISSUE 1, 2012

Pet registration:

New animal By-Law 2011 Wiggle Waggle breaks all records Pack leadership: Who’s the boss

SA Paralympian HCU Ambassador

Cape of Good Hope

Letter from THE EDITOR

ISSUE 1, 2012 EDITORIAL SARAH SCARTH, LAMEES MARTIN AND KELLY O’BRIEN PO Box 3, Plumstead, Cape Town, 7801, Tel: 021 700 4141 Fax: 021 705 2127 Email: comms@spca-ct.co.za Website: http://www.spca-ct.co.za DESIGN JOAN SUTTON Mobile: 084 562 3425 Email: joansutn@mweb.co.za COVER PHOTOGRAPH Source - Cape Argus, photographer Leon Lestrade photographed SA equestrian Olympian and new SPCA Horse Care Unit Ambassador, Philippa Johnson at the SPCA PRINTING SPONSORED BY FORMESET Tel: 021 507 9000 PAPER SPONSORED BY NOR PAPER Tel: 021 511 3810

Dear Friends After a busy start to 2012 we are pleased to bring you a jam-packed issue of Footprints, full of interesting and informative articles on the incredible work carried out by the dedicated men and women at the Cape of Good Hope (CoGH) SPCA. Thanks to your support we’ve been able to ensure that our services to prevent animal cruelty and rescue sick, injured and abandoned animals, continued uninterrupted throughout the festive season and into 2012.

As part of our commitment to continually look for ways to communicate with you in the most cost-effective manner, we are going to be introducing some changes to Footprints this year. With postal costs rocketing we’ll be replacing two issues of Footprints with a shorter

IN MEMORY OF....

ASTRID AUSTERFIELD: DEDICATED TO GINZA AND PETRA SANTA MOROM AND JAMES ALLEN: IN LOVING MEMORY OF APPEL, PIKKIE, TOFFEL & PATCHES PHYLLIS CLASSE: IN MEMORY OF NEVILLE AND CHRISTOPHER LIZ WILLIAMSON: IN MEMORY OF OUR FRIENDS, GORDON, SCOTTIE AND FLUFFY SHAUGHN PREISS: IN LOVING MEMORY OF MEGAN, O.J AND MAX

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Report Animal Cruelty: Tel: 021 700 4158/9 A/H Emergency: 083 326 1604 www.spca-ct.co.za

hopefully give you a better understanding of how to become the pack leader in your home (page 19) and on page 10 we explore territorial cat behaviour.

Don’t skip our feature article on para-equestrian Olympic double-gold medallist, Philippa Johnson, who is our new Horse Care Unit Ambassador.

Philippa kept our Bequest Society members and guests enthralled at the Christmas lunch with her true grit story of tragedy to Olympic triumph and we’re pleased to reproduce it here in Footprints for you to enjoy.

There’s plenty more in the magazine that we’re sure you’ll enjoy and we look forward to bringing you Pawprints and Footprints in the coming months.

Yours for the animals Sarah

CONTENTS

Footprints is published by the Cape of Good Hope SPCA, and all profits are used to further the work of this organisation. The opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect those of editors or the management of the Cape of Good Hope SPCA. While every effort is made to ensure editorial and factual accuracy, no responsibility is accepted for any errors.

BANK DETAILS: Cape of Good Hope SPCA Standard Bank Account: 0718 32858 Branch: 051001 Ref: Footprints / your name

“Pawprints” newsletter. Both will tell you about our work, the impact we achieve and alert you to upcoming events - just one will be a bit longer and have space for more general interest articles on pet care and training.

In this issue we start (page 4 and 5) with reports from our Inspectorate team on some of the court cases we have fought and won against animal abusers. The wheels of justice might turn slowly but we have persevered and sought justice for the animals.

There are also details on the new City of Cape Town Animal By-Laws, which requires property owners to register each dog and cat living on their property. We’ve tried to explain what you will need to do and how we can help to make the process easier.

Our two pet care features will

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12 Contents and letter from the Editor Fight against cruelty SPCA helps pet owners understand Animal By-Law pet registration process and getting to know your Inspectorate SPCA Heroes - Generous giving; SPCA coin collection tins raise a whopping R364 000 during the last financial year; how your generosity helps the SPCA For your Diary - SPCA Mutt and Meow online competition

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10 11 12 14

Shop with us - Best buys and tips for you and your furry friends from the SPCA Vet Shop team Companion Animals Feline behaviour - Territorial

by Nature Education update - SPCA educates learners accused of animal cruelty Social Spread - Christmas Bequest Society Luncheon dazzles and delights Feature - Introducing SA Paralympian Philippa Johnson - new SPCA Horse Care Unit Ambassador

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18 19 20 21 22

SPCA Events - Popular SPCA Royal Canin Wiggle Waggle Walkathon attracts thousands SPCA Hospital - Committed support from ACSA leads to tangible results Feature - Who’s the Boss?

Learn about pack leadership Horse Show - Annual Horse show benefits SPCA Horse Care Unit Wildlife Unit Update Wildlife Encounters Happy Tails

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Fight against cruelty

Know your SPCA Inspectorate Everyday SPCA Inspectors are on the frontline in our fight against animal cruelty. In addition to speaking to hundreds of animal owners on responsible animal care during their daily work, their initiatives include combating cruelty through educational talks in schools and at community gatherings; increasing the number of proactive outreaches in communities and increasing SPCA visibility in informal settlements around Cape Town.

The CoGH SPCA is the only animal welfare organisation that offers a 24-hour Inspectorate service and although we have specialised inspectors in the Domestic, Wildlife, Horse Care, Farm Animal and Feral Cat units, all operate together as one Inspectorate unit.

To help give you a better understanding of what we do and how we can help, here are answers to some frequently asked questions:Q1: How do I report animal cruelty?

Call the CoGH SPCA’s Inspectorate on 021 700 4158/59 during office hours or after hours and on weekends to 083 326 1604.

Q2: What should I do if I find a stray dog?

Before trying to catch the dog, consider how it might react. Chasing the dog to catch it could lead to it running into a road and being hit by a car. Rather attempt to gently coax the animal towards you by speaking calmly and perhaps entice the dog with food. Alternatively try and herd the dog away from the road and into an area where it can be confined, until the SPCA or Law Enforcement can send help.

If the animal is injured, take it to the SPCA in Grassy Park, local animal welfare organisation or veterinarian.

Alternatively contact the Metro Law Enforcement department on

021 596 1999 who are responsible for the collection of stray animals or contact the SPCA and we will try to assist.

Please remember that whilst the CoGH SPCA will endeavour to respond to requests to pick up stray dogs, given the magnitude of this problem we are forced to refer these first to Metro Law Enforcement who are primarily responsible for the collection of stray animals in the City of Cape Town.

Q3: Are owned animals allowed to roam the streets?

According to the City of Cape Town Animal By-Law, no dog is allowed in a public area unless under the direct control of its owner (i.e. on a lead).

This is because some dogs have not been socialised and hence present a potential bite risk to other dogs and even humans. You can report roaming dogs to Law Enforcement on 021 596 1999.

Members of the public who fall victim to dog attacks can take action under the Animal Matters Amendment Act no 42 of 1993 by immediately reporting the incident to the local police station and also report it to the City’s Law Enforcement to take action under the Animal By-Law. Q4: What do I do if I find an animal locked in a car?

FAREWELL to an animal defender Barbara McCluckie, who was a loyal and dedicated Senior Inspector at the Cape of Good Hope SPCA for 11 years passed away on the 31 October 2011.

Starting as an administration clerk in the SPCA Inspectorate in June 2001, Barbara qualified as an Inspector in 2004 later going on to became a Senior Inspector in 4

October 2007.

She was diagnosed with cancer in 2011 and passed away peacefully at Groote Schuur hospital surrounded by friends.

“She was a woman who dedicated her life to helping animals,” said CoGH SPCA Allan Perrins, who called her loss “devastating.”

COURT UPDATE The CoGH SPCA recently claimed victory in court for two successful convictions under the Animals Protection Act (No 71 of 1962).

Whilst the wheels of justice turn very slowly and can take many months, sometimes years, for a case to be finalised, the CoGH SPCA is committed to following through with prosecutions in the battle against animal cruelty.

Guilty of cruelty to dog

Immediately try to find and alert the owner, failing which contact shopping centre management, security personnel or report it, quoting the car registration, to the local police or the SPCA. It is an offence under the Animals Protection Act (No 71 of 1962) to confine any animal unnecessarily in such a manner that causes that animal suffering, or in any place which affords inadequate space, ventilation and protection or shelter from the elements.

Q5: Does the SPCA collect sick or injured owned animals?

The CoGH SPCA does not have an ambulance service for owned animals due to limited resources; however we do collect stray injured animals. Pet owners are advised to take their sick or injured animals to their nearest vet, or if they qualify for subsidised treatment, to the SPCA or nearest animal welfare organisation.

Q8: How long does it take for the CoGH SPCA to respond to a complaint?

We endeavour to respond to all reports within 24 hours and prioritise emergency cases, such as animals involved in motor vehicle accidents.

The CoGH SPCA Inspectorate team of 19 covers a vast area - around 11 000km2 - and deals with a heavy case load - an average of 100 calls are received each day. Due to the high call volumes experienced by the Inspectorate control room, we appeal to members of the public to submit any reports of animal cruelty via email to inspectorate@spca-ct.co.za.

On 8 December 2011 Patricia Nicholas, a 40 year-old mother of three from Silversands was found guilty on three charges of animal cruelty in the Blue Downs Magistrate court. She was fined R500 or three months imprisonment, suspended for five years on each count and denied ownership of any animal for the next five years.

Charges of animal cruelty were brought against Mrs Nicholas after the CoGH SPCA found her dog with severe injuries to its neck, after the accused had kept it permanently chained to a pole for so long, that the chain had cut into skin and become embedded in the flesh around the neck.

Guilty of obstruction of justice On 18 January 2012, 48 year-old Wendy Nziweni from Kuilsriver was found guilty in the Kuilsriver Magistrates Court for obstructing an SPCA official from carrying out his duties under the Animals Protection Act. She was fined R2000 or eight months imprisonment, of which R1000 or four months was suspended for five years.

Charges of obstruction of justice were brought against Mrs Nziweni after she refused to divulge to an SPCA Inspector, the whereabouts of three Greyhounds, two with a severe case of mange and one with a prolapsed vagina, all three needing urgent veterinary treatment.

SPCA helps pet owners understand animal By-Laws and

PET REGISTRATION PROCESS In response to the numerous phone calls and emails received by the Cape of Good Hope (CoGH) SPCA from members of the public requesting clarification on the new Animal By-Laws, the society is going out of its way to help pet owners better understand the City of Cape Town Animal By-Laws and facilitate the registration of their dogs and cats.

City of Cape Town Law Enforcement officials have announced that from 1 March 2012, for six months, a public awareness campaign will be rolled out to make the public aware of the new animal By-Laws and the registration requirements.

Issues most concerning pet owners are the maximum number of cats and dogs allowed per dwelling; how to go about registering their pets; and what they should do if they have more than the specified number allowed.

Says CEO Allan Perrins: “Dogs and cats are for most pet owners, muchloved and adored members of their family, so it’s not surprising that they are anxious to understand the new Animal By-Laws and how to comply with them.”

The Animal By-Law states that the owner of a property where one or more dogs and/or cats are kept is required to register their pets and if

necessary apply for a permit to keep more than the prescribed number allowed per dwelling. Each permit application will be reviewed by the area sub-council and if the permit is approved, will apply for the life of the animal.

These restrictions do not apply to pet shops; facilities where guide-dogs are kept and trained; veterinary clinics; police and defence force dog units; animal pounds and those permitted to keep more than the specified number of animals.

Perrins says that the CoGH SPCA is concerned about how Law Enforcement will deal with responsible pet owners who have more than the maximum number of cats and/or dogs allowed.

“Whilst we understand the need to limit the number of pets per household for animal and human health and welfare reasons, in reality there

SPCA BLAMES OWNER for Rottweiler’s death

CEO Allan Perrins said that whilst he acknowledged Mr Lech had asked for forgiveness from the child and her family, he was distressed that ‘D’ was paying the ultimate price for his irresponsible behaviour. “In my opinion there is no such thing as a ‘dangerous dog’ but rather there are dangerous owners”, he said.

“Mr Lech admitted to us that ‘D’

Photo: The Daily Voice

The CoGH SPCA has blamed James Lech, the self-proclaimed animal behaviourist and dog shaman, for the death of the Rottweiler ‘D’, which attacked a toddler on Clifton 1st beach last month. The dog was humanely euthanased by a private veterinarian on 1 February 2012.

are going to be cases where responsible pet owners have more than the specified maximum number of animals allowed under the new ByLaws. We just hope that where the owner has the space and resources to properly care for their pets and has shown themselves to be a caring and responsible pet owner, that Law Enforcement will show leniency and allow them to keep their animals until they naturally pass on. We would not support a solution which entailed forced removal,” said Perrins.

Pet registration forms are available from the City of Cape Town website: http://www.capetown.gov.za/en/Camp AndProg/Pages/default.aspx; from all

Law Enforcement Offices and libraries.

In addition the Cape of Good Hope SPCA in Grassy Park and their SPCA Vet Shop in Plumstead (6 Gabriel Road) will also have copies of forms.

Pet owners who visit the SPCA and complete the forms can immediately hand them back to the SPCA, who will take responsibility for submitting them to Law Enforcement on behalf of the pet owner.

“We know that for some the task of completing and submitting the registration forms by fax or email is going to be difficult, so we’re happy to help make the process a bit easier,” said Perrins.

The By-Law states that the maximum number of dogs and cats allowed per property is as follows:Dogs

Cats

Dwelling Unit (i.e. single family unit i.e. townhouse; flat)

Property type

2

4

Dwelling House (single family unit with not more than two buildings)

3

4

Large dwelling House (house on erf of more than 600 m²

4

4

Agricultural property

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6

Any other property

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4

was the same Rottweiler that attacked a young girl in Hyde Park shopping centre in July last year, yet shockingly he still took the dog, which he clearly was not able to control, into a public space without any consideration for anyone else’s well-being and this has cost the dog its life”, said Mr Perrins.

The CoGH SPCA has had concerns about Mr Lech for sometime but hasn’t had sufficient evidence to take action against him under the Animals’ Protection Act (APA). “Our most serious concern now is that there is nothing stopping Mr Lech from getting another dog because only a court can deny him ownership under the APA”, he said.

Mr Perrins warned Capetonians to carefully check the credentials of anyone claiming to be an animal behaviour specialist. “There are some very experienced and well-respected animal behaviourists out there, but unfortunately there are also those

who use terms such as ‘wrangler’, ‘shaman’ and ‘whisperer’ without specific reference to any qualification, other than a selfproclaimed ability. This leaves those who are desperately looking for someone to help them with a problem animal in a vulnerable position and at the mercy of those who act as experts in this area”.

He recommended anyone looking for assistance from an animal behaviourist to contact The South African Board for Companion Animal Professionals (SABCAP) on 082 411 4156 or visit www.sabcap.org.za, which although not a governing body, does require adherence to an ethical code for members and requires a professional qualification. James Lech is not a member of SABCAP. The SPCA also refuted claims made on James Lech’s website that he was a guest speaker at an SPCA fundraising function.

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SPCA HEROES Special thanks to all those anonymous donors who collectively donated R51 115.74 in support of the Cape of Good Hope SPCA last year. We’d love to know who you are so we can thank you in person, so please contact Adri Truter on 021 700 4168 or email dbadmin@spca-ct.co.za.

Incredible Connection - In December Incredible Connection, Tokai donated an HP Pavilion DV6 laptop to the value of R6 000 in response to an SPCA appeal. The CoGH SPCA Inspectorate was the grateful recipient of the laptop, which will be used by Inspectorate Manager Moyo Ndukwana, whose work requires him to have access to a computer remotely.

Christmas giving - Matthew Goodall, musician Farryl Purkiss and a group of friends hosted a mini music festival in Constantia to raise funds for the CoGH SPCA. In December Matthew handed over a donation of R2 000 to the SPCA Vet Shop in Plumstead and requested that the money be used to purchase pet food and treats. Their fundraising event helped bring lots of Christmas cheer to the many animals at the SPCA, and we appreciate their support of the SPCA Vet Shop, where all profits benefit the CoGH SPCA. Magic music - The sale of tickets to the Cape Town Folk and Acoustic Festival in December raised R2 490 for the CoGH SPCA. Grateful thanks to all who attended and especially to Gavin Minter of Real Wired Music for organising the event and selecting the CoGH SPCA as the beneficiary.

Sweet sounds - So determined was Adel Wagener from Oranjezicht to create a soothing environment for the dogs in our adoption kennels that she sponsored and installed a sound system that plays classical music to the dogs during the day, while they wait to be adopted. Adel is a generous supporter who has been donating toys, blankets and biscuits to the SPCA Animal Centre for years and is definitely one of our heroes!

PetAlive - Between October and December last year, the PetAlive Charity Drive competition raised R3 278 for the CoGH SPCA Lost and Found Department, helping us to continue reuniting lost pets with their owners.

Pictured above is SPCA’s Cassandra Graff and Carol-Ann Brand with PetAlive MD, Michele Carelse.

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A little girl’s big gift - Mia-Lize from Citrusdal asked guests attending her birthday party on 3 February to donate money to the CoGH SPCA instead of buying her a gift. She managed to raise R1000 for her furry friends and has been an inspiration to us all.

Recycling pays - In November, the CoGH SPCA was placed third in the 2011 Collect-a-Can Guinness World Records™ Competition in the NGO category and won shopping vouchers to the value of R3 000.

Goes to show that recycling really does pay!

Mutt’s showbiz success - 2009 SPCA Mutt of the Year winner Shenzi, who wowed audiences in October 2010 as Sandy in the Gilbert and Sullivan Society production of Annie, thrilled audiences again in the same role for Fish Hoek Primary School’s production of Annie in October 2011. Shenzi has proved himself to be a highly-intelligent animal actor, with a wonderful temperament. He continues to spread the message that rescued mutts are clever and cool. Shenzi was rewarded by the cast with a huge bone and a donation for his SPCA friends.

Woof, woof!

Every penny counts - Stationed at nearly 800 businesses across Cape Town, the SPCA money tins raised a whopping R364 000 during the last financial year.

Thank you to everyone who dropped coins (and sometimes notes) into our tins.

Special thanks to Boland Printers who have once again committed to printing 4500 tin labels at no cost, as well as to all the stores, businesses and private individuals for their support in either displaying or collecting these tins.

If you’d like an SPCA collection tin for your business, office or home, or to find out where our tins are located, please contact Natasha Johannes on 021 700 4141 or email awareness@spca-ct.co.za.

Pupils from Bergvliet Junior School collected much needed tins and bags of pet food for the SPCA, which they handed over to Oscar and Joanne Lefson of World Woof Tour fame. Oscar who has become a globe-trotting ambassador for rescued hounds, was adopted by Joanne from the CoGH SPCA and together they have dedicated their lives to promoting dog adoption. Thank you Bergvliet Junior!

......For your Diary l

A birthday shared - In January 2012, Herschel Pre-Preparatory Secretary, Corinne Levitt asked the students to donate pet food to the SPCA in lieu of gifts for her birthday. Organised by the Nursery Busy Bees class representatives, each child presented her with a rose and a tin or sachet of dog or cat food. In total Corinne and the Busy Bees class collected R100 and 20 tins of cat and dog food for the SPCA.

Something to WARM YOUR HEART… Whilst en route to an investigation in Summer Greens, CoGH SPCA Inspector Sparky Moseki was stopped by a homeless man who was very concerned about the welfare of a dog at a house nearby.

“He asked me to follow him to where the dog was, and ran next to the vehicle for about 1km to show me where the dog lay. I was appalled to find a very old male Staffordshire Terrier struggling to breathe because of a very large,

inoperable and infected tumor which had been allowed to grow over most of his face. The homeless man was clearly upset and said he just couldn’t bear to see this animal suffer like this”, said Sparky.

Thanks to this Good Samaritan, the SPCA was able to humanely end the dog’s suffering. This goes to show that love for animals has no boundaries nor is it determined by someone’s financial means.

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SPCA Royal Canin Mutt and Meow online competition Your pet is pretty cute but does he or she have what it takes to be the next SPCA Royal Canin Mutt and Meow of the Year? Find out by visiting the SPCA website (www.spca-ct.co.za) from Monday, 2 April. You’ll need to upload a picture of your cat and/or dog and tell us why he/she should take home the prestigious title. Fantastic prizes to be won from Royal Canin for you and your pet!

Book your spot at the next Volunteer Orientation Session to work with the animals in our care or help our fundraising team at events or by sorting and categorising second-hand books. The dates for the upcoming volunteer orientation sessions are:- 14 April - 12 May - 9 June

Should you wish to attend, please contact Juan August on 021 700 4180 or email events@spca-ct.co.za with your name, age, contact details and your preferred orientation date. l

The SPCA Book Shop is now open every day at the SPCA premises in Grassy Park.

The new opening hours are 9am to 4pm on Mondays to Fridays and from 9am to 11:30am on Saturdays and Sundays.

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Bag a Bargain Book Sale at the SPCA Book Shop on Saturday, 14 April, for great deals and spectacular savings on a wide selection of fiction and non-fiction books.

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SPCA Charity Book Sale at Canal Walk from 29 June to 1 July in the Vida e court, Canal Walk on the upper level from 9am to 6pm each day.

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FACT FILE DID YOU KNOW? l Cats cannot see directly below their heads, which is why they can’t see food that's right under their noses. Keep this in mind when you next feed your kitty. l A lost pet wearing a tag displaying the owner’s phone number, is more likely to be reunited with its family than those that don’t. Pets that are microchipped have a 90% chance of finding their owners than those that haven’t been fitted with this grainsized chip, containing all their owner’s details. l Staffed by three vets and a team of nurses and orderlies, the CoGH SPCA animal hospital and mobile clinics provide medical treatment for sick and injured animals brought to the SPCA by our Inspectorate or by owners who are unable to afford private veterinary care. l A priority of the animal hospital is pet sterilisation and during 2011, 5899 dogs and cats were sterilised.

The department relies on public donations to subsidise its cost.

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Last year the mobile clinics were also responsible for 24 072 treatments and vaccinations in poorer communities.

Distemper and Parvo virus All dogs MUST be vaccinated against distemper and parvo - two deadly viruses that can kill or leave severe side effects.

Symptoms:Distemper - mild cold-like symptoms preceded by thick mucous discharge from nose or eyes with coughing and sneezing, lethargy, vomiting and diarrhoea.

Parvo - Loss of appetite, vomiting and bloody diarrhoea. Puppies are the most susceptible and die in as little as 48 hours after the onset.

Certain breeds, such as Rottweilers, Dobermans, German Shepherds and American Pit Bull Terriers seem to be more vulnerable.

Seek veterinary attention immediately if you suspect your dog may be showing signs of these viruses.

SHOP WITH US TREATS WITH A CONSCIENCE

Best buys for you and your furry friends from the SPCA Vet Shop team

NIBBLES AND COOKIES Treat your pooch to mouthwatering biscuits made from low cal, free-range ingredients from the PupCake Company.

The Chicken Liver Nibbles; Beefy Biltong; Peanut Butter Nibbles; Peanut Butter Melting Moments; Beefy Biltong Hearts and Puppy Love Hearts are priced from R15 to R48 and are sure to keep tails-wagging!

Pick up a bag of Wag-a-lots biscuit treats next time you’re shopping at the SPCA Vet Shop and you'll be doing good while keeping your dog happy. The treats have been manufactured by a group of intellectually disabled young adults for almost 10 years and are made from all natural ingredients. Sold in 100g packets for just R21, you can choose from biltong, omega 3, chicken or low fat.

GOOD ENOUGH TO EAT

PINT-SIZED MEAL

Gabriella’s nose-wetting nutritious treats for cats and dogs are made from ingredients good enough for pet owners to eat!

Priced from R24 and available in a variety of flavours including Chewy Chicken; Wacky Waffers; Moo Chews; Ostrich Training Treats; Mitey Bites; and Ostrich Munchies.

If you have a miniature mutt try the new Hill’s Science Plan Canine Mini Light. The bite-sized kibbles are tailormade for small mouths and are made with high quality ingredients and fewer calories that your mini dog will love.

Available in Adult and Mature Adult, this is the ideal food to keep small dogs fit and healthy, especially when they’ve been sterilised.

PLAYTIME WITH PET BALLOONZ

PET IDENTIFICATION TAGS

The awesome new range of helium walking Pet Balloonz is now available!

Delightful and very cute, your children will love taking their balloons for walkies. Made from topquality materials, the dog shaped balloons carry an SPCA sticker and for each balloon sold the SPCA receives 20% of the proceeds. To order, please email Natasha Johannes at awareness@spca-ct.co.za or phone 021 700 4141.

A lost cat or dog can’t ‘phone home’ but if they are wearing a pet tag, the person who finds them can. Personalised brass pet identification tags are now available from the SPCA at R50 each. Round tags are available in two sizes with engraving on one side (larger) or both sides (smaller). The smaller tags are suitable for both cats and dogs. We also have bone-shaped tags engraved on both sides for dogs.

To order, please email Natasha Johannes at awareness@spca-ct.co.za or phone 021 700 4141.

Cape of Good Hope

DOG BOWLS WITH A HEART Spread a little love with our SPCA pink or blue heart-shaped ‘friendship’ bowls.

For each of the bowls sold the SPCA receives 50% towards feeding the many animals in our care. Get yours today from our SPCA Vet Shop for just R65.

For larger orders phone Natasha Johannes on 021 700 4155 or email awareness@spca-ct.co.za.

SPCA Vet Shop 6 Gabriel Road, Plumstead Stockists of all leading pet product brands

All profits from product sales help the SPCA fight animal cruelty .

Trading Hours: Monday to Friday: 8am - 6pm, Saturday: 8am - 2pm

Tel: 021 761 4463

- Delivery service available 9

FELINE BEHAVIOUR -

territorial by nature

Cats are mysterious creatures whose behaviour is often misunderstood.

In search of the secrets behind the territorial nature of cats, Footprints chatted to qualified animal behaviourist, writer and academic, Karin Landsberg who answered some of the more frequently asked questions about our feline friends.

Which cats are more likely to roam in residential areas?

Most cats in residential areas are unsupervised pets and lost or abandoned tame stray cats. Wild feral cats are less likely to occupy the artificially dense environments of the cities and suburbs where most domestic cats reside.

What is territorial behaviour?

Cats can have a wide range of territory, claiming space by rubbing or scratching to mark an object with pheromones, urine spraying on vertical objects or a cat may use maddening (leaving faeces uncovered in a high traffic area) as another form of marking. Through these scent and visual markers, cats post their own distinctive claim to their hunting and breeding grounds. Potential trespassers coming across such a 10

marker must retreat or enter at their own risk.

Can territorial behaviour be trained out of cats?

Territorial behaviour in cats is instinctive, regardless of gender, breed or reproductive status and cannot be trained away, therefore understanding the need of your feline friend is essential to remedy human expectations.

Are cats anti-social?

Contrary to popular belief, cats are sociable creatures and can exist within insular colonies but they have to be socialised extensively before eight weeks of age. Another variable of sociability includes genetic predispositions towards certain social behaviour. Over time new members may be integrated into the group, but

Photograph by Lawrence Weslowski Jr. courtesy of the Calendar Shop

conflicts may still occur between cats sharing the same territory.

Does sterilisation lessen the roaming instinct in cats?

Sterilised cats exhibit a lesser degree of this wanderlust and are also less inclined to transmit zoonotic diseases and acquire injuries whilst fighting.

(The SPCA recommends sterilisation, vaccination, and identification with a collar, pet ID tag and microchip to ensure the welfare of your cat.)

What happens if more than one cat claims the same territory?

Territory may be shared quite peacefully by most cats, provided that resources, such as food, water, security and comfort are adequate.

A dispute may erupt depending on how much a cat wants to maintain its territory. The more cats there are in a household, the more chances there are for conflicts.

Does age play a factor?

Kittens reaching physical and behavioural maturity may discover their own sense of territory or may be

suddenly resented by another resident cat. An old cat is more likely to become passive to avoid conflict situations.

How can one prevent territorial aggression?

Never use physical or verbal abuse to change the behaviour of your cats as this does not work but rather redirect undesired behaviour with positive reinforcement techniques. If cats sharing a space show aggression towards each other, it is best to seek help from a qualified, accredited feline Behaviourist (accreditation bodies in SA at the moment are Cape Association of Pet Behaviourists and Trainers South Africa (CAPBT SA), Animal Behaviour Consultants of Southern Africa (ABC) and South African Board of Companion Animal Professionals (SABCAP) only.

To prevent roaming by unfamiliar cats it is best to enclose your garden.

Magnetic cat flaps will prevent intruder cats from accessing your cat’s safe space, which could lead to spraying and an extremely nervous pet cat.

SPCA EDUCATES learners accused of animal cruelty Learners from a primary school in Lotus River have begun humane education lessons after two in the group were alleged to have aided a teenager in a heinous act of cruelty against a dog, which was found beaten, stoned and buried alive in November 2011.

The CoGH SPCA was called in by the Principal of the primary school to help the severely injured dog found abandoned with a wire tied around her neck and attached to a pole outside the school grounds. The dog had been stoned and buried alive by two pupils and a teenager who is believed to be the instigator of this act of animal cruelty. The dog was rushed to the SPCA hospital where SPCA vets tried in vain to save her before humanely ending her suffering.

Since the shocking incident, the Principal has been working closely with SPCA educators and a Department of Education psychologist, to start the process of teaching the learners about responsible pet care and to respect and value all life. At her invitation, the SPCA presented its Ani-Pal education puppet show to Grade 4 learners and invited groups of the now Grade 5 learners to spend time at the SPCA after school hours, where they will help to care for animals and learn hands-on about responsible pet care, under the supervision of the SPCA educators.

In addition, the SPCA educators will be returning to the school in April 2012 to spend three weeks presenting the full programme to all Grade 1 to 5 learners, followed by an after-school mobile clinic programme to encourage pet sterilisation.

“Since 9 February, the grade 5 learners and a teacher have been visiting the SPCA to learn about

responsible pet care and to have compassion for all animals. The boys have all been very keen to help and enjoyed spending time interacting with the various animals”, said SPCA Education Manager, Lucille Boonzaier.

“We commend the school for their support and for highlighting the need for responsible pet care within the community,” she said.

SPCA Inspectors have visited the home of the teenager alleged to have been the main instigator in this case, to discuss the animal abuse with his parents and seek ways to educate the minor on animal welfare.

Six learners from a primary school in Lotus River have begun the rehabilitation and humane learning process

Grade 4 learners watch the SPCA’s educational puppet show on responsible pet ownership

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Christmas Bequest Society Luncheon

DAZZLES AND DELIGHTS SPCA Bequest Society members and their guests who attended the CoGH SPCA’s 15th annual Bequest Society and Donor Recognition Awards Luncheon, held at the Vineyard Hotel on 13 December 2011, were treated to a wonderful afternoon of fine food and fabulous entertainment.

Tenor Aubrey Ellis acted as MC and guests were treated to a dazzling performance by Cape Town City Ballet dancers, whilst enjoying a mouthwatering three course meal.

The highlight of the event was the presentation by para-equestrian Olympic double-gold medalist, Philippa Johnson, who as the new Ambassador for the SPCA Horse Care Unit, shared a moving account of her brave journey to Olympic gold (see feature story for more).

Donor Recognition certificates were presented to representatives from Digital Pro, Cipla Vet and to the Cape

Academy for Mathematics, Science and Technology. Membership badges were presented to our newest Bequest Society members, Vickie McKenzie; Megan Pentz-Kluyts; Brenda Houston and Gayle Slyper.

Sales of raffle tickets raised more than R5 500 and prizes included a beautiful animal-themed Christmas cake, which was won by Nic Hugo of Fish Hoek.

If you are considering making provision for a gift to our organisation in your will, or have already left us a legacy gift, please let us know so that we can thank you and welcome you into our special Bequest Society.

Contact Bequest and Major Donor Officer, Carol-Ann Brand on 021 700 4150 or email bequestofficer@spca-ct.co.za.

For your diaries: Bequest Society Luncheons on 10 May and 6 December 2012.

Cape Town City Ballet dancers performed excerpts from their Christmas ballet, Coppelia

Michelle Murgatroyd, Gayle Slyper and Karin Mercer

Above: Bequest Society member Joyce Beeton (right) and daughter Candice Right: Bequest Society members Derek and Sylvia Ledgard 12

Dr. Craig Mincher, MD of CIPLA Vet receives the SPCA’s Certificate of Recognition from SPCA director Cami Mbulawa

Guest Speaker, Philippa Johnson pictured here with SPCA’s Communication and Resource Development Manager, Sarah Scarth

Bequest Society member Yvonne Hanekom and her guests, Eduard and Carla Hanekom

Liesel Botha of DigitalPro receives the SPCA’s Certificate of Recognition from SPCA director, Cami Mbulawa Guests Frith Jackaman and Shirley Harrod had a delightful afternoon

SPCA CEO, Allan Perrins welcomes new Bequest Society member Gayle Slyper

Pam and Lionel Stacey, guests of Bequest Society members Raymond and Sednye Bey-Leveld enjoyed the afternoon 13

Photo: Leon Lestrade, Cape Argus

SA PARALYMPIAN new SPCA Horse Care Unit Ambassador When a tragic car accident in 1998 killed her brother and boyfriend and left her almost paralysed down one side, equestrian rider Philippa Johnson, who was preparing to move to Europe to train for international dressage events, was told she would never ride a horse again.

Ten years later her positive attitude and relentless determination paid off,

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when she and her horse Benedict won double-gold at the Beijing Paralympic Games in Dressage and Musical Kurs.

During her annual visit home from Belgium this past December, (where she is currently preparing for the London Paralympic Games) she generously spent time at the SPCA Horse Care Unit and was the special guest speaker at our Christmas Bequest Society luncheon in her capacity as an Ambassador for the SPCA Horse Care Unit.

Her deeply moving story captivated the audience and there wasn’t a dry eye in the room as she passionately shared how she turned utter disaster into magnificent triumph. Here reprinted for

Footprints readers is Philippa’s speech:“I know most of you would like to hear about my phenomenal Olympic horse, Benedict, but today I would like to tell you about another equine angel who saved my life. His name is Sundowner Kingpin otherwise known as Boyzie, because he was my baby boy! I have ridden and worked with horses my whole life. I was lucky enough to have ponies, but as I grew up it was not possible for my family to invest in a horse for me. However, this didn’t stop me riding as my uncle owned a large competition stables and there were always horses to be ridden. Just before I turned 21 my parents told me they could help me buy a horse. My brother found an advert for a young warm-blood and I phoned the lady and made

arrangements to go look at this young horse. The lady told me over the phone not to worry about how the horse looked, as she liked to keep her warm-bloods light in body condition, as she believed too much protein was bad for their joints.

My father and I arrived and were shown into a dark, smelly cow shed only to discover this enormous young warm-blood standing 16,3hh at the age of 3. I had never seen such a thin horse in my whole life! You could see his ribs, his back bone and it looked like his hips were about to come through the skin. We phoned our vet to come out and see him, who later phoned us back and told us that if she hadn’t gone out, the horse would have died that night as he was not only suffering from malnutrition but also had biliary. What to do...we

bought him! When my dad and uncle went to fetch him he was so thin and weak, they literally just picked him up and put him in the trailer. We kept him a stallion as we needed the extra testosterone to keep him alive and once he recovered he was so sweet and gentle, we never had cause to geld him. He went from strength to strength!

On the October 27, 1998, I was involved in a car accident in which I lost my brother, my boyfriend and the use of the right side of my body. I was lucky enough to regain about 60% use of my right leg back but would not regain the use of my right arm.

The doctors told me I would never ride again, so not only had I lost two of the most precious people in my life, but now they were taking away the true passion in my life. As an answer to this statement made by my doctors, I made my best friend, Leanne, two promises: I told her I would walk by the end of the week (which in itself was a big ask as the nurses could still not sit me up without me throwing up and passing out) and that by the first January 1999 and I would put my bum back in the saddle. I walked by the Wednesday and on the first of January with a lot of help, pushing and pulling, I finally got back in the saddle!

Boyzie by this stage was a huge, strapping 17,3hh stallion but looked after me like his life depended on it.

Dad led me around as he had when he first taught me how to ride. I was incredibly weak as I had no stabilizers on my right side, so would often tip forward losing

my balance. Boyzie would immediately stop, wait for me to right myself and slowly move on. We had come full circle, having saved his life it was now his turn to save mine!

A year after my accident, I was really starting to get back into riding and finding my way, with a lot of help, when it came to riding with one hand.

Boyzie and I had even been to our first competition, although I had downgraded him, purely due to my own limitations, but as a result we had won! This of course made me think I could do anything and a week after the competition I tried to get onto Boyzie with no-one holding him.

He took two tiny steps forward but that was enough for me to lose my balance and fall backwards into the wall of the indoor arena, breaking my back! Another six months of no riding! This of course was extraordinarily frustrating, but just because I couldn’t ride didn’t mean I couldn’t work with my horse.

I had been working with an amazing Occupational Therapist, Lisa Hare, who used a system known as joining up to work with her therapy horses. It is a technique in which using body language you get a horse to accept you as leader of ‘the herd’.

Lisa came to help me and she did the first join up with Boyzie, which went off without a problem. My turn, with Lisa giving me instructions I started working with Boyzie. All was going brilliantly until the final stage, he would start coming to me and then at the last moment throw his head in the air and gallop

PHILIPPA JOHNSON Born: Achievements:

9 December 1974, Johannesburg Double silver-medallist at Athens Paralympic Games with Benedict (2004) l Double gold-medallist at Beijing Paralympic Games with Benedict (first equestrian gold medal ever for South Africa) (2008) l BMC Centaur Cup winner (2010) l Silver-medallist Individual Championship l Bronze-medallist at World Equestrian Games with Benedict (2007) - Musical Kurs Upcoming events: London Paralympic Games competing in Dressage and Musical Kurs on her new horse, Verdi Personal motto: “Don’t allow anyone to put limits on your dreams”. l

off. After this happened a few times Lisa stopped me and said: “There is something going on between the two of you and you need to sort that out before he will join with you.”

At that stage I was working with a wonderful healer and I asked him if he would be willing to help me. Steve had never worked with horses before but agreed to try. Steve works a lot with muscle testing and said he needed me to be a surrogate for Boyzie. I had to stand with my right shoulder against him and hold out my left arm. Steve first asked Boyzie if he was willing to have me as a surrogate to which he answered yes. Steve then tested him physically to rule out any obvious problems but all was good, by this stage Boyzie was standing in the middle of his stable relaxed, chewing, eyes almost closed.

“Now”, Steve said, “When I next start testing you imagine

your fall”. As we started, Boyzie’s head shot up, he raced to the back of his stable rolling his eyes and looking at us. “There’s your problem,” said Steve, “as a stallion his job is to protect the herd. If he gives the leadership over to you he can’t protect you!”

So the moral of this story is that whilst we think we teach our horses, they in fact teach us just as much!

I had the privilege of touring the SPCA Horse Care Unit last Thursday and what a wonderful experience it was. They say if you want a 9 to 5 job don't work with horses but there are no complaints at the HCU. All you see are smiles and hear kind, gentle words being whispered into long uncertain ears. By donating to this fabulous unit you are not only helping the horses but you are enriching the lives and souls of the people who eventually end up with these equine angels in their lives.”

Philippa competing on Benedict, with whom she won double gold at the Beijing Paralympic Games in 2008

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16

2011

Photo by Sally Mellish

Photo by Tamed & Framed Pet Photography

2530 people and 1746 dogs wiggle waggled with the SPCA and Royal Canin

Photo by Tamed & Framed Pet Photography

Not even the threat of a summer rain shower could deter hundreds of eager walkers and their dogs from taking part in the 2011 SPCA Royal Canin Wiggle Waggle Walkathon on Sunday 20 November in Tokai, which raised R250 000 for the Cape of Good Hope SPCA. In total 2530 people and 1746 dogs, ‘wiggled’ and ‘waggled’ along the 4,5km course in South Africa’s biggest dog walk.

Royal Canin Area Sales Manager, Western Cape, Lara Portlock, said after the walk: “It was incredible to see the passion that owners have for their dogs. We interacted with many who visited our exhibition stand to chat to us about the nutritional needs of their pets and we were pleased to see so many dogs in such excellent health. This shows that owners are adopting a philosophy of responsible pet ownership.”

Before and after the walk dogs and owners relaxed and had fun with wellknown comedians, Soli Philander and Kurt Schoonraad, who kept the crowds entertained and helped give away thousands of Rands worth of spot prizes.

Walkers and their dogs started arriving at the Academy for Maths, Science and Technology, from 7am and the walk started just a few minutes after 9am. Despite the huge number of dogs and walkers taking part, there were no veterinary issues and only one person had to be treated for a minor injury.

“The SPCA and Royal Canin take the safety and well-being of the walkathon participants very seriously so we were very pleased that the event took place without serious injury to any dog or person”, said SPCA events coordinator, Juan August.

A dog agility show after the walk thrilled the crowds, just before the rain brought proceedings to a close.

Everyone went home with a gift from Royal Canin and the satisfaction of walking for a good cause.

“We are proud to be associated with this iconic Cape Town event, which raises much-needed funds for the Cape of Good Hope SPCA”, said Royal Canin’s Portlock. “Royal Canin and the SPCA share a similar philosophy - knowledge and respect for the animal, and on Wiggle Waggle day we could see that many pet owners feel the same way. The Wiggle Waggle Walkathon just keeps getting bigger and better every year and we are already looking forward to the 2012 event”.

Katie-Rose Powell (10) and Cassidy Wagner (10) with Jack and Ollie from Kreupelbosch

Owen, Hannah (12) and Kylie Snell (6) with Trinkle and Phoebe from Kuils River

Photo by Frank Moody

BREAKS ALL RECORDS

Photo by Michaela Verity

MC Soli Philander with Chesney Katzke and Bubbles of Westlake

Photo by Sally Mellish

Photo by Angelo Marsiglia

The dog agility display thrilled audiences

Nigel and Chingu from Zeekoevlei

Photo by Tamed & Framed Pet Photography

Above: Liesl Ludir from Tokai with her dog Lulu

Kurt Schoonraad with his dog Algebra and Liezel van der Westhuizen with Milo 17

COMMITTED SUPPORT LEADS TO TANGIBLE RESULTS The Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), Cape Town International Airport (CTIA), has been a major contributor to the CoGH SPCA’s Mobile Clinic programme for the past four years. Grants totalling R752 000 made through the company’s CSI programme, have enabled the CoGH SPCA to increase its mobile clinic fleet and services to impoverished communities around the airport, which have not only helped thousands of dogs and cats but also improved the health of the community, by reducing the spread of zoonotic diseases, such as worms and mange.

ACSA has four key areas of focus, which it uses to categorise potential beneficiaries. These areas are: l Community Development l Mobility l Economic Development l Environmental Protection Says Gareth Bain, Communications Officer for ACSA Cape Town International Airport: “At an airport level we primarily focus on Community Development and Environmental Protection. The SPCA falls into both of these categories as

From left: ACSA, CTIA Communications Officer, Gareth Bain; CoGH SPCA Communications and Resource Development Manager, Sarah Scarth; ACSA, CTIA Communications Manager, Deidre Davids and ACSA, CTIA General Manager, Deon Cloete.

it helps to develop communities (in the taking care of animals) as well as making an environmental impact (in terms of helping to eradicate diseases). Our main reason for supporting the SPCA’s mobile clinic programme was because it focuses on the core communities around the airport. This is critical for the airport and because the unit is mobile, it is able to target multiple communities.”

“We can see the tangible difference made by the SPCA since it

started working in these communities and how the residents have become more comfortable admitting their animals for treatment. The grant also acknowledges the support we receive from the SPCA with stray animals found at the airport as well as their reactive monitoring of shipments of exotic animals which periodically come through the ACSA CTIA,” said Gareth.

SPCA Communications and Resource Development manager,

Sarah Scarth had the honour of receiving the grant cheque at the ACSA CSI Beneficiary Awards ceremony in November last year.

“The CoGH SPCA is enormously grateful for ACSA Cape Town International Airport’s long-term support for the SPCA’s Mobile Clinic programme and we value the confidence that they have demonstrated in us by supporting this critical area of our work.

HOSPITAL FACTS

SPECIAL CARE FOR THERAPY DOGS

The CoGH SPCA Animal Hospital in Grassy Park is the largest in the Western Cape and treats thousands of sick, injured and abused animals each year.

With a staff complement of 35, including three full time vets, the hospital operates as a welfare facility, serving owners who are unable to afford private veterinary care. Clinic treatments and surgical procedures are all subsidised and rates charged are determined by an almoning policy, based on the client’s household income. Sterilisation is a main priority for the hospital and its four mobile clinics, which take the SPCA hospital services into impoverished communities across the Cape Peninsula.

In August, 2011 Alvyn Fortuin and Joseph Adonis who both live at Includid, a residential area in Maitland for the intellectually disabled, noticed their dogs, Bobby and Blackie limping and asked the group home assistant manager, Mazwi Ndikolo to contact the SPCA animal hospital for help.

Mr Fortuin and Mr Adonis are roommates at Includid, where they were encouraged to rescue the abandoned puppies and keep them as companions and therapeutic pets. Both were very concerned and anxious about their dog’s well-being.

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Mazwi Ndikolo, Joseph Adonis, and Alvyn Fortuin pictured here with Blackie and Bobby

Both Bobby and Blackie were delivered to the SPCA Hospital, where they each underwent surgery performed by veterinarian Dr Kuki Harris, to repair the torn cruciate

ligaments of the knee, a fairly common injury in large breed dogs that lead active and playful lives.

“Alvyn and Joseph are intellectually disabled but high-functioning and have always taken great care of their dogs. We monitor their daily activities and since the operation they have been following the vet’s orders not to over-exercise the dogs, to ensure that both canines make a full recovery,” said Includid’s Mr Ndikolo.

WHO’S THE BOSS?

by Andrew Flynn

Picture: Icanhascheezburger.com

dominate a dog on meeting him or her and the dog will react to this approach with trepidation, insecurity and often fear, but that doesn’t make the person a pack leader.

Pack leadership at home has to be earned through the respect, trust and love of the handler and that doesn’t occur overnight. In fact, trying to assume the pack leadership through dominance or fear can have disastrous effects with people possibly getting bitten.

Pack leadership at home involves discipline, setting boundaries and being in control, yet still giving the dog the appropriate attention and exercise. Removing a dog as a pack leader involves, amongst other things, the removal of privileges in the home in a controlled manner and preferably under the guidance of an experienced trainer and/or behaviourist.

For example if your dog constantly wants to sit next to you or even above your head (i.e. on the back of the sofa), show the dog down and if necessary put the dog lower than you. You should also never allow your dog to pull in front of you when on the lead. He or she should always be at your side and just a touch behind you, to show them you are their leader. If your dog pushes ahead of you to get through an open door, this is another way he or she is demonstrating their leadership and you need to prevent this by using your legs to prevent them going

through before you coupled with a firm command to make them stay.

Once you are through the doorway you then call them to follow.

Remember to always reward good behaviour with a “good boy/girl” and bad behaviour with a firm “no”.

Unfortunately, the dog won’t just abdicate his/her position just like that. There’s going to be a good deal of resistance, especially if the dog’s been living the high life. So, you will need to manage the resistance in a constructive way. Once you have attained the position of pack leader, you need to maintain that position as the dog will be looking for any gap to retain the top spot, so constant implementation of the rules will need to be practiced.

Finally, there is only one pack leader, so the fact that you have become the boss certainly doesn’t mean that the rest of the family are also pack leaders. Small children especially should be prevented from emulating your corrections on the dog as that can lead to serious problems.

Sometimes the best way to handle dominance and pack leadership problems is to take yourself and your dog off to a good training school where the issue can be handled properly and professionally. I guarantee you the time will be well spent and the results and rewards will undoubtedly strengthen the bond between you and your furry best friend.

The issue of pack leadership is a very well discussed subject, studied by just about every animal behaviourist, but what I present here is practical help for the average dog owner, based on my experience as a dog trainer.

Understanding pack leadership is a hugely important area of dog management and needs to be understood by anyone owning and bringing up a dog in the home environment. Pack leadership goes hand in hand with the dominance structure in the family (or in other words the pecking order) and all too often the handlers that bring their dogs for training are definitely not the pack leader.

The trick is to turn the situation

around whereby the dog accepts the ‘demotion’ in a calm and controlled manner. The reason why the dog got to be the pack leader in the first place is the subject of another discussion, but the important thing to remember is that the dog has been allowed to occupy that position and is not going to give it up easily.

Firstly, let’s distinguish between domination and pack leadership.

Many strong-willed people can 19

ANNUAL HORSE SHOW BENEFITS SPCA HORSE CARE UNIT

Nina Kingler from Oranjezicht riding “I’m Blue”

The 16th annual SPCA Horse Show took place on 10 and 11 December 2011 at the Constantia Valley Riding Club (CVRC) and raised R 49 290 for CoGH SPCA and the society's Horse Care Unit in Grassy Park. The unit is one of only three specialist Horse Care Units in South Africa, which cares for abused, abandoned, sick and injured horses, ponies and donkeys.

Said event organiser Juan

August: “Despite the unexpected summer rain, we were thrilled that so many loyal SPCA Horse Show participants and their family and friends turned out for the event in support of the CoGH SPCA”.

One of the highlights of the show was the participation of young South African Riding for the Disabled Association (SARDA) riders in the showing classes. The winner of the Best Disabled Rider class was seven year old Nina Kingler from Oranjezicht and her horse I’m Blue.

The 2012 SPCA Horse Show is

Victor Ludorum winner Elsie Sholto Douglas with horse Sally

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Show Jumping winners - in the 1st place Kayla Child with Belbriggen, 2nd place Lisa Blyth with Frange and in 3rd place Sarah McNulty with Je Taime with SPCA Horse Care unit Ambassador Para-Equestrian Olympic double-gold medalist, Philippa Johnson and Kim Shiffman who together with her husband Ian sponsored this SPCA show jumping wall.

scheduled to take place during October at CVRC and will be held over one day with showing and show jumping classes running concurrently.

Further details will be released closer to the date.

Check the SPCA website www.spca-ct.co.za for more details.

WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS In October, a Marbled Tree Snake predominantly found in the Limpopo Province, Kwa-Zulu Natal and Mpumulanga found its way to Cape Town in a box of nectarines being transported in a produce truck. A first for the SPCA Wildlife Unit! l In September, three Rock Monitors were found in the residential suburbs of Ruytervacht, Plumstead and Lotus River, believed to have been transported in trucks carrying food products. These reptiles are found in the Karoo and areas further north and are able to thrive in almost any environment.

All the reptiles rescued were safely placed in suitable sanctuaries as advised by Cape Nature.

So next time you take a road trip remember to keep the SPCA numbers handy - 021 700 4158/59 or after hours 083 326 1604. l

BABOON ALERT If you live close to natural areas inhabited by baboons, it is important that you familiarise yourself and your family on how to react should you find a baboon in your home. Here are some tips on what to do: l Try not to panic. l Back away slowly. l Don’t look the baboon straight in the eye and don’t show them your teeth, as the baboon might assume that you are challenging him or her and challenge back. l Identify an escape route for the baboon that is unobstructed i.e. open a window or door for it to get out of. l Don’t try and corner or trap the baboon - they are strong, powerful animals and will fight back if threatened. l If the baboon has stolen food, don’t try and wrestle this back the loaf of bread or bag of apples is not worth it. l Try and get to a safe place and contact the Nature Conservation Corporation (who are responsible for baboon management) on their hotline 071 588 6540. Alternatively, call the Cape of Good Hope SPCA Wildlife Unit on 021 700 4158/59 or after hours on 083 326 1604.

We suggest you put both these numbers into your cell and home phones.

For further guidelines on what to do when encountering a baboon, please visit www.ncc-group.co.za Please remember that it is an offence to maim or injure any animal and so do not attempt to shoot, hit or in any way hurt the baboons; rather allow the professionals to resolve the problem.

It’s not uncommon for the SPCA Wildlife Unit to be called out to rescue snakes and other reptiles indigenous to other parts of South Africa, which have reached Cape Town via unusual methods.

Here are just three such wildlife rescues carried out by the Wildlife Unit in the past year. l In November, SPCA Inspector

Gareth Petterson responded to a report from a Swedish tourist who found a snake under the hood of his rental vehicle. A surprised Inspector Petterson found a 1,2m Black Spitting Cobra, a snake not commonly found in Cape Town and described as rare in the South African Red Data Book - Reptiles and Amphibians (Branch 1988).

SEAL STRANDINGS explained

Far left: Seal pups Left: A yearling seal

During the annual seal breeding season (November to March), the CoGH SPCA is often inundated with calls to rescue Cape Fur seal pups found along the False Bay and Atlantic coastline.

In December, over 400 hundred dead seals were found on Strandfontein and Kommetjie beaches, believed to be yearlings that probably drowned or died of exhaustion.

The Footprints team chatted to Wildlife Unit Supervisor Brett Glasby, to find out why seals strand and when we should be concerned.

“During summer it’s not usual for yearlings (6 months to 2 years, brown and between 0.5 to 1m in

length) to haul out on beaches, as well as seal pups (0 to 3 months old and black) that have come ashore after being swept off Seal Island.

It’s important to distinguish between the two as the help they require is very different,” says SPCA Wildlife Unit manager, Brett Glasby.

Says Brett: “The rule is that only young black seal pups and yearling seals that are visibly injured need immediate assistance and you should contact the SPCA on 021 700 4158/9 during office hours or on 083 326 1604 after hours.

It is an offence for anyone without the necessary permits to touch, feed or transport a seal.”

“Yearling seals usually rest on beaches and rocks for a day or two after a long feeding trip. They will often appear underweight, which is common as they learn to fend for themselves. Most people get concerned when they see the seal shivering, but this is a normal warming action, so it's important never to pour water over the animal.

Disturbing these seals will only cause the animal to become distressed and could result in death from stressinduced shock.”

“If the seal does not return to the sea within a day or two, only then should you contact the SPCA for assistance.”

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Happy TAILS

Every dog has its day Minnie (formerly known as Jasmin), an adult Siberian Husky came to the SPCA after her owners could no longer care for her. She found her happily-everafter in September with Rolf Brenner of Tableview, who came to the SPCA looking for a companion for his DachshundLabrador cross, Jessie.

This is their story: “When we visited the SPCA I was introduced to Minnie and I knew straight away that she was the right choice. It is still a mystery to me how a beauty like her can be rejected, but obviously ‘one man’s loss is another man’s gain’! After a few little growls between her and Jessie to ascertain who’s the boss, they were soon getting along fantastically well and are now very best friends. We live close to the beach and at first she was cautious of the surf but now she happily plays in the water. Minnie is the centre of attraction wherever we go and her coat has thickened up beautifully! She cools down in the pond after her walks and comes out with mud covered paws, so we’ve nicknamed her ‘Black Socks’.

Minnie is a gentle, soft-natured dog and she never barks. It is a privilege to have an animal like her in the house.

Thank you SPCA!”

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Ever wondered what happens to animals once they have been rehomed by the SPCA? Here are a few happyever-afters to warm your heart!

Lending a paw

New tricks saves old dog

In Late August 2011, Levi, a Fox Terrier cross male was adopted by Esme Van der Bijl of Fish Hoek after her vet friend and great supporter of the SPCA, Dr Yvonne Robson recommended that she get a companion animal for her dog Lulu, a female Boerbull cross.

Yvonne accompanied the Van der Bijl’s to the SPCA where they were introduced to Levi. He was a perfect match for Lulu who had her leg amputated after an aggressive cancer developed in her front wrist joint.

“Lulu became extremely depressed and needed a young, calm male partner, who would help her exercise more and take the weight off her remaining front leg”, said Esme According to Esme, Lulu was immediately smitten with the four month old Levi and now happily shares their home with him. “Levi is very resourceful, agile and he has an ability to figure things out and gets up to a lot of mischief. He has a blanket that he drags around and supplies endless entertainment for us and Lulu. Not a day has gone by that they do not make me laugh. As I work from home, all my clients make a fuss of Levi but he has quickly learnt all the expected ‘dog manners’ and is an important part of our family”, said Esme.

When Raef Browne of Ysterplaat decided that he wanted a family dog, he didn’t expect to find Dash, his new best friend at the SPCA. Dash, a one year old German Shepherd cross was admitted to the SPCA as a stray after being found outside Nandos in Retreat. Initially, he was very mischievous having had little or no training but under the guidance and training of the SPCA kennel staff and volunteers, he soon learned to behave and became very obedient whilst walking on a lead.

Said Raef: “On his first walk with us I couldn’t believe how well he behaved, which I attribute to the dedicated volunteers and staff of the SPCA… In the afternoon, when I come home on my bicycle, Dash comes running to the gate to greet me before I get near it because he knows the sound of my bicycle turning the corner. He has such a beautiful, expressive face and we love him dearly - even when he digs in the garden. To this day we are so glad that we popped in at the SPCA, and adopted rather than buying a dog from a breeder”, said Raef.

Home is where the heart is In July 2011, SPCA volunteer Anouk Spelbrink from Green Point adopted Stormie, a dark torti cat surrendered to the SPCA in May 2011.

Originally from the Netherlands, Anouk started volunteering at the SPCA Cattery because of her deep love of felines. When Anouk met Stormie at the SPCA’s ‘Kitty Palace’, they formed a loving bond and she knew Stormie belonged with her.

“Stormie likes to climb on and into everything and loves playing with the flowing water in the sink.

When we are cuddling her, she starts licking our foreheads and reorganises my boyfriend, Erwin’s hair, giving him a cow’s lick. We called her Stormie because of her dark coloured coat with a few lighter ginger spots, but we’ve kept her nickname, Little Monkey, which was affectionately given to her by the SPCA Cattery staff. When we eventually move back to the Netherlands, Stormie is coming with us and she will be a living memory of our time spent in Cape Town. She has made our temporary stay in S.A. feel like a real home”, said Anouk.

Please, leave your love where they will find it....

Your legacy can help to create a better future for animals

Please remember us through a bequest in your Will and let us know so that we can thank you and welcome you into our special Bequest Society.

Cape of Good Hope

The Cape of Good Hope SPCA Bequest Society For further information please contact: Bequest and Major Donor Officer Cape of Good Hope SPCA, P.O. Box 3, Plumstead 7801 Tel: 021-700 4150, Fax: 021-705 2127 bequestofficer@spca-ct.co.za www.spca-ct.co.za