Save Campaign - Furever Pet Rescue

Don't you just love it when a plan comes together

If you're looking to spend an exhilarating Sunday, that will fill you with that warm and fuzzy feeling we all crave, then sign up as a volunteer for the next 'Furever Pet Rescue SAVE Clinic'. SAVE began with a pilot clinic in 2015. There is now a three-year plan in place (2016-2018) with clinics held quarterly in rotation in 4 areas: Shayamoya, Groutville, Shakaskraal and Etete (see https://www.fureverpetrescue.com for future dates and more info).

Some 15 local residents gathered at the Thembeni Community Hall in Groutville for a day of volunteering in support of animal welfare and education for the local township community. From the opening bell at 09h00, to closing time at 13h00, over 140 dogs and one very angry cat (probably because it was delivered in a plastic fertilizer bag) were taken through various forms of treatments at 4 stations.

Starting at a very busy registration desk (that recorded all the owners and pets details and provided owners with a log book for all subsequent treatments), the community arrived in their droves. All with the same question, "how much does it cost " Fortunately, due to the tireless fundraising and events that Furever Pet Rescue conducts, the answer is always the same, "ALL the treatments are FREE for residents in genuine need."

From Registration, pets and owners moved onto the Vaccination station, where qualified veterinarian staff gave 5-in-1 vaccinations (generously donated by Virbac) and/or rabies vaccinations to an array of dogs in a variety of conditions. Approximately 140 vaccinations were administered. Some of the bitches brought to the SAVE clinic were either pregnant or feeding litters. These township dogs are liable to have 2 litters per year with an average litter of 4 surviving puppies. Some of the dogs present with other conditions (damaged limbs for example) which are also treated where possible.

Aloe Vet generously donates the sterilisation costs assumed for the first 8 sterilisations. Thereafter, the sterilisations are done at a charitable rate and Furever Pet Rescue must rely on fundraising efforts and the generosity of others to cover these costs.

The final SAVE station is the dip and spray station where all dogs are either given Frontline treatment (generously donated by Frontline Plus) for ticks and fleas or they are dipped for mange. With the latter, owners are sent home with an ongoing course of treatment to ensure the mange is treated properly. Any items donated by the community (leads, collars, dishes, blankets, food, toys, etc.) are also distributed at this point.

Should you want to join this compassionate army of volunteers or simply want to donate whatever you can, please contact Cheryl Herda (073509-4294 or cherylherda@gmail.com) and become another community hero. Our township animals are in such tragic condition and they need YOU to assist in making the difference.