E-NEWSLETTER

23 APRIL 2010

EDUCATION - LAPDESK HANDOVER

We are delighted that on Friday 16 April, 120 lapdesks (valued at approximately R10 200) were handed over to the Rise and Shine Learning Centre in Alexandra for use by their 4-6 year old learners. Mrs Denise Williams (Senior Administrator) and Dr Jan Moll (Veterinarian) handed over the lapdesks to Mrs Bongiwe Mbewe (School Principal) on behalf of the sponsors, Eli Lilly and Elanco.

The Learning Centre has 150 children ranging from 9 months to 6 years old and there is not a single desk. It is hoped that the lapdesks will help to enhance the learning experience of the children which is providing a very good educational foundation. Dave Thorpe and Michelle Moll from the N SPCA were accompanied by Angela Jennett and Candice Segal, welfare educators for Sandton SPCA. Brenda Nel who had identified the needy school on behalf of the N SPCA's Education Unit also accompanied us, and was the official photographer.

Eli Lilly also provided cool drinks and snacks for the children who clearly thought this was really great and who, during the proceedings, were taught an interactive vibey song about animals.

 

WILDLIFE UNIT

The Wildlife Unit is undertaking inspections in the Western Cape this week. Facilities to be inspected include zoos, rehabilitation centres, sanctuaries, elephant-back safari operations and reptile facilities. This forms part of the Wildlife Unit's proactive monitoring function to ensure the wellbeing of captive wildlife .

 

The poetry of the earth is never dead. ~John Keats

CARTE BLANCHE CONSUMER

As you know, the SPCA movement opposes the trade of animals over the Internet. Carte Blanche's consumer programme on Thursday 15 April featured this issue and highlighted current scams. If you missed the programme, the transcript is on www.carteblanche.co.za .

 

"DOGS WANTED" ADVERTISEMENTS

We have been alerted to advertisements in publications from people who want to buy adult dogs of particular large breeds. We are aware and advise that the dogs are indeed sourced to be sold on as security dogs. We have evidence that the dogs are sent to other parts of Africa. The whole operation is legal which is why we reiterate once again: - please do not give pets away.

 

Once an animal has been handed over, it is too late to seek redress especially if there is a signed "receipt" for an amount of money given to the owner for the dog. We have been asked to "look into" the matter. We have. The operations will stop when people stop handing over pets. Things are not always as they seem and individuals who want to take an animal are not always truthful.

 

ART WORK

This is a strange request to our readers but in the past you have always come up with innovative and helpful ideas. We have received some original oil paintings as part of a deceased estate. Experts we have consulted have come up with no information on the artist Dieu Donne but tell us the works are competent yet unknown. They are oil paintings of South African scenes plus two watercolours of South African flowers. All framed. If one of you can assist us to sell them or if you have an idea that would assist us to sell them, please let us know. Many thanks

Until next time

With best regards

Chris Kuch