The medium is the message is truly the case for the local Grahamstown SPCA. Managed by Linda Nel, who has spent the last two years devoted specifically to the voluntary protection of animals in townships around Jeffreys Bay, the local community of Fingo and its surroundings become of particularly special to her.
The medium is the message is truly the case for the local Grahamstown SPCA. Managed by Linda Nel, who has spent the last two years devoted specifically to the voluntary protection of animals in townships around Jeffreys Bay, the local community of Fingo and its surroundings become of particularly special to her.
Despite the demanding pace of her work, Nel glows with the pride of a selfless and dedicated women as she talks about her plans for the local animals.
“We intend to do pro-active and reactive work,” says Nel cheerfully, making conversation over the yelps of impounded pets.
The SPCA has recently devised an outreach programme which involves going door to door in the township, tending to pets free of charge and teaching residents about animal care.
Together with Maloli Dingana, who was born and raised at the SPCA, they aim to educate people and spread the service by word of mouth.
“That’s the pro-active part,” says Nel, quickly adding that already they have had great response from other residents in the community with sick animals.
It seems that the vested interest of the local SPCA to communicate face-to-face with township locals has sparked an overwhelming positive reaction.
“Going out and talking to owners, giving their pets vactionations and treating the animals for mange has had a significant effect,” says Nel, “we even get calls from residents we haven’t yet visited who have heard about our work from friends and other locals.”
Engaging with local residents about the importance of animal welfare remains their biggest challenge and Nel hopes that the relationship endures and that the animals of Grahamstown continue to get the care they so desperately need.
