Animal rescuer saves their souls
dent when she rescued a dog used in fighting games from a township. Because of its aggressive nature, it attacked her.
Even the risks of not knowing what she’s up against haven’t stopped her from going into some very dangerous areas. She explains the importance of educating dog owners and offering services such as de-worming, vaccinations and spaying in communities where owners can’t afford to take their pets to the vet.
It takes a special kind of person to undertake such a huge responsibility, but Smit seems to take it in her stride: “I cry a lot because of the abuse I see. However, I get to smile again when I am able to save another soul.”
Soul Survivors’ procedure for adopting a puppy:
Home checklist:
Volunteers look at the relationship between owners and current pets. Animals should be living inside the home with the family. Do dogs have a dog bed and blanket? Is the property secure? Owners to show up-to-date vaccination books.
Integration:
The animal gets a chance to socialise with other dogs in the family.
How comfortable is the dog around the family and other pets?
Adoption fees:
Soul Survivors KZN charges R800 for adoption fees, which includes vaccinations, sterilisation and one month’s supply of dog food.
How you can help:
Visit Tracy Mclelland Smit’s Facebook page for more info on adopting a pet or volunteering (KZN). Donations are also welcome: Hillcrest Vet Standard Bank 250828030 Branch code: 045726 Ref: T SMIT/38967 DARG animal rescue: 021 790 0383 or www.darg.org.za (Cape Town) Ark Animal Shelter: www.arkanimalcentre.co.za (Joburg) National Council of SPCAs: http:// nspca.co.za/ (countrywide)