Equestrian calls for mutual respect at Sandpan
“Every animal owner must ensure, to the best of their ability, that they are in control of their furry brood.”
On most afternoons, as the sun starts its trek to the west, Janie Coetzee of Fairleads can be seen taking a leisurely trot along the banks of the Sandpan, which lies between Country View and Boatlake Village.
In 1991, the Coetzee family relocated to one of the city’s picturesque agricultural holdings, where Janie established an equestrian centre featuring stables, an arena and an equine breeding programme.
Given their proximity to the pan, it has become a daily routine to take one of her 12 thoroughbreds for a gallop.
“Outings such as this are fantastic training for the horses,” she said.
“They build confidence and stimulate the animals. They need a regular change of scenery as much as we do. The outings further strengthen the bond between horse and rider.”
However, on July 25, three years of careful training, boosting assurance, and building a trusted relationship were fundamentally shattered.
“Closely following behind Kyalami, Benoni has the second highest horse population in Gauteng,” said Coetzee.
“Sandpan has become very popular among horse lovers, and children can often be seen riding their ponies. Unfortunately, pet owners who allow their dogs to explore the area without a leash threaten the safety of riders, equines and other users of the facility.”
On the day in question, Janie said she escaped serious injury when three unleashed dogs stormed her and her mare, Femme de ma vie (Girl of my Dreams).
“I am a confident rider, and Femme and I often enjoy the excursion. The incident still rattles us, and Femme now reacts to even the slightest bark. It is going to take a lot of work to get her to leave the property with confidence.”
The City of Ekurhuleni (CoE) regulation of parks and open spaces by-laws (council resolution: SR 622002 dated May 30, 2002) states: “In any park where dogs are allowed, such dogs must be on leashes. The owner of a dog or other animal or the person who has a dog or other animal in his custody or under his supervision shall take care that the dog or other animal does not attack or terrify any person, animal or bird in a park without reasonable cause.”
Standing outside Femme’s paddock, gently stroking the mare’s mane, Janie said a community is measured by the mutual respect its residents have for one another.
“Safe recreational facilities such as the area surrounding the Sandpan are scarce and should be open for everyone to enjoy,” she said.
“It is a lovely sight to see kids riding their ponies, dogs and their owners enjoying nature’s beauty and families making memories. We all need to respect each other to ensure that this space remains unchanged.
“The last thing we need is someone suffering injury due to callous behaviour, which could endanger the lives of community members and their furry companions.”
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