Animal artwork raises funds

PUPILS from Westville Senior Primary School painted various art pieces of dogs for the Tribute to Service Dogs fundraiser at the Westville Mall from 18 to 21 September.

Janine Kyle, the marketing manager at Westville Mall, stated that the aim was to create awareness of the amazing work that the dogs do on a daily basis and the important role they play in keeping the community safe. “They are the unsung heroes whose loyalty, bravery and spirit shine though in their work. It is wonderful to see the schoolchildren paying tribute through their talent,” said Janine. Gaye Upton’s Art School also displayed art during the fundraiser.

Inspector Jacques Fourie of Metro Police visited the display with his dog Fancy and was moved by the tribute. He lost his faithful partner against crime, Kongo, last year. A picture of Kongo was used in both the posters and banners for the fundraisers as he was one of the heroes the mall and its patrons paid tribute to with this initiative.

More than R6 000 was raised from the sale of the children’s art as well as donations from the customers at the mall. The money will be used to purchase vests for the dog unit and for plaques for the Police Dog Garden of Remembrance Wall at the Kloof and Highway SPCA. Janine thanked Westville Senior Primary school, Sybil Evans, Gaye Upton, all the talented artists, the generous public and parents for making the initiative possible. A special thanks was also given to Inspector Jacques Fourie and Fancy.