Pedal to help save a bulldog
BRA was formed with the main aim to rescue, rehabilitate and re-home abused and neglected bulldogs
NEWLY formed animal charity Bulldog Rescue Angels (BRA) needs you.
BRA was formed by bulldog activists Lenell Hattingh, Jolanda Voster, Chantel van der Merwe and Alex Long in June with the main aim to rescue, rehabilitate and re-home abused and neglected bulldogs and associated breeds across South Africa.
Over the past five years, bulldogs and similar breeds have become the pet of choice for many people across the globe – many of whom are not fully educated and aware of the maintenance and hygiene requirements such breeds require on a daily basis.
Jolanda Voster said bulldogs in particular were prone to many health-related issues that could not be established during puppy stages. “We all agree that bulldog puppies are among the cutest baby animals around. People are taken aback by those wrinkles and the cute faces but many do not look beyond the ‘aw’ factor.
“Being a brachycephalic breed, bulldogs have breathing issues which can lead to heatstroke, among other things. The ears as well as folds found on the nose and other regions require regular anti-bacterial cleaning to prevent yeast infections and other associated infections. Furthermore, these breeds can ring up quite substantial veterinary bills,” she said.
A big problem is that English and French bulldogs can be quite expensive, and greedy breeders hike up the prices of these dogs not considering the health issues, bloodlines and pedigree requirements.
As such, many “backyard” breeders have emerged to take advantage of the market and introduce dogs that are not fit to be in society, often leading to high vet bills, heartbreak for the family and ultimately a poor quality of life for the dog. BRA commits to seeking justice for bully breeds by bringing such breeders and people to book, as well as rehabilitating abused and neglected dogs.
The organisation urges the public to assist them by reporting abused bully breeds to them as well as sending anonymous tip-offs about puppy-mills and illegal breeders.
One such dog, Bruno, is lucky to have had the assistance of BRA. He is one of the success stories for the organisation and according to them, there are many dogs like Bruno who need rescuing, rehabilitation and re-homing.
This year, the organisation will raise awareness by participating in the 947 Cycle Challenge. They are seeking more cyclists to join their team to raise even more awareness about the Bulldog Rescue Angels.
Those individuals who would like to join the team or assist in any way, from funds to supplies, may contact BRA on bulldogrescueangels@gmail.com or visit their Facebook page Bulldog Rescue Angels.
BRA is a registered non-profit institution. Its NPC number is 2016/048760/08.
