Horizon Academy schoolchildren meet SPCA puppies
"They come to learn the reason why the SPCA exists, the role we play in the community, and how we operate on a daily basis.
Barberton SPCA hosted schoolchildren from Horizon Academy on Friday. These Malalane pupils were excited to see and play with the animals.
According to Marlies Liebenberg, secretary of Barberton SPCA and Mpumalanga chairman, learners from various schools, church groups and organisations regularly visit their branch to find out more about animals.
“They come to learn the reason why the SPCA exists, the role we play in the community, and how we operate on a daily basis.
“Our main aim for educating children is to show them that an animal is not something they should fear. We allow them to touch them so that they know how they feel and to also alleviate their fear. We want them to know an animal can be their friend. They also get taught about the importance of making sure that their animals have fresh water to drink and food to eat. We also teach them about animal cruelty.”
The schoolchildren had the opportunity to tour the kennels.
“We show them the animals that do not have homes and those that stay with us while the owners are away. During the tour they get to see that the animals do not sit in cages all day. They have the opportunity to interact and play with people and one another,” said Liebenberg.
For those who want to adopt a dog, they can for R750. The money does not go to SPCA. It is used for sterilisation, inoculation and deworming. This fee is paid to the vet so that when someone takes a dog home, they take a healthy one.
