ANIMAL welfare organisations have united behind an Animal Rights March set to take place on the Durban beachfront this weekend.

The march, which is open to everyone, is titled ‘Walking The Walk For Those Who Can’t Talk’, and calls for critical changes to eThekwini Municiaplity’s by-laws.

According to organisers the DA has committed to tabling a proposal, drafted by the organisers, directly to the City council.

Shaun Janke, one of those involved, said the march aims to draw attention to highlight shortcomings in the current city animal by-laws.

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Janke, an inspector at SAFE Animal and Foster Network and a member of the Durban Animal Welfare Network (DAWN), explained the idea behind the march.

“I’ve been working in animal rescue for many years now and at a point last year I felt things needed to change. One of the areas that needs addressing is at a legislative level. The animal protection act was written in 1962 and hasn’t been updated since, while some of the eThekwini by-laws are also outdated. It is clear that neither one of them properly addresses animal welfare issues.

“If we can impact the legislation, get the laws updated, then we can change how animals are viewed. We sat and rewrote by-laws in what we believe will lift the voices of animals. As DAWN we’ve also approached well-respected animal rescue organisations who have come on board. We have rewritten some of the by-laws into a proposal we aim to submit to council with our recommendations,” he explained.

Among the changes Janke and others hope to see is sterilisation being made mandatory; all breeders must be licensed; all pets need to be microchipped; and the banning of fireworks in residential areas.

• The Animal Rights March is set for Sunday, July 19 (09:00 for 10:00) at Battery Beach, North Beach. Various organisations including Cats of Durban, SAFE and Stray Paws Animal Rescue and Welfare are involved. There will be a marching band to lead the march. Participants are encouraged to come dressed as their favourite animals. Those interested in joining the march can contact Niki Moore via WhatsApp on 071 932 8925 for details.

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