From humble beginnings as a novice inspector at the Dundee SPCA, Nazareth Appalsamy has risen through the ranks to be awarded the title of chief inspector, the highest distinction within the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA).

His journey spans 17 years in animal welfare, countless kilometres travelled across South Africa, and years spent confronting cruelty in some of the country’s most challenging environments.

According to Jacques Peacock of the NSPCA, Appalsamy currently leads the Farm Animal Protection Unit, one of the organisation’s largest operational units.

“From saleyards to remote farming communities, courtrooms to crisis scenes, his career has been defined by persistence, integrity and quiet resolve,” Peacock said.

Appalsamy now joins Chief Inspector Douglas Wolhuter, manager of the NSPCA’s Wildlife Protection Unit, as one of only two active chief inspectors in South Africa.

“This rank is not awarded for years served alone,” Peacock added. “It reflects proven field leadership, legal expertise, successful prosecutions, specialist skill and an unwavering commitment to animal protection under the most demanding conditions.”

Roots in Dundee

Former Dundee SPCA committee member Linda Milne recalls receiving Appalsamy’s application 17 years ago.

“I will never forget what he wrote in his covering letter: ‘If you hire me, you will never be sorry’,” Milne said. “And it was not an idle boast. After just 18 months in Dundee, he was head-hunted by the NSPCA.”

Milne said Appalsamy took on work few inspectors had tackled before.

“He went to abattoirs to ensure animals were humanely slaughtered, attended religious slaughter rituals, inspected animal sale yards and monitored livestock transport on public roads,” she said. “Farmers initially swore at him, but eventually became his friends.”

Despite having no formal background in animal care when he joined the Dundee SPCA, Milne said Appalsamy’s passion and integrity set him apart.

“Nothing escaped his eye, and every case was investigated thoroughly,” she said. “We are incredibly proud that our small SPCA helped produce a man of this calibre.”