Dog rescue in Umzinto sparks call for support
Two dogs are now on the road to recovery after severe neglect.
Two severely neglected dogs rescued in Umzinto recently has once again highlighted the harsh reality of animal cruelty in the area.
The dogs were taken in by 4 Paws and a Tale Rescue, a non-profit organisation based in the Scottburgh/Umzinto region, founded by Nicky Koekemoer, and her late husband, Johnny.
One of the dogs, a tiny female now named Angel, is believed to be just six to seven months old. She was found in an extremely malnourished and weakened state, showing clear signs of prolonged neglect.
Angel was rescued on the same day as another dog, an older female named Arya. Arya’s condition was equally distressing – she was found with a wire wrapped around her neck and was later found to be pregnant, again.
According to Nicky, Arya has likely had “hundreds of puppies” in her lifetime under neglectful conditions.
Both dogs are now receiving urgent veterinary care and rehabilitation.
Although 4 Paws and a Tale Rescue has officially closed its doors to further intakes due to capacity constraints, Nicky said she could not ignore these two extreme cases.
The rescue’s roots date back to 2005, when Nicky and Johnny began feeding dogs in a nearby township. Faced with growing numbers of sick, injured, and abused animals, the couple eventually purchased a property, laying the foundation for what would become a sanctuary for dogs in need.
Johnny, a well-known figure in the Scottburgh community, died in 2022, leaving Nicky to continue their shared mission.
The rescue relies heavily on public support, including donations and proceeds from its charity shop, Tale End, in Scottburgh. She said her biggest expenses are food and veterinary care. The dogs are fed Jock, with 30kg used daily.
Cat food donations are also urgently needed, as the team feeds feral cats in Umzinto and Umkomaas.
Nicky also expressed gratitude to Nomads Golf for recently sponsoring beds and blankets for the sanctuary.
Unused dog kennels are welcome for township dogs.
Members of the public who would like to assist with rescues, adoptions, or donations can contact Nicky on 084 6265508.
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