02. Who are we?
April 2009
The sun shone on the biggest ever uMngeni SPCA / Hill’s Township Dog Show, with nearly three hundred dogs registered for the annual event, which took place in Mpophomeni Township (Howick, KZN) on Sunday 19 April. Happy, a gorgeous golden cross-breed, owned by Nonhlanhla Ndlovu won Best in Show, and Reserve Best in Show was won by King, a regal looking honey coloured dog owned by Sbongiseni Mkhize.
“The weather was hot and sunny resulting in an excellent attendance both in terms of dogs and spectators,” said founder and organiser Adrienne Olivier. “We had 286 dogs registered for the clinic and the show, with a fairly even distribution of puppies and older dogs, most of which were in excellent condition. Over 60 volunteers and the SPCA staff worked really hard to ensure that everything went according to plan.”
Unlike traditional dog shows – where the entrants arrive preened and perfect – the contenders at the uMngeni SPCA / Hill’s Township Dog Show first attended a clinic for a thorough health check, were then de-wormed, vaccinated against rabies, dipped and given a new collar and lead before strutting into the show ring.
The judges were looking for healthy, well-cared for dogs that had a visibly strong bond with the owner. No dog went home with empty paws as every entrant received Hill’s pet food, a dog bowl, a warm winter blanket, a copy of Animal Talk magazine and pet care information from uMngeni SPCA in Zulu. Happy, the Best in Show, and King – the Reserve Best in Show – each went home with big bags of Hill’s pet food and a kennel.
The uMngeni SPCA has been active in the various underprivileged areas around Howick for many years. This was the sixth uMngeni SPCA / Hill’s Township Dog Show. The event changes location each year, and has been held in Mpophomeni, Lidgetton and Mafakathini.
“Since the SPCA / Hill’s Township Dog Show was first held there has been a real improvement in pets’ health, which made it even harder for the judges to choose the winner this time,” said Jabulani Mshengu, Field Officer for the uMngeni SPCA.
Adrienne Olivier added, “The Show encourages owners to have a positive sense of pride in their animals. It also provides the SPCA with a great opportunity to give out pet care information, encourage sterilisation, and do basic veterinary care. All in all it has been a great success and certainly our best ever show!”
For more information contact the uMngeni SPCA on 033 330 4557.