Unathi Shologu
COMBATTING cruelty to animals is rather like trying to empty the sea with a cup, says veteran animal activist Patsy Wagner, who has been working for the Animal Anti-Cruelty League for three decades.
The league shelters abandoned animals, promotes an efficient adoption programme and brings animal cruelty cases to the attention of prosecuting authorities.
Community member Ralph Coltnan had special praise for Wagner.
He says she "is an amazing woman who goes well out of her way to rescue and care for stray animals, and we (community members) have seen her love them as if they were her own".
Wagner began working with animals in Port Elizabeth 30 years ago when she relocated from Cape Town.
Recalling her early days with the animals, she said: "I used to work alongside another woman and we would do all our work from the boot of my car. I wasn't getting paid, but the animals came first. If I wasn't going to do it, then who would?"
While working with the animals in the Missionvale area, Wagner noticed that children were taking from the food prepared for the animals. She then collaborated with the Elma Hayes Golden Fountain to feed the children.
Over the years, the league has grown and it now has fully equipped mobile clinics to visit various underprivileged areas. They also address schools and clubs on the challenges of treating animals correctly.
"I am happy to do something for my people – this includes everyone I have come into contact with. The more we do, the more we have to do. It feels like trying to empty the sea with a cup."
Who to contact
Physical Address : Cleary Park, 5 Harry Trichardt Crescent, Port Elizabeth
Postal Address: PO Box 5617, Walmer, 6065
Web Address : http://www.aacl.org.za Tel: (041)456-1776 Fax: (041)456-1776.