LOUIS TRICHARDT – The suffering of communities in Zimbabwe due to the political instability of that country as well as severe drought made headlines in newspapers on several occasions during the past year. Very little, however, has been said about the plight of the animals.

According to Mrs Lynne Murray, a Louis Trichardt resident, they recently visited Zimbabwe with some friends. "I felt particularly for the animals that are being orphaned by the millions, as the land claims take away people's homes and land, leaving the innocent animals to suffer too," she says.

A society has been set up in this country to alleviate the suffering of the animals, called the "wetnose society". Even though these dedicated men and women try their level best to save animal lives, the task is a mammoth one that needs assistance from other sources. According to Lynne she was especially perturbed to hear that amongst others thoroughbred horses had to be put down because there was simply no other alternative.

Back home she started to discuss the problem with community members as well as friends and family members in the cities. She was overwhelmed with the response, and received phone calls from animal lovers across the country offering assistance.

"The main cost is the vaccinations for the horses, should we bring them across the border and find good homes for them," explains Lynne. The cost for vaccination amounts to about R25 000 for every 14 horses. She already secured one sponsor, who donated R4 000 to the project. Offers in terms of transport and temporary as well as permanent accommodation for the horses have also been received.

"If anyone can assist, they must please contact Tracey at the Wetnose Society. The e-mail address is [email protected].