The SPCA Louis Trichardt once again joined forces with Pawtrility (PAWS Care Network) to host another massive castration and spaying weekend from 6 to 8 September, aiming to sterilise as many animals as possible. “After weeks of planning, relentless networking, and appealing to our kind community for assistance and donations, we can unequivocally say that the campaign was a triumphant success!” said the local SPCA’s Lesley Gaigher.

Lesley expressed profound gratitude to their sponsors. These included the management of Louis Trichardt High School, who kindly offered to house the team from Pawtrility at the hostel free of charge. Their fellow organiser, Dr Jamiela van der Walt, was accommodated at 139 on Munnik. “Thanks to Anri Fourie for ensuring that she received the best rest possible to lead her large team of vets, students, health technicians, and volunteers,” said Lesley.

Donsie van Dyk from Isis Décor was also there to help. “Never have we ever asked and not received! The tables and cutlery needed were supplied free of charge,” said Lesley.

Special thanks also went to Laurie Bannatyne from Talisman, who assisted with portable toilets for the influx of people expected at the kennels along Vondeling Road over the past weekend. “Again, not a cent was expected in return!” Lesley stated.

The Mpheni Civic Centre offered the use of their tents at an excellent rate. These were used as a makeshift examination room and surgery ward, while the Legacy Animal Clinic offered the SPCA all the necessary medicines at cost price.

“Bennedett Aggenbach, Herdre, and Mauluma Boerdery kept everyone fed and hydrated. Thank you for the water, doughnuts, and platters. And while we’re thanking people for food and drinks, Antjie Brennan from Meowthful gave the team their coffee kick-start and breakfast fuel every morning, and our hospitality dream team (Anri Fourie and Adri Viviers) sorted out all the other meals,” said Lesley. She also thanked the husbands who, instead of watching rugby at home, took charge of the braai on Saturday night!

“We greatly appreciate all the monetary donations we received too. Thanks to this, we were able to buy medication and meals or offer a sponsored spay to someone unable to make a contribution,” said Lesley.

Lesley expressed great admiration for the SPCA Louis Trichardt’s staff and committee, their families, and friends. “If only you could bottle the enthusiasm, dedication, and energy this group of people have! I stand in awe of what has been achieved and how our SPCA family is able to inspire and assist each other when the going gets tough. No, it’s not been easy … But worthy causes rarely are,” said Lesley.

Praise also went to the local SPCA’s well-known Inspector Lawrence Khodobo. “Not only did he make the arrangements for the tents we needed, but he assisted with putting these up on Thursday. He somehow juggled his superhero duties on Friday by rescuing a cow stuck in a sewer while also managing the start of the Steri Drive. Lawrence’s knowledge and skills are invaluable. Not only can he take charge at the pre-op station, but he can also teach the students the art of animal handling and compassion for the owners. For him, being part of the SPCA movement is more than just a job – it is a calling, and he serves our community with passion and poise. Thank you for the long hours, the overtime, being on call, and your wholehearted commitment to the cause!” said Lesley.

The entire weekend would not have been possible without the Pawtrility team. “Dr Jamiela and her team of veterinarians, students, health technicians, and volunteers – we don’t know how to fully express how grateful we are that you took the time to help us make a difference in Louis Trichardt and the surrounding areas. The effects of successfully sterilising 99 animals over the weekend are immeasurable,” said Lesley.

In conclusion, Lesley also thanked all the pet owners who recognised the importance of bringing their animals to be sterilised. “We always say that these campaigns would not be possible without the vets, the teams, the staff, the sponsors, etc., and it’s definitely true. But all the pieces of the puzzle could be in place and still unravel without the animals to operate on. We appreciate your time, patience, and commitment to change – helping us to end the cycle of unwanted animals, cruelty, and neglect,” said Lesley.