Using Animal Care to Promote Empathy in Children

On May 26, 27, and 28, my friend Tengetile Freemantle and I had to get out of bed way before the sun came up to help James Tsabedze (Vusumnotfo) and Simon Mamba (SAWS) visit Mhlambanyoni, Ntfwalamkhona, Mkhubane, and Mkhiweni dip tanks.

This was the first round of community education at the dip tanks, to explain about the basics of dog care, the June 21 clinic, and to answer questions. 

The Swaziland Ministry of Agriculture Veterinary Officers Gezile Sikhondze and Khansyisile Dlamini, whose job it is to oversee cattle dipping, were very supportive and helpful. Their involvement gave people confidence that this project would benefit their dogs, which was important when people asked “will my dogs die because of the operation?”.

The plan was to carry out education on this first round of dates, and to register on June 2, 3 and 4 and again June 16, 17 and 18 - however at each dip tank, people asked to register so already 20% of the 200 slots have been taken.  

Other men said they are interested but "they have to discuss it with their wives first!"  The Vet officers are now reporting that after the May 26-28 sessions, people are coming to their houses to ask to register.  We are very confident that all of the 200 slots will be taken after the June 2 - 4 sessions. People really want the veterinary services!

As a boarding student at Waterford Kamhlaba and a member of Community Service AWARE, I helped with the Spay/Neuter Clinic that SAWS ran just outside the capital city in 2013. Because I grew up in the rural area, I wanted the same opportunity to be brought to community people. 

June 21 is fast approaching and we really appreciate your support in making this project a reality.