Animals in need a world away

Posted by petblog

on June 12, 2008M at 10:55 am

South Africa is crawling its way out of an uncharacteristic series of race riots. A worldwide food shortage coupled with a flood of immigrants escaping impending disaster in Zimbabwe caused tensions uncommon of a country characterized by peace for more than a decade.

One of the unexpected victims of the riots: animals.

I spent a month in South Africa last year meeting my future in-laws. It’s a beautiful country working to overcome a complicated past. Of course there was so much to learn and observe. South Africans are loving people who are quick to forgive, and that gentleness is evident in their treatment of animals. They’re a part of nearly everyone’s life, and lots of folks have multiple pets. Even the poorest of the poor set aside enough resources to have pets. That’s why I know so many people’s hearts are breaking about the loss of their animals. Some pet owners had to flee their homes; others lost their animals in the melee. But that gentle spirit is already shining through. Rescuers are helping reunite families with their pets. Here’s hoping calm returns quickly to the country and to the families living there.

- Staff Writer Carrie Coppernoll

These photos are ones I took on my trip last year. From the top: a friend with his dog in George, a litter of Daschund puppies in Cape Town, a dog showing off at a flea market in Johannesburg, a boy and his family dog in Coffee Bay, a family dog roaming in Coffee Bay, and children gathering firewood with their dog in Coffee Bay.