MAY /JUNE 2025
THE GREYTON POST
09
Action Speaks Louder Than Words
Greyton Animal Welfare Society (GAWS): Office 071 105 0366 | WhatsApp Emergency 064 984 0675 EARS Donkey Sanctuary (horses, donkeys): 082 660 6714 / 082 509 6870 Greyton Farm Animal Sanctuary (cows, sheep, pigs): 082 558 7752
Did you call law enforcement? Did you take a video or photo? Did you notice the colour and size of the animal? Are you able to guess the approximate age of the boy? Can you identify him in any way—jeans, purple sweater, cap? There are more than 400 horses roaming our Valley, many of whom are used as taxis without their owners’ knowledge. Without a thorough description and preferably video evidence, it’s impossible to act.
Toni Younghusband
“Why doesn’t welfare stop all these people from having so many dogs and horses?” Animal ownership is subject to municipal bylaws which can only be enforced by officers of the law. Animal welfare organisations do their best to encourage animal owners to sterilise their animals, but we cannot force them to do so. Concerned citizens can support these organisations by sponsoring sterilisations and by encouraging friends and acquaintances to have their animals sterilised too. It is important to note that bylaws restrict the number of animals individual households may own. This applies to all animal owners, regardless of how well or otherwise an animal is cared for— so before pointing fingers... Animal welfare organisations are generally severely underfunded and understaffed. Most of the work is done by volunteers. The more people willing to step up to assist, rather than to voice opinions, the more effective these organisations will be. For assistance with animal welfare issues: Law Enforcement – TWK Operational Control Centre: 080 021 4730
A nimal rescue organisations are frequently criticised for not taking immediate and drastic action when someone reports hearing about or witnessing a distressing act of cruelty. It’s important, however, to understand and appreciate the steps that must be taken before action—legal or otherwise—can be taken to apprehend an animal abuser.
Here are some real-life examples:
“My neighbour’s gardener told me there’s a cow being abused in his village but he doesn’t want to be identified. Animal welfare must do something about these incidents.” Without identifying the time, place, nature of the abuse, identity of the abuser and physical evidence (the injured animal, or a video or photo), the welfare organisation cannot ask law enforcement authorities to act. Hearsay is not permissible in court. For prosecution to take place, a body of evidence must be placed before the court, including photographic or video material and signed witness affidavits. “There was a young boy on a horse galloping down Main Road. Why aren’t you doing anything?” If you witnessed this incident and it was distressing, did you try to stop the boy?
Photo credit: Greyton Photography
Welcome to Overstory
Nestled beneath the mountain, just 10km from the charming village of Greyton, Overstory offers a tranquil escape on a 12 hectare property surrounded by a working fruit farm. This peaceful haven is a place where natural beauty and stillness come together inviting you to unwind and reconnect with nature.
For more information whatsapp Jo 083 327 6502 or email josedgwick@twk.co.za.
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