Couple sponsor dog in rhino plan
THE battle to curb rhino poaching cannot be won unless businesses and individuals join in the government’s efforts, says Dr Hannes Slabbert, a senior manager with Denel’s canine division, Mechem.
He made the remarks at a meeting at the Mechem K9 training ground in Pretoria with a couple in business, Tiaan and Sally du Plessis, who have financed the purchase and training of a tracker dog that is to help fight poaching.
“This is not only about the money, but giving back to the community and to South Africa. We are standing here with individuals who are trying to make a dif ference and that is quite important,” Slabbert said.
“If we had more people like this, the world would be a better place. We are not out there seeking people to donate funds so that we purchase dogs for anti-poaching, but Denel appreciates gestures when people come in to join the fight.”
Slabbert said that through their chemical supply company, Chemstrat Industrial, the couple had made repeated financial contributions to initiatives to fight poaching.
It was a proud moment when the couple were introduced to the Denel tracker dogs.
Sally du Plessis said her family’s intervention stemmed from the realisation that the wild animals were under siege.
“I am quite passionate about wild animals,” she said.
“I realised there was a need for intervention, with all the overpopulation and civilisation taking over the animals’ natural habitat.
“With the rhinos, I can’t explain it – it’s just the passion we have to try to help them. If I could, I would go out in the field to protect them. The only way I can protect the rhinos is by donating money so that we have the kind of skills necessary.”
She had lost faith in the government efforts.
“I don’t think there is much political will and there isn’t much money put into this devastating situation. This is why we, as private companies, have to get involved and do what the government should be doing.”
Tiaan du Plessis said if there weren’t more interventions, poachers could wipe out the rhino. “Through the donations, we want to make sure our children can see the rhinos – not just on pictures on the wall. More and more people must contribute. That would be better for our society.”
In the next two weeks, the couple’s sponsored tracker dog will be deployed in an undisclosed game reserve in Mpumalanga.
Dogs trained by Mechem are being used at several game parks. Others are being trained to detect landmines, drugs and smuggled contraband. – ANA