KIMBERLEY – The Department of Agriculture, Environmental Affairs, Rural Development and Land Reform, yesterday on November 8, 2023, held its annual spay and vaccination campaign in Roodepan, Kimberley. Led by the dedicated Veterinary Services team, this crucial initiative aimed to provide rabies vaccinations, spaying, and castration services for dogs and cats at the Love Life Youth Centre.
Following this, the mobile clinic relocated to Ivory Park Block A, where they offered vaccinations exclusively. While the campaign was executed efficiently and proficiently, there was one major shortcoming – the lack of effective communication with the community.
Regrettably, The Kimberley Prospector, a local news outlet, found no public notices or announcements about the event, leaving many pet owners unaware of the services being provided. Recognizing the importance of such initiatives, we have reached out to the responsible department, urging them to include The Kimberley Prospector on their notification list. This collaboration would enable us to effectively inform and educate the community about these significant annual services.
Moreover, we advocate for the department to expand the frequency of these campaigns and extend their reach to more communities in Kimberley. The prevalence of abandoned pets and strays in our city is a pressing issue that demands immediate attention. By conducting more of these campaigns, the department can contribute significantly towards creating a more compassionate environment for our four-legged companions.
In addition to providing healthcare services, the department needs to continue advocating for responsible pet ownership. Educating pet owners about the proper care and treatment of their animals is of utmost importance. The community of Kimberley is in great need of pet education programs that emphasize the dos and don’ts of taking care of pets.
In conclusion, while the Department of Agriculture, Environmental Affairs, Rural Development and Land Reform’s annual spay and vaccination campaign was commendable in its execution, the lack of effective communication with the community proved to be a significant drawback.
As The Kimberley Prospector, we sincerely request the department’s collaboration in keeping us informed, enabling us to properly disseminate information about these invaluable services. Moreover, we urge the department to increase the frequency and range of these campaigns, addressing the prevalent issue of abandoned pets and strays in our community.
Furthermore, promoting responsible pet ownership and providing pet education programs are essential steps towards creating a more compassionate and responsible society for our beloved companions.