Protesters against animal abuse take to street

The marchers move along the Chapmans Peak side of the beach

Some 70 residents braved last weekend’s cold weather to take part in the Domestic Animal Rescue Group’s (DARG) awareness march.

The march on Sunday July 16 was in response to escalating cases of animal abuse and neglect in Hout Bay.

According to DARG facilitator Ryno Engelbrecht, in the past three months the number of reported cases of animal neglect have doubled.

In order to tackle the issue, Mr Engelbrecht has established ClaimsCo, an entity that that seeks to prosecute animal owners in the event of no charges being laid by policing agencies.

The marchers, who walked with placards near the beach, main shopping precinct and harbour area, were greeted by hooting motorists and passersby giving them a thumbs-up.

DARG’s Faustina Gardner said there was a great need to create awareness about animal abuse, particularly in Imizamo Yethu and Hangberg.

“We’ve dealt with many cases from these areas. The good is news is that the SPCA is now on board to establish an animal clinic in Hangberg.”

This facility could be become a reality as early as the next few months.

Mr Engelbrecht said DARG was hoping to host similar marches every month or two months to bring home the message that animal abuse would not be tolerated.