Show some love for our four-legged friends

SHOWING a little love for KZN’s furry friends, South Coast-based NPO 4 Paws and a Tale Rescue will host a Valentine’s Day dinner on Saturday, February 12.

The annual event, which is a major fund-raiser, has been on hold for the past two years because of the pandemic.

The Independent on Saturday featured a story late last year about puppy Thomas who was rescued by the organisation after being found badly injured in the middle of the road.

Described as a “sweet little guy”, he captured everyone’s hearts when he was taken to the vet and treated for two broken legs.

This week 4 Paws founder Nicky Koekemoer said one of Thomas’s legs had not healed properly.

“The leg is now shorter and his ankle and knee are very stiff,” she said, confirming the leg would have to be amputated to allow for more freedom of movement.

More than 40 dogs are cared for at the centre, while Koekemoer and her husband feed another 130 dogs and 45 cats in nearby areas in Umzinto.

She said they were “delighted to be able to host our Valentine’s Day event this year” and encouraged people to show their love for animals by supporting it.

“With so many people facing financial difficulties in the past two years and the lack of fund-raising opportunities, the number of neglected animals has risen, while funds and donations have dwindled. We’re hoping that with community support for the Valentine’s Day dinner, we can turn a corner and provide the necessary love and care for our four-legged friends.”

The 2022 Valentine’s Day dinner is set to be a spectacular event catered by the executive chef and manager of the Fish Eagle Café, Morne van Zyl.

The Fish Eagle Café is based at the Crocworld Conservation Centre and Van Zyl said the event would include a three-course dinner, starting with deep-fried basa with a chilli-naise sauce, a creamy mussel pot and an array of fresh salads, while the mains will be roast meats, a Cajun chicken curry and freshlyprepared vegetables. Dessert will be the café’s famous Peppermint Crisp fridge tart, a fresh fruit duo, and ice cream and a Bar One sauce.

The 6pm for 6.30pm event will take place on the open-air deck with fabulous sea views, and will include some fun spot prizes and an auction.

Van Zyl said this week: “We also know how long it’s been since couples have been spoilt with a Valentine’s dinner, so we’re ensuring this one will be extra special.”

The cost is R180 a person, tickets available from The Tale End shop in Scott Street, Umzinto, and booking is essential. The time is 6 for 6.30pm.

For more information, call Nicky on 084 626 5508 or email info@4pawsandatalerescue.co.za