Thursday 22 September marks World Rhino Day, and if you’ve ever been fortunate enough to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, you will have an even more deep-rooted passion to see the survive (and thrive).
Imagining a world where we might have to explain to our kids and the generations to come that rhinos no longer exist because of poaching is a truly devastating one.
How many rhinos have been poached in SA in 2022?
In reality, more than 250 rhinos have been poached in SA over the first six months of 2022. This figure is higher than over the same period last year – marking a major red flag in the uptake and tenacity of poachers.
Dr Guy Gyvie veterinary Affairs Manager at Hill’s Pet Nutrition says that for this very reason we all need to play our part in protecting our natural heritage.
As Heritage Day approaches, we can’t forget the animals who form such a big part of what makes South Africa the incredible and biodiverse country that it is.
Meet the Heroes kicking poachers to the curb
In July, Hill’s Pet Nutrition launched their ‘Making CONTACT campaign’; a five-part mini-series celebrating anti-poaching K9 units in South Africa’s nature reserves. This series shines a light on the amazing role that dogs are playing as well as the incredible handlers who are making a real difference in the fight against poaching. Where do the dogs get involved? Dr Fyvie shares:
“SANPARKS has revealed that 95% of poaching arrests are made with the help of tracker dogs. Hill’s Pet Nutrition is globally committed to helping to protect and conserve our planet and wildlife. In South Africa, the open grasslands, and their inhabitants, is where many of us go to keep our spirit alive and therefore needs to be conserved for generations to come.”
ALSO SEE:
You and your pooch are invited to the doggo high tea at The President Hotel!
Feature Image: Sophie Standing Textile Art/ @sophiestandingart on Instagram
