KNYSNA NEWS - "Knysna Animal Welfare (KAWS) would like to thank the organisers of the Jaguar Simola Hillclimb for once again giving us the opportunity to raise awareness and exposure and the opportunity to raise funds that will assist us to help those in need.
"This year we will be presenting 'Nero the pit bull' as part of our campaign to make the Hillclimb spectators and public aware that not all “strong breed” dogs are dangerous.
"We don’t get bad dogs, we get bad owners, who train their dogs' bad behaviour. Sadly, this becomes a label these breeds must live with.
"Thanks to Knysna’s Queen of the Hill Tanya Watts, our society will be joining her in a coordinated effort to raise funds. Nero’s partner for the weekend will be Big Red – Tanya’s clearly marked red Ford F100 truck with huge money donation boxes close by.
"Together, Nero the huge pit bull mascot and Big Red will make appearances at various destinations around town to encourage R5 donations from as many people as possible.
"Their next appearances will be on Thursday and Friday, 3 and 4 May, at the Simola Hillclimb Fan Fest area in Hedge Street. With all-day activities on the go in the area ending with the street parades, Nero and Big Red will be on display all day waiting for your kind your donation.
"Then on Saturday and Sunday, 5 and 6 May, the duo will be at the Hillclimb itself. Parked in the Gasoline Alley area for most of the day, they will emerge at lunchtime on both days to stretch their legs up the hill and drum up some vocal support with Tanya behind the wheel.
"This year our general manager Annelien Kitley, who has never had the opportunity to experience so much adrenaline, will be joining Tanya in Big Red for the drive up the hill – it will be a first for her and for our society, and we trust that you will cheer them on.
"KAWS is encouraging all who encounter Nero and Big Red to pop a minimum of R5 into the donation boxes or the collection tins that will be around on the grounds.
"Daily, our society deals with injured, abused, abandoned, and donated animals that all need treatment and care, which is obviously very costly.
"We are a nonprofit organisation that can only operate thanks to the generosity of the public. Naturally, our biggest goal is to find perfect loving homes for the unwanted animals that are surrendered to us – please talk to us about adopting a dog or cat before buying from a breeder or pet shop.
"So, be on the lookout for Nero and Big Red, and our awesome volunteers who will be shaking tins – then stop, open your hearts and wallets, and pop your R5 coin (or more) into the tin or box!"
Pawfully yours The KAWS team.
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