Untitled Document
About Us
1967 was the year in which animal welfare was started by its first Inspector, a Mr Morris of Rheenendal. All animals in need of care were collected and brought to his home, where he caringly tended to them. His area stretched from Sedgefield to Knysna, and later incorporated the Harkerville, Plettenberg Bay, and Crags areas. This happened, because the individual animal welfare societies of the time were unable to continue with the work they were doing. All the funds, which they collectively had in hand at the time, were given to KAWS with the proviso that the extra areas would become part of the welfare portfolio of KAWS. |
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I expect to pass through life but once. If therefore, there be any kindness I can show, or any good thing I can do to any fellow being, let me do it now, and not defer or neglect it, as I shall not pass this way again.
- William Penn |
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Knysna's first private vet Dr. EM Robinson as a young man in his laboratory at Onderstepoort. He later became an Inspector and was also the first President of KAWS
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Dr. Eric Robinson or “Prof Robbie” as he was affectionately known, was the next Inspector. It was after his retirement in 1960 at the age of 69, that he became the first private veterinary practitioner in Knysna. In 1977 he gave up his private practice and devoted his time and expertise to KAWS. Dr. Robinson was a founder member of Onderstepoort and the first President of KAWS. During his time as Inspector a small kennel area was built near the Knysna sewage farm – the site of the present facility. The unit consisted of 4 kennels, and a primitive cattery.
Dr Andre Reitz followed Doc Robbie as Chairman and Ms Isobel Cuthbert took on the position of Inspector. She was involved with the Society for many years prior to this appointment and after Dr Reitz’s term of office came to an end, she was elected to the chair. Dr Reitz then became the second President of the Society. Ms Cuthbert remained in office for approximately 20 years. The Committee decided to change the name of the Society to the Knysna/Plett Animal Welfare Society during this time in order to reflect the designated area of operation. (Plettenberg Bay started their own society (PAWS) in 2002, and what was known as KPAWS once again became KAWS – Knysna Animal Welfare Society.)
Ms Mary Charlton, a most involved and long-standing member of the committee became the next Chairman after Ms Cuthbert’s resignation. In 1992 the Chair was taken by Ms Gail le Lean, followed by Ms Merrilyn Thompson in 1994. After her resignation, Ms Di Butlin (Doc Robbie’s grand-daughter) took office. Ms Julie Sprong was the next Chairperson followed by Ms. Cindy Smailes. Anne Schaaff was the next Chairlady, followed by Zoe Morkel. Presently the 2008 Chairman is Karel du Toit. |
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With much dedication over the years, the various Inspectors involved in KAWS have made enormous improvements to the facility. The old kennels were eventually closed and new kennels were built on the existing stand. Inspector Wendy Pattison worked for KAWS for a number of years, before handing over to Senior Inspector Wendy Abott in 2002 Wendy and her team continue with their incredible task, and among the many changes and improvements that the years have brought, the humble cattery is now a place of pride and comfort for those in need of love and rehabilitation. |
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KAWS still continues to run the dipping programmes instituted by Wendy Pattison and still covers most of the areas specified in the formation of KAWS.
They also continue to work with the State Veterinarians during various outbreaks of disease, vaccinating for Rabies, Newcastle disease etc.
A visit to KAWS is a most reassuring experience, as any member of the public would be able to see how their contributions have enabled the staff, inspectorate, and Chairpersons to turn money into love, dedication and hope.
Indeed a good “KAWS”
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