what is your motivation

Darryl (husband) went down to put blankets on Mashatu and Gandalph - the pair of horses at home. Because it is raining and cold (climate change = mid-winter rain in KwaZulu Natal - completely unseasonal). Poor horses we think, as we cuddle under our duvets. Feeling sorry for them. We have not seen them all day and left them a pile of hay when we went to work this morning. So we also feel bad about leaving them. So he took them each an apple, and went to dress them in their winter woolies. And all they were interested in was getting to the apples in their pockets. And we have to think - do we make blankets, and give apples to make ourselves feel better.

There is a school of thought that says the over use of horse blankets results in the horses woolly winter coats - presuming it has not been clipped, is compromised as a result of the blanket breaking the little hairs. Also, that blankets are only really necessary when temperatures reach below zero.

I know this, and yet, I still feel guilty when I sit comfortably under my duvet. Still guilty of treating animals like they are human beings. When will I learn that they are fellow souls rather than creatures of the same species. So much more to learn from them if I can feel this daily, not rationally, but at a heart level. May be as a result of fear.

Today two penguins, Aero and Cherub were flown to Cape Town to SANCCOB from our facility in Durban. So that they could be released back into the ocean. We rescued them after they washed up on the beach. And have become really attached to them. The big wild ocean beckons them back, and we would much rather wrap them in cotton wool and secure their comfort forever. Wonder what they would prefer. Do wish them well. And trust that their comfort is always secured. And hope that humans all over ensure this by changing their daily environmental impact by changing their behaviour.

Comments

In memory of my mother

My mum passed when I was 23. I never really had the opportunity to come back home to a respectful relationship with her after my teenage rebellious tribulations and assaults on her goodwill. So this blog is to honour and thank her for her contribution to my love for nature. She was an avid bird watcher and had dreams of travelling through the bush. I have many memories of her being fascinated by animals on our weekend getaways to the Kruger National Park. My first memory of her was her riding a horse called Thunder. That is a beautiful memory and the name of the horse is as mystical and awe inspiring as her impact on who I am in relationship with animals. She was fearless. And always confident that all would be well. She had faith in my animal relationships always. As a very young child I was given the task on many occasions to hand rear orphan wildlife and pets. She never micro managed the process but would offer helpful insight that came naturally to her. The animals in our home

On his retirement. A tribute to a legend

Veterinarian & human extraordinaire. 50 years of true service to the animal world, the animal people, and to his animal-loving family. Four siblings all who care significantly for animals as a result of the way we were raised. To respect life. Because that is who our father his. Our father is more than a vet. He is a compassionate man. A vet who took his oath to care for animals to the greatest level, inspiring those close and around him to do the same. Caring so deeply. Working so hard. Ensuring that he always did his best. He has such depth and wisdom. He has always had a following of people in his life who he wisely guides. His generosity is boundless. He has inspired his children way more than can be imagined. We are pretty sure there are not many people who are so fortunate to have this example of humble love to follow. We are equally unsure whether we can truly honour his example by duplicating his consistently magnanimous actions. We have incredible memories

Reflections and projections

When they judge or throw stones (the people) - grace makes us the blank screen or the still water onto which they can see themselves and take personal account for their actions. When we train animals can we be that clear. So as to wisely be and act rather than contest and fight for what we want🥰

Touching Animal Souls

Search This Blog