Algoa FM presenters share their puppy love on air from March 18 to March 23, which is National Puppy Day.
“All the presenters on Algoa FM are pet lovers and we are using International Puppy Day to educate listeners all about puppies – where to adopt them, how to care for them, exercising them and how to train them,” says Algoa FM programme manager Mio Khondleka.
National Puppy Day on March 23 originated in the United States to raise awareness of the poor conditions on many puppy farms, where dogs are bred purely for profit.
Selected puppy shelters in Algoa Country will be allowed to talk about puppy adoption and to share photos on Facebook of puppies ready for a new home.
“The puppy shelters we have selected have very strict adoption requirements, which include visits to the home where they will be living, as well as follow-up visits and calls.
“The message is ‘adopt, don’t shop,” says Carol-Anne Kelleher of Algoa Cares.
Local vets, a behavioural specialist and other experts on puppy care will be interviewed during the week.
“We will also be talking to a psychologist about the benefits of having a pet and how they can change your life,” says Kelleher.
Their interviews will be made available through the Algoa FM website for those who missed them.
“Our campaign will encourage listeners to have their pets sterilised and to support organisations which sterilise animals in disadvantaged communities.
Listeners will be encouraged to share their puppy pictures on Algoa FM social media pages, and animal shelters in Algoa Country will share photos of puppies available for adoption.
Algoa FM presenter Charlton Tobias (Charlie T) with his Yorkie Benji.
