AT only 16 years old, Carlerien Visagie knows she wants – to dedicate her life to Zululand’s abused, neglected and surrendered animals.
Whenever she has free time after school and over weekends, the Dynamic Kidz pupil volunteers at the Richards Bay SPCA where she plays with the homeless animals, feeds the cats and puts blankets in the strays’ kennels, among other jobs.
‘I help wherever there is a need,’ says Carlerien.
‘After I finish school, I will continue volunteering for the SPCA and get qualifications to become an SPCA inspector.
‘I look at how Shelly (Richards Bay SPCA inspector) treats and helps them every day and it is truly inspiring.
‘We need more people who care so much about animals.’
However, the job can also get hard at times.
‘Sometimes it is really sad seeing such loving pets hurt, lost or left behind, but knowing you are actively helping to save them makes the work all the more rewarding.
‘I would definitely encourage other teens to volunteer at the welfare.’
At home, Carlerien also enjoys time with a sizeable group of pets.
‘We have four dogs, one cat and three birds! My whole family has always loved animals.’
