Jason Hayman embarked on a brave endeavour at his Kalbaskraal residence on Friday in an act of unwavering dedication to animal welfare. Despite the low temperatures, he chose to spend 60 hours chained to a kennel, with only a five-metre chain for mobility.
Hayman’s noble goal is to raise awareness about the widespread problem of animal abuse and shed light on the challenges that nonprofit organisations that prioritise animal well-being face.
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In conversation with News24, Hayman passionately expressed his motivations for undertaking this extraordinary feat amidst freezing weather conditions. He emphasised the daily hardships endured by animals, who yearn for love, warmth, sustenance and the reassuring presence of caring individuals.
The distressing reality of abused, stray and unwanted animals being incessantly delivered to shelters due to people’s inability to allocate time, resources and patience deeply saddens Hayman.
‘These animals seek love, warmth, food and someone to show them they are needed. It’s heartbreaking to see the amount of abused, stray and unwanted animals brought to shelters every day because people don’t have the time, money, or patience to care for them,’ Hayman told News24.
Initially scheduled for the previous year, this initiative faced setbacks caused by insufficient funding and unfavourable weather conditions. However, the adversities experienced throughout the current year, particularly the devastating weather events, inspired Hayman to proceed with the challenge. Undertaking it during the summer months would not have had the same impact.
By subjecting himself to severe weather conditions, he seeks to intensify public awareness of the cause.
Precisely at 6pm on Friday, Hayman commenced his self-imposed captivity, sharing the kennel with five stray dogs. Recounting the chilling night, he described the relentless wind and sporadic raindrops, making it an unforgettable experience. Throughout the day, while still tethered to the kennel, Hayman occupies himself by spending quality time with the animals and attending to administrative tasks for the nonprofit organisation.
To mitigate the inconvenience of indoor facilities being out of reach, he arranged for a portable toilet.
Hayman’s dedication to his cause knows no bounds. He eats, sleeps, plays and works outdoors, endeavouring to convey to these innocent creatures that there are compassionate individuals willing to fight for their well-being and rights. Animals, affectionate companions to humanity, serve as irrefutable evidence of the adage that animals are indeed man’s best friend. At Chocolate Angels Animal Rescue, which he has managed for three years, Hayman provides a safe haven for abandoned dogs, cats, wild birds and snakes.
His current mission revolves around raising funds for essential necessities such as sterilisation, food, blankets, animal medication and equipment. Animals rely on humans for solace, especially when they roam the streets, vulnerable to abuse and neglect. Hayman believes it is our responsibility to care for them if we truly desire their companionship. Their unwavering loyalty makes them invaluable furry friends, rendering their mistreatment all the more distressing.
In recent weeks, numerous stray animals have been brought to Hayman’s shelter, with expectations of more arrivals due to the inclement weather experienced in the region. As Hayman embarked on his journey, approximately 15 stray animals surrounded him, providing a tangible reminder of why he initiated this endeavour. The support and enthusiasm he received from his social media followers, totalling over 1 400 individuals, resulted in an outpouring of donations across the province. Blankets, food, toys and kennels have been generously contributed to the shelter, with Capetonians rallying behind Hayman’s cause.
‘We’re doing it for the animals,’ Hayman declared, expressing his excitement about the initiative. Recognising that these vulnerable creatures have no other advocates, he feels compelled to champion their struggles, joining the few who are willing to take action.
Meanwhile, Belinda Abraham, the spokesperson for the Cape of Good Hope SPCA, reported that more than 200 animals had to be rescued throughout the province due to the recent adverse weather conditions. Many animals lacked adequate shelter to shield them from the elements, while others were at risk in waterlogged areas. The SPCA responded to distress calls, even rescuing a group of wandering pigs in an informal settlement.
The organisation anticipates receiving numerous additional requests for assistance and expressed gratitude to the vigilant community members who serve as their eyes and ears.
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Picture: Jason Hayman / Facebook