The staff of the Cape of Good Hope SPCA are devastated by the loss of Dr Natheem Jacobs, who was fatally stabbed outside of his home in Garlandale, Athlone, during a robbery in the early hours of this morning.
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The Cape of Good Hope released a statement describing Dr Jacobs as a committed welfare veterinarian whose heart for animals was beyond comprehension.
The profound loss is being felt throughout the entire organisation.
Dr Jacobs completed his community service as a CCS veterinarian at the Wingfield Animal Health Centre and the Cape of Good Hope SPCA, working under the supervision of SPCA Board member Dr Ayoub Banderker, and had recently signed a contract for permanent employment with the SPCA.
“An animal hero has fallen, and we are all heartbroken, but we are honouring Dr Jacobs in the best way we know how—by continuing to help the animals he loved so much,” said Mqabuko Moyo Ndukwana, Cape of Good Hope SPCA CEO.
“He was a shining example of what it means to truly care for animals, and his loss is not only ours; it is a loss for animal welfare at large. He will be deeply and sorely missed by all of us,” he continued.
“I really enjoyed supervising and working with Dr Jacobs, and I was so proud of him as one of the new generation of Muslim vets,” said Dr Banderker, a member of the Cape of Good Hope SPCA.
The SPCA extends its heartfelt condolences to his wife Imaan and his parents, Mrs Zulykha and Mr Ridwaan Jacobs, and hopes that they find comfort in knowing that his dedication to his work and compassion for animals will live on in the SPCA’s hearts forever.
“He will be remembered through every animal that comes through our doors, and his dedication to their welfare will keep reminding us why we can never give up the fight against animal cruelty,” said the organisation.
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Picture: Cape of Good Hope SPCA / Facebook
