Crown year for Salomé and Henrico at GRSPCA

GEORGE NEWS - They started their journey with the Garden Route SPCA (GRSPCA) 21 years ago on the same day in 2003.

Little did they know that this would mark the beginning of a remarkable two decade long commitment to animal welfare and community service.

GRSPCA inspectors Salomé Bruyns and Henrico Pypers started as cadet inspectors on 3 March and worked as kennel workers for the first year to gain experience with the animals.

From cleaning kennels to ensuring each animal was fed and cared for, they dedicated themselves to the well-being of their furry friends. After that year they were appointed as trainee inspectors, spending another year undergoing theoretical and practical training and passing the required exams to qualify as inspectors.

Bruyns furthered her qualifications by completing her senior inspector's training in 2008.

Reflecting on their early days, they recall a shared passion for animals as the driving force behind their journey.

Bruyns and Pypers both agree that their life at GRSPCA has been an experience that has not only developed their knowledge of animals, but also helped them to grow as people to be more understanding and compassionate while remaining strong individuals who can deal with conflict almost daily.

"Some people say they would like to work for the SPCA because they don't want to work with people, but the truth is, when you work at the SPCA you have to have great respect and empathy towards people as well," said Bruyns.

Despite numerous challenges, Bruyns and Pypers remain steadfast in their love for what they do. "Rescue is like the mafia, once you get in you will never get out," laughed Bruyns.

For them, the true joy lies in all the encounters with people from all walks of life, as well as the opportunity to explore every corner of George and surrounding areas.

Most importantly, they cherish the privilege of making a difference in the lives of animals, alleviating their suffering and offering them a chance at a better life.

Chases with axes and pangas

"I had a difficult start to my journey and I remember crying almost every day for the first year. But time and experience taught me to toughen up and to deal with conflict. As inspectors we've been bitten and even chased with axes and pangas - but nothing can deter us from doing our work. We love the people of George and the support they give us," said Bruyns.

"It warms my heart that so many people in George and the surrounding areas know who I am and reach out for help. It warms my heart to know that I have not only touched so many animals' lives, but the lives of humans as well. I want to encourage young people to get involved with animal welfare. If I, who was called Mother Teresa by my first manager, could do it, so can anyone."

Inspector Henrico Pypers