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Schnauzer Puppy Mill
Scotty Valadao - Friends of the Dog
Puppy Farms: A Heartbreaking Reality in South Africa
Puppy farms are a tragic reality in South Africa, and I had the privilege of working with 15 incredibly damaged Schnauzers from the Roodewal Kennels in 2016. These were mostly Category 3 Schnauzers—dogs who were terrified of people and life in general, severely traumatised by their experience in such a horrific environment.
I was brought on board to help after working with Pippa, one of the dogs rescued from Roodewal. In a very short time, we made remarkable progress in addressing her fear-based behaviour. It was a testament to how resilient these dogs can be when given the chance.
The conditions the dogs were living in—while breeders profited off their suffering—are beyond words. It sickens me to think of how these poor animals were treated. But it is only by spreading their story, and raising awareness, that we can make a difference.
Even when purchasing a purebred dog, it is vital to understand that we, as consumers, share responsibility. We must inspect the breeder’s premises, do thorough research, and be vigilant. Supporting puppy farms only perpetuates the cycle of abuse. So please, share this message. The more people who know, the more we can change.
I’d also like to pay tribute to Pippa, the brave little Schnauzer who was so instrumental in bringing me into this cause. Sadly, she passed away recently after an emergency surgery her body could not withstand. I am grateful that her final months were spent in a loving family, where she blossomed in confidence and finally learned to trust and be loved. Rest in peace, sweet Pippa.
The Roodewal Kennels Investigation
In June 2015, a warrant was obtained to enter the Roodewal Kennels in Ermelo, Mpumalanga, after reports surfaced from the Schnauzer Friends South Africa community about abuse, and sick or dying puppies. What followed was the uncovering of a massive puppy farming operation, with a central figure at the top doing the marketing.
Thanks to the collective efforts of Schnauzer Friends South Africa, the SPCA, SAPS, Ermelo Animal Rescue, and Woodrock Animal Rescue, over 320 breeding Schnauzers were rescued from these horrific conditions. They were sterilized, medically treated, and eventually rehomed.
The breeders marketed their dogs with impressive pedigree names and claimed KUSA or Canineza registration, but the reality was far from the truth. This is a stark reminder that we must always look deeper—don’t just trust the labels.
As a community, we need to continue being the voice for the voiceless, speaking out against animal abuse wherever it exists. If you’re considering purchasing a dog, please fully investigate the breeder’s practices. Better yet, consider adopting from a shelter or breed rescue. These dogs deserve a second chance at life.
Together, we can end the suffering and stop the cycle of abuse.
Puppy farms are a tragic reality in South Africa, and I had the privilege of working with 15 incredibly damaged Schnauzers from the Roodewal Kennels in 2016. These were mostly Category 3 Schnauzers—dogs who were terrified of people and life in general, severely traumatised by their experience in such a horrific environment.
I was brought on board to help after working with Pippa, one of the dogs rescued from Roodewal. In a very short time, we made remarkable progress in addressing her fear-based behaviour. It was a testament to how resilient these dogs can be when given the chance.
The conditions the dogs were living in—while breeders profited off their suffering—are beyond words. It sickens me to think of how these poor animals were treated. But it is only by spreading their story, and raising awareness, that we can make a difference.
Even when purchasing a purebred dog, it is vital to understand that we, as consumers, share responsibility. We must inspect the breeder’s premises, do thorough research, and be vigilant. Supporting puppy farms only perpetuates the cycle of abuse. So please, share this message. The more people who know, the more we can change.
I’d also like to pay tribute to Pippa, the brave little Schnauzer who was so instrumental in bringing me into this cause. Sadly, she passed away recently after an emergency surgery her body could not withstand. I am grateful that her final months were spent in a loving family, where she blossomed in confidence and finally learned to trust and be loved. Rest in peace, sweet Pippa.
The Roodewal Kennels Investigation
In June 2015, a warrant was obtained to enter the Roodewal Kennels in Ermelo, Mpumalanga, after reports surfaced from the Schnauzer Friends South Africa community about abuse, and sick or dying puppies. What followed was the uncovering of a massive puppy farming operation, with a central figure at the top doing the marketing.
Thanks to the collective efforts of Schnauzer Friends South Africa, the SPCA, SAPS, Ermelo Animal Rescue, and Woodrock Animal Rescue, over 320 breeding Schnauzers were rescued from these horrific conditions. They were sterilized, medically treated, and eventually rehomed.
The breeders marketed their dogs with impressive pedigree names and claimed KUSA or Canineza registration, but the reality was far from the truth. This is a stark reminder that we must always look deeper—don’t just trust the labels.
As a community, we need to continue being the voice for the voiceless, speaking out against animal abuse wherever it exists. If you’re considering purchasing a dog, please fully investigate the breeder’s practices. Better yet, consider adopting from a shelter or breed rescue. These dogs deserve a second chance at life.
Together, we can end the suffering and stop the cycle of abuse.
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