1. food and drink
2. desserts and baking

This fortnightly
Magazine is
absolutely
FREE!
ESTABLISHED 2009
FEATURES
Pg 1,2,5,7 & 8 - Looking For Leto
Pg 3 - HAKA Game Park
In the Kitchen
Word Search
Classifieds
Restaurant Guide
What’s On?
4
4
5
5
6
Help Yourself!
Take one home.
REGULARS
Animal Welfare 6
Handy Numbers 7
ENJOY!
Issue 123 - February - Mid Month 2015
The Zimtrader
COMING SOON
to BULAWAYO!
To advertise in The
Zimtrader, call
492666, 492669,
or email
zimtrader@wildimaginings.net
Touchstone
Computer Systems
established 1989
Payroll Bureau
We offer efficient and confidential
payroll services for small, medium
and large companies, run on the
Payday payroll system.
Looking for Leto
Clear pay slips and useful reports.
Call Sue Green on 777832/3/4.
A TLAS
EARTH MOVERS and PLANT HIRE
Look no further!
For Hire:
www.atlasearthmovers.com;
1 Northolt Drive, Bluff Hill, Harare
331789; 0772 423 652; 0772 404 403; atlas@ecoweb.co.zw
Business Hours: Monday to Friday 7:30am to 5pm; Saturday - 8am to 11am
By Rosie Mitchell
Sounds like a movie title, doesn't it?
Instead, it is our 2015 Refrain to date!
Zimtrader's regular readers will already
be fully aware of our missing dog Leto –
since our first two issues for 2015
carried front page ads about her. Call
this a publisher's perk! You may also
have seen some of the other publicity
we've spread far and wide in our
desperate quest to find her. We've left
no stone unturned, and are trying every
possible means to locate her from flyers
and posters to newspaper articles, from
animal communicators to physical
searches by night and by day, from
utilising all current resources on the
internet in this country to spread the
word and her photos, from door to
door enquiries to letterbox drops! In
the past six weeks, we've followed up an
average two exhaustive and exhausting
potential sightings every day.
Missing since 1 Jan 2015: phone 0772 212 730
I
CONTACT DETAILS
FOR BOOKINGS AND ENQUIRIES
Email:
bookings@spurwing.co.zw
Kim@yoafrica.com
Skype: spurwing.island
Kim.hacker
0777 516 171 - Spurwing Direct
0772 611 554 - Kim
Revisiting Haka Game Park
These, after a while, along with the whole sad
Story page 4
scenario, have become a little soul destroying,
nibbling away at already broken hearts, as
inevitably, each phone call, each Facebook
posting, raises one's hopes. Then after sometimes
several hours, they are once again dashed. Either,
the reportted dog is nowhere to be found by the
time one gets there – which always involved
dropping everything and rushing – or, it is a
different dog. Then there are the calls about dead
dogs spotted, fitting her description, another heart-breaking and traumatic experience –
establishing whether or not the poor animal is ours.
to page 2...
Looking for Leto.....
finding Zim’s Animal Rescue Warriors!
This is just one of the fates that can befall lost dogs, along with illness, injury, starvation, dehydration. Every possibility flies around one's
mind a great deal of the time. Ownership of dogs and cats as domestic pets or working animals, or both, dates back to very ancient
times and is almost universally practised globally (unless your religion bars it, as some do). Whether you keep the animal purely to
nurture and for company, or it is a working animal, taking on the responsibility of owning a pet brings much joy and results in a mutually
beneficial and rewarding relationship between animal and owner. To be a responsible pet owner also leads to significant costs –
vaccinations, sterilisations, vet's bills when sick or injured, correct nutrition to keep the pet healthy, so it is not to be undertaken lightly. It
is a many-year commitment and arrangements must be made for your pets to be cared for in your absence, whether by staff, friends, or
in kennels. While cats are very self-sufficient pets, dogs are decidedly not, and in addition to nurturing and affection they will need
plenty of regular exercise, and that requires a human! Though domestic dogs are all genetically descended from the wolf, over the
millennia the wild dog has been bred out of them and in the process they have become utterly reliant on humans for their well-being.
Lost dogs who become feral, do eke out an existence of sorts, as they reconnect with some of their ancient instincts, but it is a fragile,
dangerous life they lead, on the periphery of human settlement, scavenging from dustbins and rubbish dumps, and catching rats or
birds if their hunting instincts are still intact, always at risk of human abuse or of being hit by a car. Losing our dog has made me so
much more painfully aware of both the extent and the tragic plight of the stray dog population. Once you are looking for a specific
missing dog, you see just how many dogs are out there, wandering, often in terrible condition after months or years of living like this.
You are also made aware of the sterling efforts with very limited resources of the good people out there who are doing their best to
alleviate this suffering, on a day to day basis.
In 2013, one of SPCA's stalwarts launched a Facebook Group called Zim Pets Lost and Found. This has proved an invaluable resource
both for those seeking lost animals, those reporting them, and as a means to locate and rescue additional stray animals along the way,
taking them to safety, and the possibility of a new home.
During the course of our own search, several pets and owners have been re-united through the efforts of those involved in this Facebook
Group, managed and monitored by various vets and representatives of the SPCA, Friend Foundation, and Veterinarians for Animal
Welfare Zimbabwe (VAWZ). Members are a large cross section of mostly pet-owning, concerned public who care about animal welfare.
Some have been through the same horrible experience as ours, losing loved pets, and now assist others to find theirs. Lots of members
do much more, though, than help search for lost pets and report their whereabouts if they cannot catch them (often, stray dogs, now
very fearful, run away and disappear in the blink of an eye!) A good deal of very effective animal rescue is facilitated through this Page.
We've been involved in the rescue of seven stray dogs ourselves, while looking for our own! One was sadly put down, with a horribly
smashed leg from being hit by a car - preferable to leaving it dying slowly and in pain on the streets; one was returned to its nearby
owner; the other five await re-homing at Friend Foundation and SPCA.
Meantime, the network of people in this Group actively rescue animals on an almost daily basis as they move around in their normal
routines, and if unable to pick up a dog themselves, will phone one of the other members to do so. They also report on dead animals
seen. It is appalling how many drivers hit an animal and just drive on. If the animal is injured but alive, all the driver need do is drop it
at the nearest vet or phone VAWZ on 0778 431 528 - with no obligation thereafter. It speaks to the shocking lack of compassion for
animals in our country, that so many are hit, and just left.
Looking for Leto has made me so aware of just how many stray dogs are out there. As a result of our campaign to find her, we receive
two or three reports daily of sightings of dogs fitting her description, which we follow up without exception. In the course of our searches,
we have seen countless dogs, often skin and bone, often badly injured or sick, wandering homeless. They lead a horrible life,
scavenging from dustbins, sleeping in thickets or storm drains or abandoned shelters, and being harassed by people. As awful as it is
still not knowing where Leto is, I have seen first-hand, the goodness and kindness of scores of people previously not known to me,
devoted to alleviating the widespread suffering of animals - and they are wonderfully supportive in our distress. I am truly touched by the
kindness of strangers, many of whom are fast becoming friends! The Facebook Group is a never-ending hive of online activity. The
regular success stories of pet owners and pets reunited give me hope, and the encouragement, support, tips and leads given by the
many who are active in this community space, are invaluable. In addition, our flyers and posters are leading to lots of tips to follow up.
The animal rescue system in Harare is something of an extremely under-funded yet well-oiled machine and communication network,
involving scores of
concerned volunteers. This
Facebook page has become
an integral, highly
functional component of this
support system and amateur
the
detective outfit! If you have
lost a pet or you spot a stray
dog, cat or any other
101 Richwell Ave
All kinds of cheeses, cream, butter, plain
animal, if you can, snap a
off Sherwood Dve,
and Greek yoghurt, ghee, fresh water and
quick photo with your
Meyrick Park
phone, jump onto this page
sea fish, sea food, coffee and much more
306982 up to 6,
if you have internet access,
join the Group (a very fast
Open Mon to Fri,
process) and report what
8.30 to 4.30,
you saw and where. In
Sat 8.30 to 12.30
addition, or if you don't
cman@cheeseman1.com
have internet, phone
Check out our Deli
Veterinarians for Animal
Specials Fridge
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for some great deals!
on 0778 431 528, even
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when the animal is sadly
dead.
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2
to page 5...
Revisiting Haka Game Park
Some of Haka’s residents - giraffe, wildebeest
By Jacqueline Collins
One of the joys of having our Irish friend come to visit was that we
once again ventured out into areas that we had not been to for quite
some time. Surprisingly, we discovered that Haka Game Park has
been given quite a facelift recently and we spent a delightful morning
there. When I was waxing lyrical to many of my friends afterwards,
not many actually knew where Haka Game Park is. Take the turning
to Cleveland Dam and the entrance is just on the left, it is fairly clearly
marked if you are looking out for it. It is slightly more expensive than
going to Cleveland Dam but it is definitely worth it, especially if you
have some visitors and you want to show them some wild animals
while they are in Harare. It is absolutely pristine, like many of the
resorts in the country, just waiting patiently until things come right in
the country. In fact best go there now while you have the place
practically to yourself, who knows in a few years' time it could be
absolutely packed with tourists. In fact I am a bit cross with myself that
I have not yet managed to visit Cuba, apparently after the ending of
the Trade Embargo with America, people are saying that if you want to
visit Cuba it is best to go immediately before it is totally spoilt.
Haka’s picnic areas have all been renovated and are very private with
excellent facilities for Braais. We were impressed with the ingenious
chairs made out of logs of wood. After all the rains there was a
profusion of wild flowers, including the flame lilies and lilac fox glove
type flowers with so many varieties of wild grasses. It is also perfect for
bird watching and we saw the very vibrant red bishop bird and the
yellow rumped widow bird. It is a perfect place for a walk, we just
loved walking for about two hours, past all the wildlife, such as Eland,
Wildebeest and Zebra. The giraffe was particularly interesting to watch
with its loping walk, apparently like the camels, who are known as the
Ships of the Desert. My friend and I decided that this would be a
perfect place for a wedding celebration as the scenery is just fantastic,
you would never think that you are in town. In fact, you can actually
stay overnight at Haka, and we all thought it would be a super place
to camp out for the night, under the stars when it is a full moon.
PERMANENT INK
NAME TAGS
Immaculate private Braai areas
ESTABLISHED 2009
The Zimtrader
COMING SOON
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No More Sewing
or Ironing
Testing out the innovative chairs made out of logs
zimtrader@wildimaginings.net
PER STAMP
Even kids can do it
3
Non Toxic Stamp
250 - 300 stamps
Rell pads available
Lorna Tilbury
0712 430 807
0772 255 138
tilbury@zol.co.zw
In the Kitchen with Jacqueline Collins
Chocolate Pecan Nuts
I often find that when you have to cook for someone on a special diet, it can
be beneficial in that you can come up with a new recipe that everyone enjoys.
Since our friend from Ireland was on a very restricted diet, it had me racking
my brains to think of something special for him for dessert. I remembered that
I used to make melted chocolate over Rice Crispies and wondered if this
would work with pecan nuts. It is recommended that a handful of Pecan nuts
should be included as part of a healthy diet, although admittedly it does not
mention anything about them being covered in chocolate. Pecan nuts are very
rich sources of several important B-complex groups of vitamins such as
riboflavin, niacin, thiamin, pantothenic acid, vitamin B-6, and folates. The
nuts are also rich source of minerals like manganese, potassium, calcium,
iron, magnesium and zinc, so at least they are better for you than Rice
Crispies! Also, this week's recipe is perfect for when you are asked to bring
something sweet but the electricity goes off just about the same time as you
wanted to cook something. We really enjoyed these on our picnic at Haka,
with our Coffee. It would
be good to make them the
night before using paper
muffin cups to drop the
chocolate pecans in.
I also use the chocolate
mixture for the ubiquitous
Ice Cream and chocolate
sauce which is my major
weakness, developed
when the twins were
babies, the ultimate
comfort food.
Flowering Tree Appreciation Corner
Opulent Purple Flowers
These opulent purple flowers have inspired many beautiful
names such as the Princess Flower and the Purple Glory Bush.
There was quite a bit of debate among my gardening friends
on Facebook as to whether this small tree was a Tibouchina
or a Lasiandra. It seems on Google that Lasiandra is just an
older name for Tibouchina, but my experts assure me that
this is a Lasiandra because it has slightly furry leaves. Also the
flower itself seems to just throb with such an intense lucid
purple, which is more mesmerising than the similar variety
out at the moment. The other variety comes in both pink and
purple but both tend to be slightly raggedy and weedy. So to
differentiate, I think these must be the Tibouchina Urvilleana.
Ingredients
l 150 grammes of
l
l
l
l
pecan nuts, (Food
Lovers’ Market has
a very good supply
of these.)
100 grammes of
milk or dark
chocolate
3 tablespoons of
milk
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon
maple syrup
Wild Flowers
Method
l It is possible to have the
l
pecan nuts whole, but if
you want them smaller, just place in a liquidiser and whizz for a few seconds
so that they are roughly chopped. Place the pecan nuts in a baking tray and
cook in oven for about 15 minutes at 180 degrees. Alternatively, if no power,
Profusion of wild flowers
you can dry roast them in a big frying pan, stirring from time to time.
opulent purple flowers
at Haka Game Park
Put about 20 cms of water in a small saucepan. Place a bowl over the top of
the water, it should fit snugly, resting on the saucepan. Alternatively you
could use a double boiler if you have one.
Find the words hidden in the grid of letters
Break up the chocolate and put into the bowl. Add milk, butter and maple syrup.
Solution see page 7
Heat the water, which will heat up the saucepan by steaming it. Stir the chocolate mixture
X
D
B
F
W
N E K E Y B O A R D X E
until it melts.
X
B
J
M
Y
O O L T E B X D I K X Z
Pour the chocolate mixture over the nuts and ensure that all the nuts are covered by
W I O P M O F N T U L L E B W O C
stirring together.
E T W W A S R Q G S K E Y A L Y F
Put 1
U E R S R S M L B A I S L Q K R I
tablespoon
of the nut
4
P D E O I A E A B A W H R U E D A
mixture into
H K T A M B O U R I N E W N K K C
9 paper
O W A R B B T D P A D J C N X U I
muffin
N V N O A W O I Y R C H O G I Q D
cases.
I I I V S T C N O L H A T R Z T O
Leave in
U O R R S C I C E O N H S K Z F L
fridge to set
M L A X O G E S R Y C H I M E S E
for a few
G A C L H R D N I K U O Z U O B M
hours.
Musical Word Search
l
l
l
l
l
H Y O B R I T Y D R U G Y D R U H
4
ZIMTRADER CLASSIFIED SMALLS
ARTS and CRAFTS
THE SCRAP STOP
Scrapbooking Lessons & Supplies. Beginners
to Advanced & Everything in-between!
Phone: 0714 304 664; 0772 412 750
Email: scrapstop@springs.co.zw
thescrapstop@gmail.com
LODGES
SPECIALIST SERVICES
Victoria Falls Rest Camp and Lodges
Corner Parkway and West drive
Tel: 013 40509 -11
Cell: 0773 496 695
Email: reservations@restcamp.co.zw
www.vicfallsrestcamp.com
Household Electrical Repairs Installations & Services
We repair, install, and service: Washing Machines,
Dishwashers, Built in Stoves and Ovens, Cookers,
Microwaves, Fridges, Aircons, Electric gates, Intercoms,
Electric Fencing and Boreholes Genuine spares for most
brands like Defy, Samsung, LG, Electrolux, etc. For
professional service please contact Takas: 0772 264 184,
0733 248 823, yoserviceman@gmail.com
RESTAURANTS
AUTO SERVICES
Turbo Solutions Africa (Pvt Ltd)
“Turbocharger Sales and Service”
Unit 1, 3 Borgward Road, Msasa, Harare
446587 / 0712 889 540 / 0773 195 474
TSAturbo@mweb.co.zw
www.turbosolutionsafrica.com
BUILDING and MAINTENANCE
Inner Living
Staircases, Decks, Railings, Balustrades
(including Stainless Steel), All Gates and Burglar
Bars, Pool Fences and more. Call / Whatsapp
Dave on 0775 490 418 or email
dave@innerliving.co.zw for a site visit.
Shop – 16 Kew Drive, Highlands, Harare.
PAINT ‘N PAINTER
Does your home or business require painting?
Quick efficient and personalised painting
service, 25 years experience.
Tel 302355 or 0772 340 917
email: sales@paintandpainter.co.zw
Theo’s House of Coffee
Pest Exterminators: The Pest Control
Specialists, for guaranteed control of all
pests!! Call for a competitive quote,
prompt & efficient service:
0772-600-213
pestex@zol.co.zw
Open 7 days a week 8 - 5.
Visit 167 Enterprise Road, Chisipite for a
unique shopping experience many
specialised shops, 9 - 4.30 Sat, 9 - 12.30
RESEARCH SERVICE
Dissertations/Thesis: Need help with your research for
Academic level - Post and Undergraduate students or
Commercial level research contact Business Qualitative Research specialists for
Academic Level - Post and undergraduate students.
Commercial – Company researches.
Call – 0716247845 Email: rufazz@yahoo.co.uk
Rorry Interiors
For: Upholstery, Sofa Loose Covers, Roman
Blinds, Curtaining, Bedcovers, Lampshades,
Duvets, Cushions, Furniture Re-polishing, Awnings
and More, Call Norman Muzanenhamo on
0775 911 948; 0733 259 988;
email: normanmuza@gmail.com
SPECIALIST SERVICES
Absolutely Water
Shelving
Water Purification Systems
Shop/Supermarket Shelving
Call: 496490/ 0772233173
Contact: Rod Bellringer;
0776 401 747 / 301257
Email: purewater@zol.co.zw
Reach YOUR Market
by advertising in
To advertise in
Zimtrader Classifieds
costs just $8 per ad;
$16 per month
3 months pre-paid
$40, get 1 ad free!
6 months pre-paid,
$80, get 2 ads free!
12 months pre-paid,
$152, get 5 ads free!
BUSSINESS TRAINING
Small Medium Enterprises (SME) Training Services
Upcoming Programme for February – March 2015, Get
your business started with one day course focussing on
business basics: Business Plans; Business Proposals;
introduction to Business Management, Start-up
Strategies; Methods of Funding; Marketing Plans.
Register Now! Contact: 0772233173/498062
Email:creadmin@ecoweb.co.zw
CLEANING SERVICES
KeepItClean
Treat your home a professional carpet and
upholstery cleaning service. We make DIRT
disappear!!!! Call for a competitive quote,
prompt and efficient service:
0772-600-213
keepitclean@zol.co.zw
JEWELLERY
Sharon’s Jewels
All your jewellery requirements
Pearl Re-stringing
0772 345 729
Fortnightly Lifestyle and
Conservation Magazine;
Launched 2009, going strong;
Loyal, enthusiastic and
growing reader base.
2000 FREE magazines
widely distributed across
Harare,
PDF version also sent to
our 4000+ (& rising) email
group;
GR ELECTRONICS
Accredited Multichoice Installer
Fast friendly service
For satellite dish installation, repair
and maintenance of all TV,
VCR, Decoder, DVD, Electronic,
Microwave, CD player, audio, as well
as electrical maintenance;
Quotes given on request.
For full details and rates call
492666; 492669, 492445
zimtrader@wildimaginings.net
www.zimtrader.co.zw
Contact Gavin on 0772 252 057
Fax/Phone: 04 333064
Email:
1gwrent@fandraplc.co.zw
1gwrent@africaonline.co.zw
Zim’s amazing Animal Rescue Warriors
The system works as such; found animals should be taken to the
nearest vet, where they are scanned for an identifying microchip.
These have been available in Zimbabwe for quite a while. Our missing dog has one. If she is
found and arrives at any vet, I'll get a call as soon as she is scanned. They are not expensive and
very much worth getting. They are very tiny and are painlessly injected into the animal, staying
implanted for life.
If you can take the stray animal to the nearest vet, even
better. The animal is photographed, and where and when
found, and at which vet it is being cared for, posted on Zim
Pets Lost and Found. If unclaimed, it will later be sent either
to SPCA (Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) or to
Friend Foundation, neither of which NGOs receive a cent
of public funding, but both of which are official centres
caring for all stray animals till such time as someone gives
them a new home, or the owner tracks them down there. It
is only
some
Painting - Interior and Exterior.
lucky
Ceilings, Gutters, Fascia Boards, Cornices etc.
Tiling - Floors, Walls.
stray
Home, Office and Factory Refurbishments.
dogs and
Roof Waterproofing: Cold-lay and Torch-on.
cats who
All Small Scale Buildings, Plumbing, Electrics.
find new
Office: 4-309061; 0773-284-229
0773-235-847; 0774656448
homes.
Email: admin@maintenancesolutions.co.zw
Website: www.maintenancesolutions.co.zw
to page 7...
5
The Zimtrader
Restaurant Guide
Email zimtrader@wildimaginings.net to
get your restaurant a FREE listing here.
Underlined + B, L, D denotes open on
Sunday for Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner.
Fine Dining Restaurants
Amanzi
The Coach House
Emmanuel’s
LD
Inglenook
Inn on Rupurara
La Fontaine
D
The Livingstone Room
Makuwa-Kuwa
New Orleans
The Boma
The Palm
BLD
Victoria 22
Harare
Bulawayo
Harare
Bulawayo
Nyanga
Harare
Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls
Bulawayo
Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls
Harare
497768
09 282726
707522/7
09 244243/7
029 3021
707725/9
013 44751
013 43201
09 243176
013 43208/20
013 44737/9
776429
Up-Market Restaurants
Alo Alo
BL
Butlers
BLD
Harvest Garden B L
Jungle Junction
Millers Café
Monos
Southern Comfort Lodge
The Goose
BLD
The Conservatory
White Horse Inn
Harare
Harare
Harare
Victoria Falls
Harare
Harare
Bulawayo
Harare
Bvumba
Bvumba
369198/369257
0776270702
772633
013 44751
0712 218 449
704501
0773 246 082
2917977/9
0772100790/4
029 60138
Family/Casual Restaurants
Adrienne's
LD
Amulonga
Arizona Spur
Bannie’s
Belcantos
LD
Bonne Journeé
Café Afrique
Chatters
Coimbra
LD
Deano’s Diner
Dv8
The Fishmonger
Gaby’s
In Da Belly
BLD
Kombahari
Bojangles Bistro Bar
Loziba
Park View
Sandawana
Silver Spur
Simple Pleasures
Simujinga
Springroll Centre
The Topside
Tinkabell
L’Artiste
Troutbeck Inn
Harare
335602
Victoria Falls 013 44561/4
Bulawayo
09 56871
Harare
251450
Harare 0783827916/886662
Bulawayo
09 64839
Harare
790861/5
Harare
487006
Harare
700237
Harare
2917209
Harare
497773
Harare
308164
Harare
700094
Victoria Falls 013 40509/11
Harare
772633
Harare
0772 247 990
Bulawayo
881273/9
Harare
704501/30
Harare
774106/12
Harare
252338
Harare
0772 127 270
Victoria Falls 45871/4
Harare
704228/703621
Nyanga
029 2441/5
Harare
661697
Harare
0774 449 041
Nyanga
029 8487
Pub Restaurants
Explorers’ Bar
L
Flat Dog Diner
The Centurion Pub and Grill
The Mill
LD
O’Hagan’s
LD
Harare
Harare
Harare
Harare
Harare
792291
0772 773 983
700037
882747
0774 362 717
Specialised Restaurants
Arnaldo’s Kensington
Arnaldo’s Graniteside
Butchers Kitchen L D
Da Eros
Dehli Palace
Galleria KwaMurongo
Garwe
Great Wall
LD
Mojo’s
Nando’s Avondale
Nando’s Marimba
Nando’s Speke Ave
Nando’s Pomona
Nando’s Jason Moyo
Nando’s
Nando’s
Panarotti’s/Spur
Paula’s Place
LD
Shangri-La
The Shop Café
The Sitar
LD
The Spice Lounge
The Tandoor
Harare
Harare
Harare
Harare
Harare
Harare
Harare
Harare
Harare
Harare
Harare
Harare
Harare
Bulawayo
Kwekwe
Mutare
Victoria Falls
Harare
Harare
Harare
Harare
Harare
Harare
0772 238 306
773877
884445
332044
883178/885358
759155
778992/4
334149
705993
0777 006 823
0777 006 825
0777 006 830
0777 006 834
0777 006 865
0777 006 862
0777 006 857
013 41525
497950
443263/4
446684
0712 616 562
0779 581 000
0772 313 131
Coffee Shops, Cafés and Bistros
Antique Rose
Banff Coffee Café
Blue Bird Café
Bottom Drawer
The Bridge Bistro
Café Espresso
Café Espresso A/port
Café Nush
The Cottage
Giovanni’s
Green Coucal
Indaba Book Café
Jacob’s Well
Meikles Lounge
Mukuvisi Woodlands
The Olive
La Patisserie
Lucullus Café
The Plot Café
River Café
Sopranos
Spring Fever
Stanley’s Terrace
Stax
Tony’s Coffee Shop
Vanilla Moon
Willow Bean
Harare
Bulawayo
Masvingo
Harare
Harare
BL
Harare
B L D Harare
Harare
Harare
BL
Harare
Mutare
Bulawayo
BL
Harare
BL
Harare
Harare
Harare
Harare
BL
Harare
BL
Harare
Bulawayo
Harare
Harare
Victoria Falls
Mutare
Bvumba
Harare
Harare
0771 131 896
09 243176
0773 272 473
745679
0772 313 647
797491/2
0776 270 703
335201,335842
0783 910 199
0772 440 043
0733 897 871
09 67068
0772 908 145
707721
0772 613 023
0774 397 804
772593
703621/704228
0776638385
0712 367 647
333833
0772 711 985
013 44762
020 62653
0712 349 356
333394
850294
ZIMTRADER WHAT’S ON GUIDE
To get a listing here, email zimtrader@wildimaginings.net.
FREE for non profit organisations, charities, fund-raisers. $10 PER ENTRY FOR ALL BUSINESSES.
Reps Theatre & Spotlight News
Fairs, Markets
Saturday Feb 21 Kidzcan Murder Mystery Dinner
Fundraiser, 7pm at The Venue, Avondale, A fun evening dining Maasdorp Ave every Wed & Sat 9 am to 12 noon: Huge
and working out who, among your friends, is the murderer!
variety of delicious fresh fare on sale. Doon Estate Market &
$60 per person with dinner, and some drinks. Cash bar avail. Book Fair: Last Sat of every month, free entry, 9am - 1pm:
nancy.benham@fco.gov.uk; 0772 127 214.
1 Harrow Rd, Msasa. Social monthly market! Interesting range
Feb 24 Fun Quiz at Theo's House of Coffees (fortnightly). of product, service and refreshment providers. Stands: 0772
Bring a team or join one. No entry fee, fun prizes. 167
301 212. Fresh Food Fair, Amanzi Restaurant each Friday
Enterprise Road opp Redan Lewisam, 6.45pm, arrive 6.15ish 9am to 1pm. 158 Enterprise Rd, Highlands, 497768.
to get settled. Supper for $5 or $8 with dessert, drinks, snacks
avail. No need to book, but to reserve a table; 0772 881 877.
Feb 28 ZADSA Ballroom and Latin Dance Sport
Joyful Living through Meditation, Harare Buddhist Centre
Competition: Jubilee Hall Hartmann House, 6pm, bar and
7–8 March: Weekend of Practice & Teaching; includes talks and
food avail. Seats advance or on door $10, pensioners, U12
mediation sessions, with Lama Yeshe Losal Rinpoche, Lama
$5. Tables of 8 $20 per person pre-booked; 0772 30232;
Zangmo and Ani Lhamo, back in Zim. Both days 10.30 - 11.30:
March 1- Chegutu Touchbowl Tournament. 11th Annual
Lama Yeshe: Joyful Living through Meditation; 2.30 – 3.30: Ani
Charity Touch Rugby Event Bryden Country School, 8am.
Lhamo: Creating a stable foundation for practice; 4.30 – 5.30
Lama Zamgmo: Courage, Confidence, Compassion. Come to
$15, U12s free. Bar and catering all day and evening.
whole weekend or any session, $20 per day for weekend,
Children's activities all day, camping avail all weekend. Live
music from South Africa's Clint & Ghapi, with Gary Stanley. No includes lunch. One Talk $5. Private interviews for taking refuge
in the Buddhist path. 0777 627 168 ksdharare@gmail.com;
cooler boxes. colindelport22@gmaill.com; 0736 693 461.
Beginners Shona Evening Classes for adults start 16 Feb:
March 10 to 14 Barnyard Theatre in Harare: 80s Rewind.
Individuals, executives, families, diplomats, expatriates,
Charities can host charity evening or group booking;
boxoffice@dae.co.zw; Facebook/Sound Event Management. organisations. Lessons with trained, qualified, experienced
native-Shona-speaking tutor. Class Group A Mon evenings and
Feb 28 A Vintage Affair. Bushman Rock Estate: Feast of
Class Group B Wed evenings in Vainona/B’dale area. Fees
fun with grape-crushing, polo, sumptuous Mediterranean
include
materials to keep. freeyourmind.info@gmail.com
buffet, live music. Tickets $70 events@islandhospice.co.zw;
Tumbuka: "Portrait of Myself as My Father" Gava's
and see Facebook A Vintage Affair – Bushman Rock 2015.
Restaurant 26 Feb choreographed by New York based
Wine enthusiasts, Join Meikles Grapevine! Informal very
Zimbabwean performer/choreographer Nora Chipaumire
social wine group, no fees or obligations, regular tastings, food Feb 20 VAWZ hosts a Slide Show of Zimbabwean Wildlife,
Company https://www.facebook.com/NoraChipaumire.
& wine pairings, wine weekends, quizzes, treasure hunts,
Nature and Scenery by Mashonaland Photographic Society
Send-off for Tumbuka to Johannesburg Dance Umbrella Festival whiskey tasting and more. aquarius@iwayafrica.co.zw
and others, 6.30pm, Wingate Golf Club. Cash bar and snack
early March, for the first time commissioned for this prestigious
meal available. 0772 357820. $10, children $5.
festival. Performed in bowling green in front of the restaurant
AWARE (Animal and Wildlife Area Research and
with live music from Fatima Katiji and Tatenda Mapaso.
HAC Running Events Q1 2015: Time Trials Friday 5.30, from Rehabilitation) Trust is run by vets and focuses on animal
Delicious traditional cuisine, drinks and your voices to add to
Old Georgians Sports Club, opposite Bridge Spar, cnr The Chase welfare, wildlife conservation and research. Campaigns in rural
the atmosphere! Tickets on gate from 5.30, performance
and Teviotdale Rd, 6 & 13 Feb, 6 & 20 Mar. 21 Feb,
areas adjacent to wildlife areas vaccinate, sterilise, de-tick, de6:30pm. $10 ticket includes $5 meal voucher and glass of
Troutbeck World’s View Run 10am, 9, 18 km, steep
worm and improve quality of life for domestic animals. This
Robertson’s wine. Fundraiser for Dance Trust of Zimbabwe gradients, no traffic, fantastic scenery, great for high altitude
assists in broader goals by contributing to improved farming,
80s Rewind Barnyard 11 March Twin Rivers School, Dance training,- great preparation for Two Oceans and Comrades! After better quality of life for rural people, resultant decreased
Trust encompasses National Ballet, Tumbuka, Outreach Project the run, relax at Troutbeck Hotel for drinks and lunch, or stay
poaching, and preventing spread of diseases from domestic to
and Dance Training) Featuring nine singers/musicians, two
the weekend. Troutbeck has a Special on accommodation. See wild animals. AWARE educates children and adults on animal
dancers, tickets $25 from DTZ office.
lhttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=buyA7JiVedM
care and conservation, does research on health of wild &
'The Solitary Reaper': Piano Recital by Sekai Mei Zengeza 8 Mar, Old Mutual Roger Brackley Marathon, 6am OG’s, 10, domestic animals living adjacently, rehabilitates & releases
13 March: Works by Chopin, Bartok, Manuel de Falla and
21, 32km; 22 Mar, Busywick, Borrowdale Club, 7am, 10,
injured wild animals, dehorns rhino. tracey@awaretrust.org.
others. Visuals by Kombo Chapfika. MC: Vee Mukarati. 5:30pm 21km, all welcome, HAC info: hacsecretaryzim@gmail.com Friend Animal Foundation cares for and re-homes abandoned,
for 6pm River of Life, Greystone Park Cnr Gaydon Rd and
http://harareathleticclub.mycylex.com
unwanted and rescued animals. Open 7 days a week 8am to
Quinton Rd Tickets $10 in advance, $15 at door. 1h 45mins
Triathlon Events: 22 Feb Orange Triathlon Kidzcan
noon, 1pm to 5pm; 7 Kirkman Rd, Tynwald. Econonmical
incl interval. antbrentano@gmail.com.
Fundraiser, Mt Pleasant Pool: Trikids, Trisports, Short & Long boarding for cats & dogs, grooming & dipping service;
Emerald Hill Children's Home 100 Year Anniversary
Mini distances, Teams, Individuals welcome. 1 March, SA
0772225845; animalfriendfoundation@gmail.com
Musical Concert, Arrupe College, 14 March: Accompanied Championships, Buffalo City, Super Sprint, Sprint, Standard,
Harare SPCA works to eliminate cruelty to animals. Comprises,
by FaB Fusion, Ovation, Bernie Bismark, Davina Green, Barak Selection Event. 15 March: Trikidz, Trisport, Short Mini, Long
an inspectorate, veterinary hospital and re-homing centre.
Quartet, and many more; 16 Link Road, Mt. Pleasant, $5.
Mini, Super Sprint, Sprint, Standard, Series Prize-giving, Series Inspectorate investigates and prosecutes all cases of cruelty
Marden Singers: 'A Little Jazz Mass', Arundel School
Points 28 March Troutbeck ATU Triathlon African Cup &
reported, visits homes of potential adopters and does spot
Chapel 22 March 3pm composed by Bob Chilcott, a
National Championship Super Sprint, Sprint, Std, National
checks after adoption. Surgery provides medical care,
performer of the internationally acclaimed King Singers, and
vaccinations and sterilisation to animals in SPCA care and
Awards, Troutbeck Mile-Open Water Swim: 750/ 1500m.
professional musician for the BBC. A kaleidoscope of classical Mukuvisi Woodlands ‘A touch of the wild in the heart of the animals of underprivileged owners. Large percentage of
veterinary treatments are pro bono or subsidised. SPCA never
music for voices and instruments, peppered with the spoken
city’: Open every day of year for game viewing, bird spotting,
turns away any animal in need. Mobile veterinary unit goes out
word. Well-known Zimbabwean musicians and locally based
coffee shop, walking or horseback guided safaris; Every Sun,
artists from Japan, Turkey, Britain and Holland. Donation $5.
The Woodland Walk-Run: Start any time from 6.30 to 10.30 five days a week to high density areas to treat, vaccinate and
am, explore further on marked trails, leashed dogs allowed; Cnr dip animals whose owners cannot bring them to hospital.
Artists in the Stream VI, Gallery Delta 10 Feb to early
ZNSPCA Charity Shop: 156 Enterprise Rd. Open Mon, Wed, Fri
Glenara Ave/Hillside Rd, join for free entry year round;
March: Annual Young Artists' Exhibition, Paintings, Graphics,
8am to 2pm, all proceeds to animal welfare, drop donated
multi-media sculptures by 38 young artists. Robert Paul's Old mukwa@zol.co.zw The new bush buck pair and male sable
goods too. tatum@zol.co.zw. 0772 308 647.
House, 110 Livingstone Ave/Ninth St Greenwood Park 792135 antelope now released, doing well!
Twala Trust Animal Sanctuary: Open to visitors by prior
Ironwill Charity Eco Challenge, 30 April to 6 May 2015:
artdelta@mweb.co.zw http://www.gallerydelta.com.
booking only. Tours of orphanage and rescue centre 10am and
Mysticism and Earth Medicine: KooVha Gallery & Creative Get Training NOW! See www.ironwill.co.zw
2:30pm,
morning/afternoon tea included, bring a picnic if you
Run/Walk
for
Life:
Friendly
and
welcoming
running
and
walking
Hub from 19 Feb 5.30pm ‘Between Reality and Dreams’.
like, picnic sites in beautiful gardens overlooking the dam, you
Solo Exhibition by Ngonidzashe Tsiga. An entrancing exploration group, lots of regular group sessions for any level of fitness,
will likely be joined by our sociable duikers, the occasional
of indigenous knowledge and its relevance to modern life. Will plus events and very social: melbzim@gmail.com
tortoise or bird and our inquisitive cats! Day ends with 4pm lion
be opened by Permanent Secretary for Sports Arts and Culture, Haka Game Park: Open daily 6 to 6. Turn left at Cleveland
Dr Thokozile Chitepo. 146 Enterprise Road, Maestro Complex Dam on Mutare Rd; entrance gate clearly sign posted. Spacious feeding. sarah@twalatrust.co.zw; 0733 436 239
Veterinarians for Animal Welfare Zimbabwe (VAWZ) is a
unspoilt
scenic
environment,
walk,
run,
cycle,
horse-ride,
near Ridgeway South, RSVP hello@koovha.com
private trust organisation spearheading many animal welfare
canoe, drive, game and bird spot, rock paintings.
Alliance Française Old Mutual Theatre: Prayer Soul and
activities, including inspections, investigations, training and
Tehn Diamond 19 Feb 7pm Homegrown neosoul and hiphop admin@glcomms.co.zw
meet in this unique collaboration to give you the best of both Mountain Club: Saturday half day and Sunday all day outings liaison. VAWZ needs your support in cash or kind, or, apply to
each weekend, gentle or strenuous, into scenic environments, adopt a rescued animal. kamvet@zol.co.zw; 0772 308 234.
worlds, $10. Watershed Music Department Fundraising
led by knowledgeable members. lorraine@zimbiz.net for info. Lost and Found Animals: Join Zim Pets Lost and Found
Concert 21 Feb, 6.30pm; Magitare with Tariro featuring
Support, Charities, Fundraisers, Community Facebook Group! Post photos and details of animals lost and
Bob Nyabinde 25 Feb 7pm, joined by Headmaster Bob
found here. Very active page, pets and owners often reunited
Nyabinde, $10; Bang Bang Comedy Club 26 Feb 7.30pm,
Kidzcan Orange Week 15 to 21 Feb. Wear Orange, Donate $1using this supportive community tool, stray animals reported
All-star cast of the funniest comedians around, $10.
to Kidszcan via Ecocash 51599 to support underprivileged
here also rescued by VAWZ, SPCA; unclaimed can be re-homed.
FAB Fusion Album Launch 27 Feb 7.30pm, Influences by
children with cancer in Zim. In 2014, Kidzcan provided direct www.facebook.com/groups/135440236649668
diverse genres such as Jazz, Soul, Pop, Samba and Afro give
patient support to over 411 children . Imagine your child was
BirdLife Zimbabwe: Learn about birds, help conserve them,
this group their unique sound presented in their debut
diagnosed with cancer and you have no resources of your own make new friends! Bird walks in scenic areas, participate in
album,$5. Blessing 'Bled Chimanga' Album Launch 28 Feb to fight it. www.kidzcanzimbabwe.org
6.30pm, The legendary energetic drummer takes a break from 21 Feb 7pm, The Venue, Avondale. Murder Mystery Dinner research projects, regular talks and events, to join & for more:
info@birdlifezimbabwe.org; www.birdlifezimbabwe.org;
touring with the Zimbabwean/Italian Outfit Zimboita to launch
in aid of KidzCan. A fun evening working out who, among your
his album. $10. 328 Herbert Chitepo Ave, 704801/ 704795. friends, is a murderer. Get a table of 10 together or we can put 481496; 490208. BirdLife Zim Mashonaland Branch
organises free bird walks for members and non-members (there
Zimbabwe German Society: Sound Gaze 25, 28 Feb, 1
you with a table. $60 per person with dinner & some drinks.
may be entry fees or a tip required depending on location); for
March, 3pm: Moving Images of Marie in Woyzeck, an
Cash bar. nancy.benham@fco.gov.uk 0772127214
more contact alegria@zol.co.zw; 490375.
Experimental Multi-media Theatre production almost six years 22nd Feb Orange Triathlon Kidzcan Fundraiser: Teams,
19 Feb presentation on BirdLife's Oct Mavuradonha
in the making. Adapted from Georg Buchner's 'Woyzeck', based Individuals welcome, see Sports above for more info.
Mountains trip to Kopje Tops Lodge by James Ball, 5.30 for
on true story of a soldier who murders his lover over infidelity, Cancer Association relies on donations, sponsorship and
6pm Avondale Sports Club, Brighton Road off Sam Nujoma
collaborations between South African and Zimbabwean artists fundraising for income & needs volunteers; join our street
Street Extn. Cash bar and safe parking.
telling a story that combines live music, images, dance and
collectors, help raise funds; T707444; 705522.
Harare area BirdLife survey of raptors and wetland birds in
drama - southern African in form, universally appealing and
Miracle Missions: Networking Meetings, Highlands Presby
derelict brickfields - an important habitat for wetland species.
relevant in content, $5. The Green Coat Space 27 Feb, 7pm, Church 112 Enterprise Road, 8.45 to 10.45 am: Clean &
During the dry season vleis and grasslands often burn. Wit
Sponsored, monthly cultural show focusing on the artist of the Green & Waste Management: First Tues every month, Life & cultivation and urban development, wetland bird species are
month, $5. All events at 51 Lawson Avenue, Milton Park,
Hope 4 Kids Last Tues; Prisons last Thurs. All welcome.
losing habitat and declining in numbers. The clay soils and
pr@goetheharare.org; 0773 222 314; 705753; 796836;
Harare Senior Citizens Club: Over 55s, join for just $20
depth of these brickfields means water remains year round and
http://facebook.com/gzharare
annually. Fantastic library, TV room, hair salon, bar, coffee shop, reedbeds are extensive in some. They are often bordered by
Feb 20 to 22 Meikles Grapevine hosts 2015 Nyanga Wine restaurant run by hospitality training company, low cost meals, steep sides and not impacted by people as much as vleis and
Weekend. Fun for all with a selection of lunch and dinner
weekly Bingo, other events year. round. 250093.
dambos. All bird species will be surveyed, and waterbirds will
tastings. Host venue Inn On Rupurara, additional beds, Pine
Support Group for People Living With Cancer. Share
also be counted. BirdLife would like the public to let them know
Tree Inn. Book with Inns of Zimbabwe or Armadillo Travel
experiences, fears, positive thoughts with others on a similar
locations of derelict quarries, sand pits and brickfields especially
Natal/King George Rd Avondale. aquarius@iwayafrica.co.zw path. Together we are better: peterjoy@zol.co.zw.
south and east of Harare (Mt Hampden already scouted).
The Spotlight in Reps Theatre foyer: Belgravia Shops, open
Mon to Fri 9am to 4pm & Sat 9am to 12 noon. 308159,
phone bookings available to all. Booking venue for Reps shows,
Celebs concerts, many other events and shows in Harare, to use
this facility: 335850. Sells Ndeipi, free copies of Zimtrader. Join
Reps, be a member of Africa's best amateur theatrical
society: Enjoy the bar as a social theatre-goer, shows at
discount prices, or be an active member on or back-stage.
www.reps.co.zw; www.facebook.com/RepsTheatre
Feb 23 Oscar Night in the Reps Bar. Watch the M-Net rebroadcast of the Oscars, dress up for effect. No entry fee, cash
bar and snacks available. See the show with company, more
enjoyable when you do. Park in rear secure car park. Don't know
how to dress? Call Reps wardrobe on 336706 for ideas and to
hear what they've got, dress in style or as a movie character.
Screening starts 7.30pm, come any time after 6.30pm. March
10 to 21: The Repertory Players present Dirty Dancing, first
time on stage in Harare, directed by Clare Hingeston,
choreography by Michelle Nativel, book now at Spotlight. March
30 An Evening of Words, Reps Bar. Theme, Easter Bonnet.
Poetry, prose and fun action with this theme, bring an Easter
Bonnet to qualify for a prize. Reps Wardrobe open so you can
pop in and find something! Food avail, free entry, all welcome.
Courses
Other Arts Events
Animal Welfare, Wildlife Conservation
Sports, Outdoor, Environmental
66
HANDY NUMBERS GUIDE
AUTO SERVICES
MEDICAL
Medic Alert Foundation
Turbo Solutions Africa (Pvt) Ltd
of Zimbabwe
“Turbocharger Sales
704488; 704489; 2916307
and Service”
medalert@africaonline.co.zw
Unit 1, 3 Borgward Road,
www.medicalert.co.zw
Msasa, Harare
446587/ 0712 889 540/
PLUMBING and WATER
0773 195 474
Get Wet Borehole
TSAturbo@mweb.co.zw
Drilling Services
www.turbosolutionsafrica.com
0772 336 593/ 04 746 040
ELECTRICAL MAINTENANCE
richard.c.bridges@gmail.com
Mills Electrical Services
Les Plumbers (Pvt) Ltd
Tel Shaun 0775 886 236
For all plumbing and
2918394 (Evenings best)
property maintenance
FABRICS
Parade Fabrics
28 George Avenue, Msasa
Tel: 446143 Cell: 0774 108 430
email: parade@zol.co.zw
04 - 747992; 0772 350 395,
0772 696 893
e-mail : mardons@zol.co.zw
HOLIDAYS, TRAVEL and
ACCOMMODATION
Leisure Travel Centre
nikki@leisuretravel.co.zw
Tel : 740679 / 740946 /741031
Or 0733 433 745
Powerplay: 26 Cambridge Road (corner King George Road), Avondale, Harare.
Tel:307594/333213 Open: Monday-Friday (0800hrs to 1630hrs)
Travel 2000
Email: jill@trvl2000.co.zw
Tel: 776673 / 746201,
0772 273 901
Looking for Leto.....
Finding the animal rescue warriors
ESTABLISHED 2009
If looking for a new pet, always start here. Potential owners are
carefully vetted by both organisations to ensure they can provide
TO ADVERTISE HERE costs just $10 per Issue - $20 per month.
a safe, loving environment. I've been communicating daily on the
Discounted Rates for Multiple Bookings if Paid in Advance!
Zim Pets Lost and Found Facebook Group literally since we came
Pre-pay, to cut down on admin and save money.
home and found Leto gone on New Year's Day. The over 1400
$50 for 6 inserts (3 months) if pre-paid - 1 insert free
(and growing daily as awareness spreads) members provide lots
$100 for 12 inserts (6 months) if pre-paid - 2 inserts free
of feedback, useful ideas, advice and potential sightings of your
$190 for 24 inserts (12 months) if paid in advance - 5 inserts free
lost animal, and information on ways to expand your search. It is
You can amend the wording at any time during those periods.
also a great way to alert a bunch of concerned people of your lost
pet, who are in any case, constantly looking out for wandering
animals, and to publish pictures of them. Importantly, it is also a very kind and understanding support group for those
Musical
whose pets are literally family members or surrogate children, and for whom the loss is devastating. I am one of these,
Word
and the kindness of people who check in here regularly is overwhelming, and has even led to two full blown volunteer
search parties and flyer drops for Leto! This sort of response from kind people, most of whom one does not even know,
Search
restores one's faith in humanity! It is also humbling to discover how many people are out there, trying to prevent cruelty
Solution
to animals, to reunite lost pets with their anxious owners, and to find good homes for animals living a horrible,
BANJO
frightening life on the streets, and constantly at risk of being hit by a car.
Why should we care about stray dogs?
When you drive past the ragged, dirty, walking skeletons of dogs, often with gaping wounds, who roam our suburbs
and city, often forming loose packs for mutual protection and survival, do you consider what has brought them to this?
It goes to our mutual responsibility as a species for the domestic animals that we, seemingly thinking ourselves godlike, have over millennia created, by interfering with natural selection and breeding. We have so far removed them
from their origins that they are no longer able to take care of themselves or survive without us.
Domestic dogs are just such a 'man-made' species and as such, deserve a special amount of care, because they have
been bred purely to please, serve and indulge us. The resultant animal is dependent on us, alert only to our needs
and wishes, and driven almost entirely by our demands and whims. Working dogs will literally run or work themselves
to death for their human owners, defying the natural survival instinct in the service of man.
All domestic dogs, no matter the breed, are just one step removed from their original predecessor, the wolf, the
fearsomely well-adapted predator with a close knit social order and astonishing pack cohesion when hunting, much as
we here are lucky enough to be able sometimes to observe today in the African Wild Dog. Wolves roamed Europe,
Asia and America during the ice age 45 000 years ago in great numbers. As with much ancient history, we have to
surmise and assume how the dog we know today came to be, based on anthropological and archaeological records,
and a few leaps of logic. Around 32 000 years ago, when just one million humans populated the earth, it is surmised
that the 'camp wolf' first emerged.
to page 8...
7
BASSOON
BOUZOUKI
BUGLE
CHIMES
COW BELL
EUPHONIUM
FRENCH HORN
HURDY GURDY
KEYBOARD
MARACAS
MARIMBAS
MELODICA
OCARINA
PICCOLO
RECORDER
SITAR
TAMBOURINE
TIN WHISTLE
TROMBONE
TUBA
UKULELE
VIOLA
The origin, and the plight, of the domestic dog
By Rosie Mitchell
story starts on front cover...
Small bands of hunter-gatherer humans would move from camp
to camp, leaving their scraps on the periphery of their temporary
settlement – bones, gristle and other discarded remnants of their
latest feast following a hunt. They were observed by wolves,
attracted by the enticing smell of cooking meat, highly intelligent
and organised pack animals who over time came to realise there
were easy pickings to be had from people's leftovers. This
emerging version of the wolf began to adapt, moving where men
moved. Humans began reaping benefits in return. The wolves
set off the alarm when sensing, with their superior hearing and
smell, the approaching presence of dangerous animals, and so,
helped warn and protect the band of humans, sometimes dying in
the process of keeping approaching predators away from their
own young. It is assumed that humans began to develop a strong
The wolf - from which species, all domestic dogs descend
bond with camp wolves, to adopt their orphaned young, and to
form the sort of attachment with these animals that we still enjoy today. It is a human trait to form nurturing bonds, and in petting and
stroking animals, we trigger the release of oxytocin, 'the hormone of love', which makes us feel good, and inclined towards nurturing, and
also strengthens the close bond between us and the being triggering its release. This is how the domestic dog came to be! The dogs
whose company we enjoy today are very
much a product of mankind's meddling
with natural species evolution. Over
time, those wolves that were not
aggressive towards us or our children
would have been favoured, and would
then be allowed by their adoptive pack of
humans to breed – so it was in these very
early times that dog breeding began.
Most of the vast number of dog breeds
we know today, however, only came
about during the past century or so.
Our dogs today watch us for all their
cues, depend on us for their welfare, and
look to us for leadership. They hang on
our every move, voice inflexion, even
facial expression, studying our eyes for
clues as to what we require of them. This
is what makes the plight of the
abandoned stray dog, or abused dog, so
tragic. We humans have bred them to
be so focussed on us and our demands
of them that they simply cannot fare well
without us.
Next time you see a band of pitiful
ragamuffin stray dogs, think on this, and
on their plight, perhaps with increased
compassion. Mahatma Gandhi's
famous statement, “The greatness of a
nation and its moral progress can be
judged by the way its animals are
treated”, requires serious contemplation.
Only when we humans feel, demonstrate
and practise compassion for all creatures
can we call ourselves evolved and
enlightened. What sets us apart from
other species is our ability to reason, to
deliberate before we act, to understand
the consequences of our actions. We are
not driven merely by instinct and reflex.
Other creatures often live or die entirely
at our whim. Taking Gandhi's statement
as a yardstick, our country has a long
way to go. Cruelty to animals and
neglect and abuse of those in the
supposed care of human beings is
widespread and horrific. All living
creatures on this Earth, deserve our
understanding respect and compassion.
8