Mathibestad, North West – Dr John Sithole, a traditional healer from Mathibestad, North West, has an extraordinary bond with his canine companions. He doesn't just keep dogs; he considers his more than 100 greyhounds as family, showering them with affection, gourmet meals, and even the occasional bucket of KFC.
Sithole's passion for dogs runs deep, rooted in his family history and spiritual beliefs. He believes his ancestors have blessed him with the ability to keep these animals and performs rituals to introduce each new dog to his ancestral spirits.
"My ancestors are happy about the dogs. They escort me when I go to the bushes to get muthi," Sithole explained, highlighting the spiritual significance of his dogs in his practice as a traditional healer.
Sithole's connection with dogs began in his childhood in Winterveld, Tshwane, where he grew up hunting animals with the help of canine companions. "We have a history of dogs in my family. I used to hunt and sell the meat for me to go to school," he recounted, illustrating how dogs have been intertwined with his livelihood from a young age.
He officially started his greyhound business in 2008 with a single dog, which he purchased for R5,000. To acquire the funds, Sithole sold a cow, but it wasn't enough, so he dipped into his savings.
Now, Sithole's greyhounds are not just pets; they're a source of income. He sells his dogs for significant sums, depending on their age, breed, and potential for hunting and breeding. On Thursday, 6 March, he sold his three-year-old male dog, Ithuna Lendoda, for a staggering R75,000 to a buyer from Soshanguve. The dog was purchased for hunting and breeding purposes.
"I sell three dogs for R65,000 each and another two for R55,000 each. I sell the puppies for R5,000, which are three months old," Sithole revealed, showcasing the lucrative nature of his greyhound business.
But it's not just about the money for Sithole. He genuinely cares for his dogs and believes they teach valuable lessons about responsibility. "I love dogs because they teach us to be responsible. I teach young boys how to take care of dogs," he said, emphasising the importance of instilling a sense of care and compassion in the younger generation.
The sangoma spares no expense when it comes to his dogs' well-being. He spends over R20,000 a month on food alone, with his dogs consuming a whopping 50kg of dog food. However, their diet isn't limited to standard dog food. Sithole often treats his dogs to buckets of KFC, which they apparently adore. He also cooks beef for them, ensuring they receive the best possible nutrition.
"My dogs kill animals when I go hunting. I buy them buckets of KFC and they love it. I sometimes cook beef for the dogs. My dogs don't eat bones but eat cooked steak," Sithole said, highlighting the lavish lifestyle he provides for his furry friends.
In addition to food, Sithole also invests heavily in his dogs' healthcare, spending over R14,000 every three months on their medication. "These dogs are my life and friends. I feel bad when any of my dogs die. It's like a family member has passed on," he confessed, revealing the deep emotional connection he has with his animals.
Sithole has ambitions beyond his current business and plans to participate in an international dog competition, showcasing the quality and training of his greyhounds on a global stage.
His wife, Dineo, shares his love for dogs and supports his passion. "When my husband buys the dogs KFC, he also buys for us. I also love dogs," she said, highlighting the shared affection for animals within the family.
His son, Forget (29), also plays a role in caring for the dogs, further demonstrating the family's commitment to their well-being. "Dogs are close to his father's heart and that they also take care of them," Forget said.
highlighting the shared affection for animals within the family.
His son, Forget (29), also plays a role in caring for the dogs, further demonstrating the family's commitment to their well-being. "Dogs are close to his father's heart and that they also take care of them," Forget said.
