Man to spend 10 days chained in kennel to protest cruelty of keeping dogs tethered

CapeTalk's Clarence Ford speaks to Jason Hayman, Founder of Chocolate Angels Animal Rescue.

Listen below:

Jason Hayman will spend the 10 days from Mandela Day (18 July) to 27 July chained in a kennel to raise awareness about the cruelty of tethering dogs for long.

This isn’t his first time taking a stand. In June 2023, Hayman spent 60 hours chained up, and in December of the same year, he extended that to 100 hours. His goal for 2025 is to reach a total of 240 hours in chains.

Hayman says the initiative is meant to draw attention to the severe physical and psychological harm dogs endure when kept chained. Prolonged tethering can lead to aggression, anxiety, and increased vulnerability to attacks from other animals or people.

His campaign is part of a broader push to advocate for more humane treatment of dogs and to educate the public on the dangers and cruelty of continuous chaining.

Animal welfare groups support Hayman’s message, stating that chaining is an inhumane practice that often leads to unnecessary suffering.

"Some people think I'm crazy, but it's the only way really to get the idea across to people. A lot of people aren't aware of what happens in rural areas, and sadly, dogs live their lives on chains.... we're freezing... animals out there that don't have shelter or protection from the elements, they're freezing... just as we are."

- Jason Hayman, Chocolate Angels Animal Rescue

Hayman says the initiative is also a fundraiser aimed at securing a larger property to accommodate more rescue animals.

At present, he cares for 49 dogs and 38 cats, with more puppies and kittens arriving soon. A bigger space would allow him to take in and properly care for more animals without the risk of overcrowding.

To adopt an animal or make a donation, you can contact Hayman through Chocolate Angels Animal Rescue on Facebook or via WhatsApp: 061 870 8967.

Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the full conversation.