We all love our furry friends, but it takes a very special and dedicated person to devote their lives to the care and well-being of animals in need. The owners and employees at these animal shelters work tirelessly and would love some additional help from anyone willing to get their hands dirty and spend some time caring for our four-legged companions.
If you’re looking for places to volunteer, here’s a list of six well-deserving spots that would really appreciate a helping hand.
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Ark Animal Centre
This Joburg-based shelter is a haven for puppies, pregnant moms and abandoned small-breed dogs. It’s just 15 minutes from the Fourways/Dainfern area, so if you’re close by and want to lend a hand you’re more than welcome. If you volunteer, expect to handle things like bathing, feeding or even some de-worming. Every little bit helps.
Wetnose Animal Rescue Centre
Famous for their right-to-life ethos, Wetnose doesn’t adhere to the policy of euthanasia so even the most weather-beaten animals will find a home here. They look after over 600 dogs and cats and rely purely on donations to stay in business. Based in the Bronkhorstspruit area in Gauteng, they’re constantly looking for volunteers from Pretoria or Joburg.
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Animal Anti-Cruelty League
This care and protection centre operates around SA, from PE and Ladysmith to Joburg and Cape Town, so people from across the nation can help out. Children and adults are required to do at least one volunteer course where you’ll be taught the basics of how to care for and handle animals – visit their website to find out more.
TEARS Animal Rescue
TEARS, situated in Cape Town’s Sunnydale area, welcomes volunteers to come and spend their time with their four-legged rescues. Visit their website to fill out an indemnity form and specify how you’d like to help – from kennelling, snuggling, fostering and gardening to donating your free time or books for helping their charity shops. For more info call 0217854482.
DARG (Domestic Animal Rescue Group)
The group in Hout Bay encourages all potential volunteers to get in touch. To become a volunteer, you’ll need to book an orientation (which is held every Wednesday and third Saturday of every month) through their website or office. Under 18s are also welcome to lend a helping hand under adult supervision. Visit their website for more info on how you can get involved.
Mazarat Animal Rescue
Located in Waterfall, KZN, Mazarat urges members of the public to help where they can. The organization relies on support from people like us. They operate from boarding kennels and cattery on Mazarat Farm, where their four-legged companions are housed. Their biggest goal is to raise enough funds to build their own kennels and welcome many more rescues.
Compiled by Features Writer, Stephanie van der Plank
