Pets can be great companions, but if you are wanting a furry friend it is considered more ethical to adopt than to buy, especially in a country in South Africa where there are plenty adorable cat and dogs in need of good homes. Here is a list of some of the great local organisations that work hard to rehabilitate neglected animals:
Mdzananda
Khayelitsha
Mdzananda is the only animal clinic located in Khayelitsha, providing veterinary services to more than one million pet owners. Check out their Facebook page to see the dogs (and cats) that may need new homes. If you are studying to be a vet, consider volunteering at Mdzananda – read about others experiences here.
No adoption fee.
TEARS (The Emma Animal Rescue Society)
False Bay
This pro-life NPO not only rescue neglected animals; they educate children on pet care and provide animal health services in underprivileged areas too. Go to their website to see what dogs and cats currently are up for adoption or you can donate your old things to one their charity shops to support the initiative.
Adoption fee: R450 for dogs and cats
Includes: sterilisation, first vaccination, up-to-date deworming, microchip and a free month of dog/puppy training!
DARG (Domestic Animal Rescue Group)
Hout Bay
Started by a group of volunteers and funded by a trust created by animal lovers, this pro-life organisation are dedicated to nursing neglected pets back to health. You can adopt by checking out their website photo gallery for their dogs and cats – they have rabbits and guinea pigs too! Alternatively you can add them as a beneficiary to your MySchool card.
Adoption fee: R395 for cats and R495 for dogs – plus a R100.00 administration fee for both
Includes: sterilisation, vaccination, deworming and a copper identity disc.
SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals)
National / international
The SPCA is an animal welfare NPO that began in England in 1824 and now works internationally to prevent animal cruelty. The South African branch of the organisation – the NSPCA – work to address issues such as farm animal protection, animal ethics, society liaison and wildlife protection. They also offer dogs and cats for adoption.
Adoption fee: R450 to R500
Includes: sterilisation, vaccinations, deworming, dipping and micro-chip.
