Feed Hungry Tummies

Animal shelters are always running out of food to feed their precious dogs and cats, so make life a little easier on your local shelter and donate some pet food. This can be something as simple as dry pellets and tinned food, or you can opt for something extra special and donate treats, gravy or food bowls. If you're feeling extra generous, you can even create a hamper filled with yummy treats, bright and colourful toys and something a little more practical, like tick and flea repellent, cat litter or shampoo.

Help Pay Their Bills

With the high cost of vet bills, it's a wonder any animal shelter is left standing after the COVID-19 lockdown. Spare a thought for the injured and sick animals at these shelters this winter and donate a little something. No matter how big or small your donation, it will be much appreciated. If you are unable to donate even a small amount of money, consider asking friends and family to donate on your behalf in lieu of a birthday gift.

Keep A Fur Baby Warm

If there was one thing that every shelter across the southern hemisphere could ask for right now, it would probably be blankets to help keep the animals in their care warm during the cold nights. Help out your local animal charity organisation and donate a few used blankets, towels or dog jerseys. Or if you don't have any to spare, why not buy a few? With winter warmer specials left, right and centre, you'll probably be able to find a few warming blankets at just about any store.

Knit Away

Are you still sitting at home during lockdown? Then why not take up knitting as a hobby and knit a few blankets, jerseys or even toys for a pooch or kitty? You can even get your friends, family, colleagues or fellow community members to join in and start a drive to collect knitted blankets for those in need. It's a wonderful way to get closer to your community and keep busy while helping those in need.

Cat

Image sourced from Doris Metterniche via www.pixabay.com

Support Local Initiatives

Another great way to help out charities across Joburg is to support one of their many initiatives. Here are just some of the initiatives in our city:

Pug Rescue

Pug Rescue is an animal welfare organisation based in Benoni. As the name suggests, they take in unwanted and neglected pugs (and honorary pugs) and give them love and care until they can be re-homed. Currently, they are selling masks and buffs for adults and children for R85 - R120 in gorgeous pug-inspired designs. Order yours by emailing [email protected] and help make a difference in the life of a pug.

Paws R Us

Paws R Us rescues dogs throughout the city and cares for them at their shelter in Midrand until they find their furever homes. In an effort to stop the spread of COVID-19, they are selling a range of stylish buffs. These cost just R90 for one, R85 each for two or R75 each for three or more. Email [email protected] to purchase yours.

Saints

Saints in an animal charity shop that sells donated secondhand items and gives the proceeds to animal welfare organisations across Joburg. Help this wonderful shop help others by donating your unwanted clothing, books, homeware or trinkets to their shop. Alternatively, visit their shop in North Riding and purchase a few odds and ends or bid on exclusive items on their Facebook page.

Santa Cause For Paws

Santa Cause For Paws in an online shop selling beautiful customised mugs, handmade baby blankets, unique trinkets and pet treats in a bid to earn much needed funds for animal shelters. Help thousands of homeless animals in the city by purchasing some of the exquisite items on offer at the store, perfect as a gift for your loved ones.

Adopt, Foster or Sponsor

Lastly, one of the best ways to help your local animal shelter stay afloat is to adopt one of the animals in their care. Adopted animals have lots of love to give and truly make the best companions. If you are unable to adopt, why not foster an animal until they find their furever home? If this is also not an option, you can choose to sponsor an animal for just a small amount, ensuring they will stay warm and fed for at least a short while.

Dog

Image sourced from Congerdesign via www.pixabay.com

Do you know of any other ways to help local animal charities survive the winter chill? Let us know about them in the comments section below!

Legacy Hotels & Resorts, the leaders and experts in independent luxury hotels and resorts across Africa, has partnered with Nutriwell to feed communities neighbouring its hotels and resorts during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

This project forms part of the ambitious task of feeding over 10 million children over the next two years. 

Nutriwell has helped feed over 1 million children with its range of fortified powdered products, including a thick vegetable soup, soya stew mince, instant porridge and an instant beverage shake.

Now Legacy Hotels & Resorts, through its Legacy Pride NPC, is contributing 7 500 individual, nutritionally-balanced meals per day, with the target of achieving 15 000 meals per day for the next three months, and is appealing to others to contribute to the initiative by clicking here. 

So far, the project has contributed 16 000 meals to Friends for Life in Alexandra, 48 000 meals to each of the North West’s Mogwase and Ledig communities and a further 48 000 meals to households in Belfast in Mpumalanga. Both SizaBantswana Orphans in Hazyview and Baphemele Children’s Home in Cape Town have also received 15 000 and 27 000 meals respectively.

Speaking about the partnership, Robert Hodson, Group Marketing Manager for Legacy Hotels & Resorts, reiterated how the values of community participation and leaving a legacy for the future was something that was shared by both organisations.

“Legacy has over 20 properties across the continent, and involvement and upliftment is a big part of our ethos,” says Hodson.

“The Coronavirus pandemic has further highlighted the significant inequalities that exist in our country, and now more than ever, we need to help each other in the fight against poverty.” 

“By partnering with an organisation like Nutriwell, we can continue our work with local community upliftment, while also investing in the health and well-being of our greatest resource – our children,” he concludes.

To contribute to the Legacy Pride initiative, please click here.

Parkview Charity Christmas Market 2019

Get your Christmas shopping done early while supporting a worthy cause. Join the Parkview Charity Christmas Market 2019 and browse through their selection of stalls selling delectable food and unique trinkets. Or have a blast with the many fun activities and entertainment on offer. All proceeds from the market will be donated to charity. 

Garden Of Lights

For just R25 per person, you and your family can enjoy a spectacle of lights. You can also visit and take a photo with santa, visit Santa’s Workshop, the Mystic Castle and the Magic Sweet Shop. If you’re hungry after all the festivities, stop by at the food stalls for some Frosty Melts, Smile Donuts, Gourmet Chariots and more. All proceeds will be donated to charity. Booking is essential and the event is weather dependent. 

Spoil A Rescue This Christmas

This Christmas, spread the joy by giving some much-needed attention to the pugs and honourary pugs of Pug Rescue in Benoni. For the cost of R20 or a tin of Husky with gravy, you get to spend an hour enjoying the wags, snorts and glob of the wonderful pooches waiting for their furever homes. Visitors can choose between the 8:00 slot and take the dogs for a walk, or the 10:00 slot, where they can cool down at the pug pool party. If you're not available on 1 December, then join Merry Pugmas on Saturday, 7 December 2019 for a day of fun.

Christmas Spectacular

This Christmas, head to the Alexander Theatre in Braamfontein for a Christmas Spectacular. Presented by Hillsong South Africa, this family-friendly musical stage show is bound to get even the Grinch in the festive spirit. Feel the jingle in the air as you enjoy a live performance of all your favourite Christmas carols. And in true festive spirit, the funds raised from this show will go towards bringing some festive joy through Hillsong's community outreach programme.

FURRstive Christmas Market & Adoption Day

Animal lovers, unite. Visit A New Hope Dog Rescue for their FURRstive Christmas Market & Adoption Day. Entry to the event costs just R20.00 or a donation of a can of tinned dog food. The day will be filled with loads of fun, from pony rides to market stalls. Spend the day meeting all the beautiful furbabies looking for their furever homes. 

Drinking Olympics

PET RESCUE, in association with Women For Animals Alliance, will be hosting a very special Christmas Charity event this festive season. This Christmas, gather your friends, co-workers and family members and drink for a rescue. Bookings can be made for a team of four members and includes a welcome drink. All funds raised from this joyous event will go towards animal charities in the area to help them survive the up-coming busy season.

What A Feeling

Join Paws R Us SA and Pekingese Rescue of South Africa this December for a throw-back party unlike any other. Let out your inner 80s child and dance away to the classics from Madonna, Michael Jackson and U2. Apart from the delicious a la carte menu, visitors can bust a move on the dance floor, get refreshments at the cash bar, browse through the craft stalls or take a snap at the adorable shelter dog photo booth. All proceeds will be used to suppawt shelter dogs during the festive season.

Picnic With Carols

Wetnose Animal Rescue Centre invite you to join them for a delightful picnic this joyous season. Bring your friends and family along for a magical evening under the stars, complete with Christmas carols and a special screening of The 12 Dogs Of Christmas. If you'd rather not make the trip at night, join them for a day of wagging tails and sloppy kisses while spoiling the shelter's animals before the Christmas rush hits.

Special Mention: Santa Cause For Paws Pledging

Santa Cause For Paws is an animal welfare organisation and online store that aims to make a difference in the lives of animals in shelters this Christmas. They plan to do this by collecting boxes of treats for puppies, kittens, cats and dogs and dropping them off at various shelters on Christmas Day. You can help by pledging to donate a box, containing 2 things yum, 1 thing warm, something fun and something useful. Or, you can offer out your workspace or home as a drop-off zone. Help put the wags back in the tails of unwanted and abandoned animals this Christmas.

Do you know of any other Christmas events for charity? Let us know in the comments section below!

Santa Cause For Paws

Santa Cause For Paws is a registered NCP in Joburg. Their aim is to assist unwanted, homeless or otherwise neglected animals in any way they can. They do this mostly through raising funds on their website. Despite the name, this organisation runs year-round in a bid to help as much as possible. They have an online store selling trickets and gift ware, with all proceeds going to various charities across Joburg. They also do what they can to help other charities helping animals in townships, feeding ferals and fostering homeless furbabies.

Gift Ware

Throughout the year, Santa Cause For Paws sells a range of gift ware on their online store. Items include handmade gifts, personalised mugs, silver jewellery and Christmas baubles, among others. The proceeds of these items go towards assisting animal welfare organisations across the city. These items can be delivered at an extra cost, or can be collected from pick up points in Kempton Park, Krugersdorp or Strydom Park at no cost. Here's some more details about their offerings:

Mugs

Santa Cause For Paws offers a wide range of gorgeous mugs that are fully customisable. The printed mugs are available in a range of options, with cartoon depictions of every dog and cat breed imaginable. Buyers can get their dog's or cat's name printed beneath the photo and can choose what colour they want their mug to be. You can also get a photo of your precious furbaby printed on your new mug. Or choose from a selection of funky printed mugs.

Jewellery

Looking for an outstanding gift for that someone special? Look no further than Santa Cause For Paws. This store has a wide range of gorgeous silver jewellery that makes the ultimate gift for any animal lover. Items include cat, dog, crescent, horse and paw shaped pendants.

Baubles

To add a personal touch to your Christmas tree this year, why not invest in decorations made just for you? SCFP crafts unique Christmas baubles personalised with your name. You can also choose to have the bauble printed with a silhouette of your dog or cat or choose to have stars, paws or hearts crowning your trinket. Baubles are available in blue, copper, gold, green, red, silver, pink, purple, white, black and turquoise with names and designs in black or white.

Handmade Gifts

If there's a bundle of joy joining the family this Christmas then SCFP has just what you need. Gift the little one with their very own handmade blanket. These super soft blankets are adorned with teddy bears and are available in a range of colours. Pair this with a gorgeous handmade crocheted plush toy, and baby will be sleeping through the night in no time.

Biscuit Buckets

Christmas wouldn't be Christmas without a special gift for our four-legged furbabies. And Santa Cause For Paws has just what you need to get your pet's tail wagging. Gift them this festive season with a yummy Doggylish Treat. Or, make their next seven years with their very own Biscuit Bucket. Filled with an almost endless supply of Beeno Biscuits, these buckets are personalised with your dog's name.

Pledge

This Christmas, thousands of animals will be in animal shelters across Joburg, waiting for their furever homes. Santa Cause For Paws aims to add some wag to their tales this festive season by gifting as many animals as they can with their very own box of treats. You can help them achieve this by pledging to donate a box, or a few boxes, to a kitten, puppy, cat or dog.

Each box should be packed with two things yum (food and treats), something warm (a blanket), something fun (a toy), something useful (tick and flea solution, brush, leash, colour, shampoo) and an optional staff item (a gift for the hardworking staff at the welfare organisations).

After packaging and labeling the box, pledgers can then drop off the donation to one of the many drop-off points across the country. To see the various drop-off points, click here. The package will then be dropped off at shelters throughout the country.

Help Out

There are many ways you can suppawt this extraordinary organisation. Other than suppawting their online store and pledging to donate a box, you can also volunteer, offer your home or business as a drop-off point, assist with transport or make a donation. This year, Santa Cause For Paws aims to raise R140500 for animal welfare organisations across South Africa. They also aim to give 1105 boxes to cats, 1705 boxes to dogs, 595 boxes to kittens and 765 boxes to puppies. The final date for drop-offs is on Sunday, 1 December 2019. Alternatively, you can make a donation until Tuesday, 31 December 2019.

For More Information

To find out more about this pawsome organisation, email them at [email protected], visit their website or follow and like them on Facebook.

*Images sourced from Santa Cause For Paws

What Is It?

And in moments like these one has to defend themselves should anything happen. And we think this is a much needed event to attend. They are inviting you to join in as they will be having an Open Day on the 28th of September at their centre. These are the following classes they will be having:

All are free and any questions about the club and its offerings can also be answered. (Beginners can try a class at any time, so you are more than welcome to try before then as well). They hope to see you then! Please visit www.fightingfit.co.za to book your spot/s.

When Is It?

Saturday, 28 September 2019 at 10:00 - 14:00.

Where Is It?

MTG Fighting Fit Central, Marks Park sports club, Corner Judith road and Orange road, Emmarentia, Johannesburg.

How Much Is It?

Entrance is free.

For More Information

Visit this Facebook page for more information.

Volunteer

We know, we said you wouldn't have to break a sweat. And you don't. Volunteering doesn't necessarily mean painting walls or landscaping a garden. You can also donate your time and even a little bit of money doing simple things. Especially during this lockdown, there are many organisations, individuals and charities that could certainly do with a little assistance. Click here to see how you can volunteer during the lockdown/pandemic.

Donate Used Goods

It is winter and we are all feeling it down to our bones. But not everyone is able to simmer in a warm bath, pile on the blankets, fill up the hot water bottles and sip on hot cocoa. But we can help these people by donating old warm clothes, shoes, blankets and socks. You can also donate old home-ware, appliances and even toys. Just collect anything you no longer use and drop it off at one of your nearest charity stores, SPCAs or NPOs. Click here for a few suggestions.

Donate Blankets

Animals get cold, too. So, this Mandela Day, donate old blankets and towels to your favourite animal shelter or SPCA to ensure that their animals will be warm this winter. Don't have any old blankets to donate? No sweat! Pep sells an assortment of blankets for as little as R30*. Or, you can get grey Marlton's dog blankets from Takealot for just R70*. You can even buy in bulk to keep more than one animal warm at once, click here to order the five-pack Pet's Budget Blanket bundle for R399*. You'll be sleeping a lot better at night, and the dogs and cats at the animal shelters will, too. A little kindness goes a long way!

Support Animal Shelters

Speaking of keeping fur babies warm during the winter, why not spend part of your 67 minutes doing what you can (given the circumstances) for the local animal shelters within the city? This can be anything from making a generous donation, providing their charity stores with unwanted goods that you no longer use, and just like we mentioned above, donate blankets. Here's a few ways you can assist.

Help Animal Shelters Survive The Winter

Image sourced from Helena Lopes via www.pexels.com

Become A Blood Donor

Blood donations are needed for patients who have blood diseases, need operations and who have suffered traumas. However, blood can be a scarcity in the winter months. This is because with outbreaks of colds and flu, many regular donors are unable to donate regularly. By donating just once, you can save up to three lives! Find out more and where you can donate blood here.

 

Become A Bone Marrow Donor

We all know how much Madiba loved kids. Unfortunately, many of these little treasures suffer from diseases that can only be cured with the help of matching blood marrow. You can register to be a bone marrow donor. All you need to do is give a sample of blood, which will be tissue-typed and added to a database. If you are matched, you'll go for further testing and then donate to save a life. Join the South African Bone Marrow Registry here.

volunteer hands holding red knitted hands

Become An Organ Donor

As with bone marrow, many children, and adults, are dying each year because of failing organs. The only thing that can save them is a healthy donor organ. You can register to become an organ donor and your organs can be used to save a life, even after you are gone. Find out more about the Organ Donor Foundation here.

Collect Change

Many charity organisations desperately need funds. While not all of us are able to donate a significant amount, we can still help. The concept is simple. Set a time limit, such as a year, get a tin and for the whole year collect all your change. At the end of the time limit, donate the change to your charity of choice. The amount really builds up over time.

donate child putting coins into a blue piggy bank

Feed The Homeless

Whether humans or animals, there are many left starving in our city. Everyone can help them by collecting tins of food or other non-perishable items and donating them to orphanages, churches, old age homes or animal shelters.

Events To "Attend" & Support

Granted, we'll me making a difference a little differently this year due to the global COVID-19 pandemic and the national lockdown restricting social gatherings. However, there a re still a few things you can attend and contribute to this Mandela Day. Just be sure to check the dates of these, as some take place on Friday, 17 July 2020:

mandela day banner

Image by MandelaDay.com.

Pets

Rabbits

Many people adopt rabbits, especially during Easter, without knowing the full consequences. Rabbits can be notoriously difficult to care for, especially for children. They need a lot of care such as food, daily exercise outside their cage and special food. Many people choose to "set them free" and leave them in a park. This is problematic as bunnies are domesticated, not wild, and they also breed, creating a population problem. Berario Bunnies and The Strawberry Foundation catch these rabbits and offer them TLC until they can be re-homed.

How you can help: donate cages, blankets and money; can volunteer to help catch the rabbits; foster and adopt rabbits.

Exotic Animals

Hedgehog Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre is based in Germiston. They take in injured hedgehogs and rehabilitate them. They will also offer homes to unwanted hedgies and care from them until they can be homed. The great thing about this rescue centre is that they do not discriminate against other animals. They also offer their services to other exotic animals like birds, reptiles, hamsters, rabbits and rats.

How you can help: donate items on their with list which include: bowls, waterbottles, fleece, newspaper, heating pads, wheels, hay, toys, cages, F10, cleaning products and food for kittens, rats, rabbits, crested gheckos, bearded dragons and hamsters; sponsor an animal; foster an animal and adopt.

Cats and Dogs

We can't leave out cats and dogs. But there are just so many shelters giving love and support to these amazing creatures (thankfully). We couldn't fit it all into this article. Find out more about dog shelters in our Joburg Animal Rescues article. You can also read up on where to adopt pets in our nifty Best Places To Adopt A Pet article.

How you can help: As with all the other organisations on this list, the shelters mentioned in the above articles are always grateful to receive donations in the form of money, blankets, food, bowls and other items on their wishlist. The best way to help any animal charity is to adopt, don't shop.

cat

Farm Animals

Pigs

Many people take in cute little piglets without knowing the needs of such a pet. When they realise the necessities of such animals, they often realise that they are not equipped to handle this. This is where Pigs 'n' Paws steps in. They home many unwanted pet pigs and give them all the care they require. They also take in doggos and pupperinos, because, well, who could turn away a pooch?

How you can help: sponsor a pig; donate building supplies, blankets and food; contribute to vet bills and volunteer.

All Farm Animals

Asher's Farm Sanctuary is based in Pretoria, but it's well worth the visit. They rescue farm animals and offer them forever homes, providing them with food, shelter and lots of love. Their animals aren't up for adoption but visitors are welcome to tour the farm, which is free of charge. They have an on-site store and vegan café (which serves the sought-after Beyond Meat Burger) and the proceeds from these go towards the care of the animals.

How you can help: go on a tour; support their shop and café; volunteer.

goat

Wild Animals

Feral Cats

South Africa has an increasing feral cat population. Not many people or organisations know how to deal with these animals. Feral cats are not tame or stray. They are wild animals, many of which have had hard lives. Therefore, unless they are very young, they can't be homed. This does not make them a burden. They do help control the population of mice, rats, snakes and frogs. The best we can do for them is TNR - trap, neuter and return. This process involves feeding the cats in the same location everyday, the cat is then trapped so that they can be spayed or neutered. Cats can also be treated for any injuries at this stage. Then the cat is released back. Being sterilised will reduce the population over time. Several organisations can help with this such as Feral Care Friends, Feral Cat Assist and The Cat Foundation.

How you can help: provide food, water and warmth for the cats; check your car bonnet and other warm places on cold mornings before driving; donate to feral cat organisations; contact a feral cat organisation to assist with TNR and don't leave poison around for other pests like mice.

Owls

Unfortunately, South Africa has a lot of stigma about owls. As such, people fear them. Owls are also dying out because they get sick when eating poisoned rats, and other pests. Owl Rescue Centre in Hartbeespoort offers sanctuary to such owls. They home them and care for them but they never tame them. These owls get as little human contact as possible to remain wild. They take this a step further by preventing owl poisonings. How, you might ask. Well, they provide rat traps to the public, they will then collect the rodents caught in the trap and feed them to their owls. It's a win-win.

How you can help: donate money; donate plastic bottles (which they use to build owl house, bat houses and bee hives); give them your rats; don't leave out poison for pests and sponsor an owl.

Other Wild Life

Friends Of Free Wildlife is a community organisation that cares for injured or otherwise incapacitated wild animals in need of help. They are strong believers in rescuing, rehabilitation and then releasing the animals back into the wild. Animals that they help include wild birds, genets, jackals and bats. They will assist in any way that they can with any wild animal, whether they are on your property or are injured.

How you can help: volunteer your time; get a MySchool card and donate money or supplies. Click here to see their wish list.

owl

Ark Animal Centre

This amazing animal charity specialises in caring for puppies and pregnant dogs, which they take in from across Gauteng. They are self-funded and have a no-suffer policy. We love what great care they take of all the furbabies in their care. This Mandela Day, on 18 July 2019, you can spend your 67 minutes cuddling their puppies, walking the older dogs and helping out where you can. There will be drinks available at their coffee shops and you can do a little retail therapy at their second hand shop. They ask for donations of pellets and tinned food, mops and brooms, black bags, cleaning products and second hand items for their shop. If you are unable to make it on this day, you can still help out by making donations, fostering dogs, sponsoring dogs, sponsoring a sterilization, volunteering and adopting. Check out their Facebook page for more information about this event.

Find more information here

Pug Rescue

Based in Benoni, Pug Rescue South Africa rescues, rehabilitates and re-homes pugs who are found on the streets or whose owners can no longer care for them. They also take in other breeds, calling them honourary pugs. This institution has a special place in our hearts because they go out of their way to ensure that each and every pug and honourary pug receives all the love and care they deserve. They have a no kill policy, meaning all animals that can be saved from their injuries are cared for no matter how expensive or extensive their recovery is. On Sunday, 21 July 2019, you can spend your 67 minutes helping them out in honour of Mandela Day. For R67, you can spend 67 minutes spoiling one of their beloved dogs. Book a time slot, either 09:00 or 11:00, at [email protected]. If you are unable to attend or would like to do more, they ask for donations of R67, Husky dog food with gravy, wet wipes and automatic washing powder. See their Facebook events page for more.

Find more information here.

walking dog

 

A New Hope Dog Rescue

A New Hope Dog Rescue is a dog shelter in Joburg South. They rescue and re-home dogs of all shapes, sizes and breeds. This animal charity will have a Mandela Day event on Saturday, 13 July 2019 in Bryanston. All that you need to do is play with their rescues for 67 minutes at the charge of a bag of dog food. See their Facebook page for more information about this event. Other ways you can help them is by donating, fostering, supporting their shop and adopting one, or more, of their lovely pooches.

Find more information here.

SPCA Randburg

Randburg SPCA will be offering two Mandela Day events. On 18 July 2019, the SPCA is hosting an event where volunteers can spend their 67 minutes fixing and cleaning wooden kennels that will be donated to less fortunate animals in townships. The second, taking place on 27 July 2019, is their first Carnival fun day. The whole family will be able to enjoy live music, food, drinks, stalls, Junior Iron Man and make-a-treat. Pre-booking is requires, check out their Facebook page for more. Other ways you can help are to donate funds, items for their second hand shop and adopting one of their precious animals.

Find more information here.

cat

 

Santa Cause For Paws

Santa Cause For Paws is not an animal shelter. Rather, they are an online store that does everything they can to help raise much needed funds for animal shelters. They do this by running various causes, selling an array of gorgeous items and collecting donations. This year for Mandela Day they plan to pack gift buckets filled with gifts, food, treats and blankets. These buckets will be donated to animal shelters across Joburg. They are asking for volunteers to help pack the buckets and for donations of things to fill the buckets. This event is taking place in Kempton Park 14 July 2019. If you are unable to attend, you are welcome to donate money to the cause. Alternatively, you can support the online shop and purchase personalised mugs, blankets or jewellery.

Find more information here.

Kitty and Puppy Haven

This animal welfare organisation specialises in caring for and re-homing kittens and puppies, as the name suggests. Volunteers can spend their 67 minutes painting, toy and treat making. They welcome all donations, but, they require kitten and puppy food, blankets, food bowls and toys in particular. See their Facebook page for more information about this event and to see their full wish list.

Find more information here.

dog playing

 

Other Charities To Help This Mandela Day: 

Animal Allies: on 21 July 2019, Animal Allies will be holding a spay day in Katlehong. Contact them to find out more.

Pet Rescue: On 18 July 2019 spend your 67 minutes with the animals at Pet Rescue for R67, or make a donation if you can't make it. Contact them to find out more.

Other SPCAs: Unfortunately, we can't cover all the SPCAs across Joburg, contact your local SPCA to find out what they need this Mandela Day. Or put together a box with a blanket, pet food, toys, food bowls and a treat and drop it off at your local SPCA.

Wollies Animal Project: At the time of writing, Wollies had no events for Mandela Day planned, but a donation of food, money and blankets will always be appreciated.

Trix 4 Animals: This shelter is run by people who still have to work a full-time job. That's dedication. Help out this Mandela Day with donations. Contact them to find out their wishlist.

This animal charity store, located in North Riding, is one of our favourites. They offer a wide variety of good quality trinkets, at a low price. And all the proceeds go to various animal shelters. There are plenty of other reasons to shop at this good-hearted store. Here they are:

Retail Therapy

SAINTs sells a wide variety of items in their store, everything from clothing to children's toys and DVDs to vases. Their clothing comes in all sizes, colours and brands and includes t-shirts, pants, scarves, shoes, suits and even wedding dresses. They stock plush toys and dolls among others. They have DVDs ranging from series to music concerts, and vases for all occasions. But what makes them worth the visit are all their trinkets. With clown figurines, collectible mugs and shot glasses, quirky paper weights and unique fridge magnets, there is sure to be something that will add to your collection or make an interesting and affordable gift for a loved one.

Online Shopping

Don't want to go in-store? Not a problem. SAINTs has several online stores including SAINTs Gifts, SAINTs Online Boutique, SAINTs Seconds and SAINTs Odds, Sods and Accessories, among others. Here, you can see some of the best of the best items they have on offer. You can purchase these items either on a first-come-first-serve basis or by bidding for the item. Some of the items are truly unique and never-before-seen. SAINTs has also started an annual online sale of scarves, every other day they sell a few different types of scarves in all colours of the rainbow and all the proceeds go to their chosen charity. Don't fret too much if you miss one you really like, as they sometimes gets more stock due to high demand.

clothes

Events

The owner of SAINTs is also owner to the event venue, Murphy's. This venue will host any type of party you want and, of course, everything goes to animal welfare. Not only do they offer an event venue, they also sometimes host their own events such as markets and book sales. SAINTs used to hold a mid-month vegan market, showcasing the best in vegan food and beauty products. They have taken a hiatus from these markets, but we're holding thumbs that they'll be back shortly.

Book Sales

One of the most popular draws to this shop has got to be their books. They sell books for the amazing low price of just R5. Not all their books are quite so cheap, for some of these paperbacks you may have to fork out a whopping R15, but it's for charity. They offer books on every topic and in every genre and their books tend to be quite good quality - no bendy spines and dog ears here. Once every few weeks, they play host to a gigantic book sale in front of the Checkers at the same shopping centre. Here, they choose a charity, have sponsors help them out and sell a massive amount of books at a set price. There is also a trolley next to the stand, where they collect much needed items like dog food and blankets.

How You Can Help

SAINTs is first and foremost a charity store. They are self-run and self-funded and are therefore always looking for extra aid. You can help out this wonderful store by supporting them. Alternatively, you can donate item that are in a good state that you no longer use. Items they accept include home-ware, working electronics, small pieces of furniture, collectibles and memorabilia, clothing, shoes, jewellery, DVDs, CDs, games, toys and books. You are also welcome to volunteer your time, either in store or for one of their book sales. Or you can donate food, blankets, food and water bowls, tick and flea products, shampoo, leashes, collars and treats at the collection trolley at one of the book sales.

Find out more about SAINTs here.

book shopping

Volunteer

We know, we said you wouldn't have to break a sweat. And you don't. Volunteering doesn't necessarily mean painting walls or landscaping a garden. You can also donate your time doing simple things. Why not read to children at an orphanage? Or animal lovers can give some much needed love and affection to animals. You can do this by simply playing with the animals, giving them baths or taking them for walks. Check out these Animals Charities to Help Out on Mandela Day.

Donate Used Goods

It is winter and we are all feeling it down to our bones. But not everyone is able to simmer in a warm bath, pile on the blankets, fill up the hot water bottles and sip on hot cocoa. But we can help these people by donating old warm clothes, shoes, blankets and socks. You can also donate old home-ware, appliances and even toys. Just collect anything you no longer use and drop it off at one of these amazing charities.

Donate Blankets

Animals get cold, too. So, this Mandela Day, donate old blankets and towels to your favourite animal shelter or SPCA. Don't have any old blankets to donate? No sweat! Pep sells grey and white blankets for just R59.99*. Or, you can get 10 blankets at Westpack for just R219.90*. You'll be sleeping a lot better at night, and the dogs and cats at the animal shelters will, too.

Become A Blood Donor

Blood donations are needed for patients who have blood diseases, need operations and who have suffered traumas. However, blood can be a scarcity in the winter months. This is because with outbreaks of colds and flu, many regular donors are unable to donate regularly. By donating just once, you can save up to three lives! Find out more and where you can donate blood here.

donate

Become A Bone Marrow Donor

We all know how much Madiba loved kids. Unfortunately, many of these little treasures suffer from diseases that can only be cured with the help of matching blood marrow. You can register to be a bone marrow donor. All you need to do is give a sample of blood, which will be tissue-typed and added to a database. If you are matched, you'll go for further testing and then donate to save a life. Join the South African Bone Marrow Registry here.

Become An Organ Donor

As with bone marrow, many children, and adults, are dying each year because of failing organs. The only thing that can save them is a healthy donor organ. You can register to become an organ donor and your organs can be used to save a life, even after you are gone. Find out more about the Organ Donor Foundation here.

Collect Change

Many charity organisations desperately need funds. While not all of us are able to donate a significant amount, we can still help. The concept is simple. Set a time limit, such as a year, get a tin and for the whole year collect all your change. At the end of the time limit, donate the change to your charity of choice. The amount really builds up over time.

Feed The Homeless

Whether humans or animals, there are many left starving in our city. Everyone can help them by collecting tins of food or other non-perishable items and donating them to orphanages, churches, old age homes or animal shelters.

* Prices correct at time of writing.

money jar

Saints

This is an animal charity shop based in North Riding. They offer a little bit of everything, like books, clothes, toys, DVDs, electronic devices and novelty items. This is a great store because you can get items for as little as R5. Saints doesn't leave it up to just their store either. They also have monthly book sales, where you can expect to pay R15 a book, at most, and all the funds go to a chosen charity. All the more interesting items go on auction on their Facebook page, so be sure to keep a keen eye out. And if all this wasn't enough, they also hire out an event venue, Murphy's, where all proceeds go to charity. Murphy's often hosts events to raise money for animal welfare such as their mid month vegan markets.

Find more information here.

SPCA Shops

Most SPCAs have a charity shop on site. These can offer a range of items for re-sale. The most popular items are second-hand books. These shops are a great place to go on a hunt for that paperback that you need to complete your collection. It is also a good place to search for books to gift an avid reader whose tastes you're not familiar with. Best of all, these books are very affordable. Here is a list of the SPCAs in South Africa.

Find more information here.

Tails and Whiskers

This shop in Edenvale collects household items to sell for animal charities. The sell a huge range of items such as DVDs, CDs, baking ware, collectibles and jewellery. They also have sales on Saturdays and auctions on Sundays if you are searching for a bargain. Every few months, they host wonderful charity markets, where you can browse what they have to offer, have a chat with the super friendly staff and be around like-minded people.

Find more information here.

Paw Prints

This charity shop is located in Edenvale. They also have drop off locations in Centurion and Rouxville. This store works solely on donations from their supporters. They accept donations of any high quality item and sell them online. The profit then goes to animal charities to feed and care for the many animals who do not have homes. Their main beneficiaries are SPCAs around Gauteng, Humans Helping Animals and Cape of Good Hope SPCA.

Find more information here.

Re-Sale Therapy

This charity shop specialises in good quality, second-hand items. They also have an online boutique, where you can purchase some beautiful, quality clothing available in all colours and sizes. They also offer prizes as rewards for people to donate to various animal charities.

Find more information here.

Santa Cause for Paws

Despite it's name, this online store operates year round. They sell specialised mugs that have adorable animated images of every dog and cat breed you can think of. You can also get a mug with one of your own pets printed on it. This makes a much appreciated gift for any animal lover. During the Christmas season, they sell Christmas baubles tree that can be personalised with the name of your pets. They also offer blankets, crochet toys, dog treats and jewellery. If you would like to do more, they often have drives to donate to a specific cause. This includes their Christmas drives where they ask supporters to fill up a box for a puppy, kitten, dog or cat. These boxes need to be filled with two edible items, a blanket, a toy and something needed. These boxes then get donated to charities. You can pledge to donate your own box here.

Find more information here.

Why Adopt

There are many misconceptions out there that animals in shelters are broken, that you can't find the breed you want and that there are only old animals available. None of these could be further from the truth. Shelter animals are full of love and affection, and still have a full life to live and loads to offer. They are also available in any age, breed, gender and colour your could wish for. There are many shelters that are breed specific, too. Here, we don't discriminate against age, gender or breed so we stuck to shelters that offer diversity.

An added benefit of adopting is that you'll save a fortune. Buying pets can easily costs an arm and a leg. And you will still need to take your new pet to the vet for all their shots, deworming and micro-chipping. Shelters on the other hand, include all of these in their adoption fee. At shelters, you'll also have the option of adopting older pets, who tend to already be house-trained and more calm and well-behaved than younger animals.

Dogs

Irwin Animal Rescue

Irwin Animal Rescue Centre NPC is based in De Deur. They rescue, rehabilitate and re-home animals who are abused and neglected. This shelter takes in dogs of any breed, shape, size, colour and age and offers them a mid-way home until they can find furever homes. One only need go through the photos on their Facebook page to see how happy and full-of-life the dogs in their care are. This is definitely the place to find older dogs of any breed, suitable to any family or lifestyle.

Find more information here.

Paws R Us

Based in Midrand, Paws R Us rescues, shelters and re-homes unwanted dogs and strays from across Johannesburg. This no-kill shelter has over 200 dogs in their care, and are working hard to build a Paws Haven. When visiting this site, you'll be amazed at all the love and affection you'll receive from these lovely furbabies. They have dogs of all shapes and sizes including small and large dogs. So, pay them a visit if you're in search of your next lap dog or wanna-be lap dog.

Find more information here.

A New Hope Rescue

This shelter, in Joburg South, fosters unwanted dogs until they can be re-homed. They care for all types of dogs, and even a few pups! All the dogs here have hilarious personalities and attitudes, so this is just the place to adopt the next Instagram star. They have a large variety of smaller dogs including Dachshunds, Terriers, Jack Russells and mixed breeds (our personal favourite) for those without a large garden.

Find more information here.

dog

Cats

Kitty Shelter

Kitty Shelter is a no-kill welfare organisation in Norwood. They care for both adults and kittens. The adoption price, which is much less than buying a cat, includes sterilization and up-to-date vaccinations. They work on a foster programme, where their kittens and cats are cared for by foster families until they find their furever homes. This means that the animals here are already used to people, other animals and kids.

Find more information here.

Kitty and Puppy Haven

This no-kill shelter specialises in puppies and kittens, hence the name. Their animals come from veterinarian practices, low income areas and welfare organisations. They give every animal medical care and will not consider euthanisation. And we must say - these animals are absolutely adorable. One doesn't have to browse far down their Facebook page to fall in love.

Find more information here.

SPCA

The SPCA has a branch in almost all towns across Joburg. They take in any animal irrespective of the type, gender, colour, breed or age. Their Cattery always has many different cats. Whether it be kittens or adults; mixed or pure bred; male or female. What we love about the cats here are their various attitudes. There's always the friendly cat, trying to get as close to you as possible. As well as the playful kitten, the chatty fur ball and the shy one hiding behind the rest. Adopting an animal here is cheaper than other shelters. And, they will also give your future furbaby all their shots, anti-parasite treatments, a chip and even a care package.

Find their various branches here.

cat

Others

Rabbits

We all love cute, furry and oh-so adorable bunnies. However not everyone is able to give them the proper care they require. Some people will re-home their pet rabbits but others choose to release them in parks. However, pet rabbits are domesticated and are therefore unable to care for themselves in the wild. Berario Bunnies and The Strawberry Foundation both rescue these rabbits from the park. They also provide homes for rabbits whose owners are unable to care for them. They will feed and care for these rabbits until they are able to find a furever home.

Find out more information about Barario Bunnies here and The Strawberry Foundation here.

Exotic animals

Despite its name, Hedgehog Rescue and Rehabilitation cares for most exotic animals. These include hedgehogs, rats, rabbits, hamsters, reptiles and birds. They take in injured or unwanted animals and rehabilitate and care for them until they are homed. Get in contact with them to find out what you need to know about the needs of exotic pets before adopting one. And if you decide to adopt, Hedgehog Rescue is able to help you find a loving and adorable scaled, feathered or quilled friend.

Find our more information here.

Pigs

Pigs are some of the smartest and cutest animals around. And they certainly make some of the best pets - for those that are able to care for them. Unfortunately many aren't, hence their own shelter in Hennops. Pigs n Paws take in pigs and dogs, and allow them to roam freely on their small holding. If you're looking to adopt a pig, dog or both, and are able to care for them, pay them a visit and meet their feisty furries.

Find out more information here.

hedgehog

What Is It?

For a great day out while contributing to a fantastic cause, don't miss out on Love Paws #3! This amazing concert series has grown steadily each year, as hundreds of Joburgers join the great cause of Love Paws and enjoy an awesome day of phenomenal music from some of South Africa's top bands, all in support of the animals.

Guests can expect to catch Ard Matthews, The Parlotones, Arno Carstens, Wonderboom, Matthew Mole and Rubber Duc live on stage, hosted by Darren Scott! The concert always takes place at a top-notch venue, and this year is no different with Casalinga Ristorante. Featuring a range of mouth-watering refreshments from various vendors, everyone is guaranteed to have a great time.

Love Paws Concert

Please Note: Given the sheer crowd size and the venue restrictions, pets cannot be accommodated at this event. However, this event directly benefits hundreds of shelter animals at the various beneficiaries including PAWS R US (SA), Woodrock Animal Rescue, and 4PAWS, as well as the ground-breaking work of ONE Revolution Foundation.

Love Paws Concert

When Is It?

Saturday, 30 March 2019 from 10:00 – 19:00.

Where Is It?

Casalinga Ristorante, Plot 328, Rocky Ridge Road, off Beyers Naude Drive, Muldersdrift.

How Much Is It?

Tickets cost between R100 and R650 per person and can be bought at www.howler.co.za.

Tickets cost R360 per person at the gate (depending on availability).

Make sure you book your tickets ASAP as these concerts sell out fast. 2019 is all set to be a record-breaker with more than 3 000 people attending.

Love Paws Concert

For More Information

For more information about this event, visit Casalinga Ristorante's Facebook page.

Click here for more information about the event.

WIN!

WIN Tickets To The Love Paws Concert!

What Is It?

Montecasino is spreading the colour of hope over a three-day family-friendly CANSA Shavathon this March, giving all visitors the chance to support cancer survivors by spraying or shaving their heads.

The CANSA Shavathon has become renowned across the country as an event that delivers fun, comaraderie, joy, and most importantly, hope. This year marks the 16th national Shavathon and the theme is #ColouringHope.

The aim is to shave or spray as many people over the weekend as possible, to raise much-needed funds for CANSA’s unique, integrated service and holistic care and support for those affected by cancer.

The spirit of ‘being a part of something special’ will permeate throughout the precinct over the weekend, with local celebrities and influencers adding their support to the cause and bringing their shaving and spraying skills to the Shavathon station.

When Is It?

Friday, 08 March 2019 to Sunday, 10 March 2019 from 10:00 – 17:00.

Where Is It?

The Promotional Stage at Montecasino, Montecasino Boulevard, corner William Nicol and Witkoppen, Fourways, Johannesburg.

How Much Is It?

Show your support in one of three ways:

To partake, all you have to do is donate R50 per adult and R25 per child under the age of 12.

For More Information

For more information about this event, visit www.tsogosun.com.

What Is It?

The West Rand’s favourite entertainment destination, Silverstar is hosting a family-friendly CANSA Shavathon, giving all visitors the chance to show their support for cancer patients by spraying or shaving their heads.

The CANSA Shavathon has become synonymous with camaraderie, the feel-good factor, and most importantly, hope all in a fun and positive setting. This year the theme is #ColouringHope.

The Silverstar Shavathon's aim will be to shave or spray as many people that day as possible, to raise much-needed funds for CANSA’s unique, integrated service and holistic care and support for those affected by cancer.

The spirit of ‘being a part of something special’ will permeate throughout the casino  over the weekend, with local celebrities and influencers adding their support to the cause by bringing their shaving and spraying skills to the Shavathon station and having their heads sprayed or shaved.

When Is It?

Friday, 08 March 2019 from 10:00 until 19:00 and Saturday, 09 March 2019 from 10:00 until 14:00.

Where Is It?

The Square at Silverstar Casino, R28, Muldersdrift, Johannesburg.

How Much Is It?

A nominal donation of R50 per adult and R25 per child under 12 is all you need to show your support.

For More Information

For more information on the CANSA Shavathon and on what’s happening at Silverstar, visit www.silverstar.co.za.

Be the first to know the latest Silverstar news on Facebook @SilverstarZA or follow them on Twitter @SilverstarZA #LoveSilverstar.

What Is It?

The Garmin Super Kids Fun Day at Jozi X Adventure Centre is a SUPER fun day out for the whole family. And to make it even more exciting, kids completing the inflatable obstacle course stand a chance of winning amazing prizes. The feel-good factor? All proceeds from the event go to the CHOC charity for children with cancer. It's the season for giving, so why not do your good deed here?

When Is It?

Saturday, 08 December 2018 from 09:00 – 13:00.

Where Is It?

Jozi X Adventure Centre, corner Main and Sloane Roads, Bryanston, Johannesburg.

How Much Is It?

R50 per super kid. Book your spot now by donating R50 per child to CHOC.

For More Information

For more information, visit www.jozix.co.za. Or check out their Facebook event page.

1. Besides being amazing at what you do we've seen that you are involved with things that affect the society and understand that action needs to be taken. Which brings us to ask why this initiative is close to your heart?

There is no particular reason, this is just an opportunity to help someone or to save a life, with very little effort from my side. I feel like it’s the right thing to do. I potentially have the cure for someone’s life threatening disease in my blood. This initially drove me to sign up and donate.

2. To someone who hasn't heard about the Sunflower Fund, how will you go about explaining it?

I’m amazed whenever I speak to people in the entertainment industry, how little true awareness there is about this cause. Everyone knows of The Sunflower Fund but most people don’t realise that registering as a donor is so simple and you can save a life. The Sunflower Fund fights blood diseases like Leukaemia through the recruitment of stem cell donors and maintaining a registry of potential donors committed to helping anyone in need of a life-saving stem cell transplant. They fund-raise to cover the cost of education and awareness about the need for this and the process to become a blood stem cell donor as well as to cover the cost of the Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) tissue-typing test involved in the recruitment of donors.

The Sunflower Fund also maintains a patient support fund to assist patients who are unable to afford costs associated with getting to transplant as well as being actively involved in creating a platform for support structures to assist patients, families and communities.

3. Social media is a huge platform for us to communicate with the outside world, do you think it has played a role for you to be able to reach out to people about this initiative?

Not me personally, but social media makes it easier for The Sunflower fund to get their message out. For me, it then also makes it easier, going forward, to support them in getting the message out there.

4. In what way would you say your voice plays a role in this initiative especially being a public figure?

Being a public figure means carrying some sort of influence over others, people also sit up and listen a little closer when you speak. They want to know what you’re doing and this helps spread the message. So I use my platform to try and save lives as well as bring happiness and laughter to people.

5. Explain for 5 marks, what Stem cell donation is, and what they are used for?

Stem cells are immature cells that can develop into any cell present in the bloodstream: red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets and other blood components. Blood stem cells are not embryonic stem cells. They come from bone marrow, circulating (peripheral) blood or umbilical cord blood. People whose diseases inhibit their ability to produce these kinds of cells need a transplant of healthy stem cells from a donor. It is similar to donating platelets. Every year, thousands of individuals worldwide with blood diseases such as leukaemia, marrow failure or aplasia, and inherited metabolic and immune deficiency syndromes reach a stage where only a stem cell transplant can drive the disease into remission.

How it happens: Blood is drawn out of one arm, it goes through a cell separator machine that extracts the stem cells from the blood and your blood is pumped backed into your body via the other arm. These stem cells are then used for people who have blood diseases.

Side Note: We could tell someone was well informed and informed us in return about the procedure, so we went ahead and gave him a 5/5. Heavy Check Mark on SoftBank 2014Heavy Check Mark on SoftBank 2014Heavy Check Mark on SoftBank 2014Heavy Check Mark on SoftBank 2014Heavy Check Mark on SoftBank 2014

7. Since we are all seeking to be active agents of social change, how do we get involved with the Sunflower Fund?

To register as a donor is simple and takes less than 10 minutes. If you are between 18 and 45 years, with a weight of more than 50kgs and a BMI of less than 40, you could be eligible to register as a donor. You can also support the Sunflower Fund by buying the signature product – Tube of Hope (TOPE) is sold nationally. The sale of this multi-purpose accessory enables The Sunflower Fund to cover the tissue-typing test cost involved in recruiting donors. Wearing it is also a statement of hope and salute to all patients, survivors and the families of those that have lost the battle against blood diseases like leukaemia and aplastic anaemia. If you don’t match the eligibility criteria to be a donor, you can still support. A simple SMS of the word ‘Sunflower’ to 40555 is a R30 donation to The Sunflower Fund.

Nicholas Goliath

8. What will you be doing on the 21st of September which is Sunflower Day?

My Sunflower day will be completely dedicated to creating awareness. I’ll be doing an interview on eNCA about this day and the cause then I’ll be using the day and spreading the message on social media. There are quite a few activities that the Sunflower Fund has planned across the month into early next month. On the 21st, the day will be commemorated with a public donor drive at The Century City Hotel in Cape Town and will be followed by a donor drive in Maponya Mall Soweto on 13 October.

9. In what ways would you like to see the foundation grow in the coming years?

South Africa needs a very diverse registry of committed donors. Blood diseases are not racist, they attack anyone from any race group and any religion, age or gender. I’d like to see more people of colour registered. It is important because there is such a need for people of colour to donate, it helps the registry grow and increases the chances of so many patients finding a match, and essentially, we’re looking to save lives.

10. Lastly, what cool projects outside of this one are you besig (busy) with at the moment?

Currently we’re busy with the Goliath and Goliath Comedy Tour, I’m also working with my team, actively building my brand so my influence can stretch further as I advocate for causes such as these.

For More Information

Follow the Sunflower fund through their website, Instagram, Twitter and Facebook Sunflower on Mozilla Firefox OS 2.5

Follow Nicholas Goliath on his Instagram, Twitter, Facebook or simply visit this website.

What Is It?

You know how pub crawls work! Meet up at Point A, have a drink. Mission to Point B, have another drink (or two). Stagger onwards to Point C and brave another drink. And on it goes. Jozi Pub Crawl is hosting yet another crawl through the city and this time it's going to be "a-maze-ing". Start the crawl at Honeydew Mazes (find one of the Jozi Pub Crawl staff members who has the bottle of gin), then hop onto the bus, which will take you to Tigers Milk in Fourways. From there, you'll head to 011 Gin Bar in Dainfern. The best thing about this event? You'll be having a blast while also supporting a good cause.

Jozi Pub Crawl are raising funds for people who cannot afford a blanket during the chilly season, so R50 from every ticket sold for this pub crawl will go to Dorcas Aid. They work closely with the City of Joburg and help people who have been affected by disasters and homelessness to get back on their feet.

When Is It?

Saturday, 04 August 2018 from 13:00 - 18:30.

Where Is It?

The meeting point is Honeydew Mazes at 13:00.

Pub crawlers will then head to:

How Much Is It?

Tickets start at R500 per person and can be bought from Quicket.co.za.

For More Information

For more information about this event, visit jozipubcrawl.co.za or check them out on Facebook.

Also, visit their Facebook event page.

Wetnose Animal Rescue Centre

This one is a little further out from the city, but they deserve a mention! Wet Nose Animal Rescue Centre is a registered non-profit organisation that has been running since April 1999. The kind souls that run this centre are devoted to rescuing, rehabilitating and re-homing abandoned, abused and neglected animals. Here, they believe in the right to life, which means they don't euthanise animals that don't find their furever homes within a certain time frame; they only consider it in the most extreme cases – that being if the animal is suffering. Your donations go towards the sterilisation, de-worming, vaccinating and microchipping of their resident fur babies, as well as any other medical treatment they may need, telephone expenses, petrol, salaries, electricity bills and constant maintenance to the property and kennels.

How you can help: Make a donation; adopt a pet; support their vet; sponsor a kennel.

Details: www.wetnose.co.za | [email protected] | 013 932 3941 | Plot 75, Old BHS/Pta Road, Vaalbank, Bronkhorstspruit (50km east of Pretoria).

Ark Animal Centre – Puppy Shelter

Ark Animal Centre (PBO Number: 930053318) is the only shelter that specifically caters for pregnant dogs and puppies. They specialise in rehabilitating and re-homing puppies, pregnant dogs and small breeds from all types of backgrounds. The non-profit, no-suffer shelter takes in puppies from all over the country and homed 100 dogs in their first 100 days after opening in July 2011 – a first in welfare! Other than taking care of little doggy families, they also offer an adoption centre, a welfare spay and neuter clinic, a luxury dog hotel for smaller breeds, an educational school programme for students and a pet product store complete with food, treats and accessories for your four-legged companion.

How you can help: Make a donation; fostering pups; sponsor a puppy or dog; sponsor a sterilisation; support their partners; volunteer.

Details: www.arkanimalcentre.co.za | [email protected] | 087 742 2211 | 17 Howard Avenue, Chartwell, Johannesburg.

Animal Rescues

4Paws Animal Shelter

Established in July 2006, 4Paws Animal Shelter in Diepsloot is a registered NPO that aims to improve the quality of life of underprivileged animals and feral cats. A huge issue in poor areas is that people simply do not have the means, transport or finances to provide their animals with basic healthcare, which is where 4Paws steps in to provide primary healthcare services, veterinary treatments and sterilisations, FREE of charge. Because of this, they rely completely on the kindness and donations of animal lovers. They also take in, rehabilitate and re-home fur babies looking for a loving family.

How you can help: Make a donation; donation of second-hand, good quality home, garden or office items for resale; animal essentials such as baskets, blankets, metal baths, etc; volunteer.

Details: www.4ourpaws.org.za | [email protected] | 083 377 3219 | Plot 125, Diepsloot, R511, Johannesburg.

Dogtown SA

Dogtown SA (NPO number: 095-264; PBO number: 930032491) is a safe haven for dogs who have lost their families or have been rescued. Every day, the dedicated team at Dogtown give individual care to each of these rescued dogs in a happy and loving environment while they wait for their furever homes to come knocking. There are plenty of wonderful dogs at Dogtown SA who are just wishing and hoping for a second chance at a new life in a loving family. Even if you can't take one of these lovely souls home, you can certainly help out in other ways.

How you can help: Make a donation; sponsor a Dogtown friend; support fundraising events; buy their merchandise; volunteer.

Details: www.barkingmad.co.za | [email protected] | 076 044 1979 / 073 092 7800 | Plot 100, Schuverberg, Hartebeestpoort, North-West.

Animal Rescues

Paws R Us

PAWS R US (SA) was founded in 2011 and focuses on educating the public and rescuing and re-homing abandoned, unwanted or 'threatened' dogs in the Gauteng area. You can make a difference to their rescue babies' lives not only through donations, but also by contributing to their wish list or volunteering. They'd appreciate volunteer dog walkers to assist them on Saturdays, as well as DIY and gardening enthusiasts, plumbing folk and a few other roles to help them work better and smarter to expand their reach.

How you can help: Make a donation, contribute to their wish list, volunteer.

Details: www.pawsrus.co.za | [email protected] | Cadeau Kennels, 22 Summit Road, Midrand, Johannesburg.

Woodrock Animal Rescue

Each and every animal deserves to be part of a loving and stable home and family, which is why Woodrock Animal Rescue is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating and re-homing dogs. They're a non-profit, pro-life facility located in Gauteng (103-156 NPO), originally from Woodmead and Khyber Rock, (hence the name) and now based on 8.5 hectares in the beautiful Hennops River Valley. Woodrock Animal Rescue is home to over 130 animals (mostly dogs) who need furever homes. So, if you're looking to expand your family with a new four-legged companion, pay them a visit between Tuesday and Sunday.

How you can help: Make a donation; adopt a fur kid; contribute to their wish list; volunteer; support their pet hotel.

Details: www.woodrockanimalrescue.com | [email protected] | 076 155 4439 | Plot 51, on the R511 between Fourways and Hartbeespoort, Hennops River Valley.

Animal Rescue

Kitty & Puppy Haven

Kitty and Puppy Haven is a pro-life sanctuary which started in 2000 with the sole purpose of rescuing neglected, abused and abandoned animals. They educate the public on correct animal care and they also provide the animals in their care with the best medical attention, dietary requirements and love and attention while they're nursed back to health and await placement in their furever homes. The facility will not euthanise any animals if they can be healed and live a healthy, pain-free, happy life.

How you can help: Make a donation; donate food stuffs; contribute to their wish list; adopt a fur kid.

Details: www.kittypuppyhaven.org.za | [email protected] | 010 224 0760 / 0763 | 37 Modderfontein Road, President Park, Midrand, Johannesburg

Sandton SPCA

Probably one of the most well-known animal rescues in the city, the Sandton SPCA is a non-profit organisation that relies solely on the generosity of the general public for financial support. Their aim is to protect animals from cruelty and provide a place of safety and care for all animals in distress. And when they say all animals, they mean ALL animals – from wildlife, equine and farm animals to marine life and animals used for experimentation. Other than protecting, rehabilitating and rehoming animals, they also offer a clinic, a lost and found service, inspections and a youth programme.

How you can help: Make a donation; host a birthday fundraiser; volunteer; contribute to their wish list; adopt a pet.

Details: www.sandtonspca.org.za | [email protected] | 011 444 7730 | 9th Street, Marlboro Gardens, Sandton, Johannesburg.

Animal Rescue

Soweto Animal Rescue & Advisory Centre (SARAC)

If you listened to Whackhead's morning shows on 94.7, you'll know all about SARAC and Jerry. The Soweto Animal Rescue & Advisory Centre is on a mission is to improve the lives of animals in Soweto and its surrounds by changing peoples' attitudes towards animals, hosting educational classes and enlisting the help of children (called Jerry’s Rangers) to provide a sanctuary for animals in need. They also assist the community with sterilisation, dipping, de-worming and medical care of animals.

How can you can help: Adopt a pet, volunteer, make a donation, contribute to their wish list.

Details: www.sarac.co.za | [email protected] | 084 911 9459 | 595 Bennet Street, Zuurbekom, Soweto, Johannesburg

Animal Rescue

Pug Rescue

A lot of people speak highly of this place, which is proof that their passion for animals shines through and we absolutely think this is beautiful, because every animal needs a Hooman to love for the rest of their lives. Pug Rescue South Africa rescues, rehabilitates and re-homes unwanted, abandoned, neglected and surrendered dogs in South Africa. They also offer welfare assistance where and when needed to Pugs and honourary pugs, they never turn down any animal which is what makes them close and dear to our hearts. They go the extra mile for each and every animal, providing them with the best medical care and all the love they so desperately long for. They are proudly sponsored by Dogs Haven and is also the home for Pickle the Dwarf Pug. They offer sanctuary to Pugs who do not find homes and a retirement offering to old pugs. This place is definitely one to check out.

How you can help: Make a donation; apply for a Myplanet card; volunteer; contribute to their wish list; adopt a pet; sponsor a sanctuary pug/honourary pug.

Details: www.pugrescue.co.za | [email protected] | 082 508 0384 | Pugs H(e)aven, 80/1 Nielsen Road, Benoni North Argicultural Holdings, Benoni, Johannesburg.

There are many other animal shelters throughout the city, this is just a handful where you can help and donate to a wonderful cause and make a fur baby's life a little bit brighter. If you know of any other places, please do mention them below. 

What Is It?

All Cancer Warriors, their families and friends are invited to join the Breast Health Foundation for the second annual 4km One Step at a Time Cancer Warrior Walk at the Johannesburg Zoo early this February to commemorate World Cancer Day. One Step at a Time is an initiative of the Breast Health Foundation, symbolic of personal triumph and victory from diagnosis, treatment to survivorship. This event is a symbolic message of defiance to go out to all people fighting cancer and stand as an example of what is possible. Exercise plays a very important role in long-term health and walking is an ideal form of exercise that can be enjoyed by the survivors, their families and supporters.

Also, don't forget to take a stroll and enjoy the Wellness Village, which will be offer participants a variety of food trucks as well as prize draws. Each R10 donated equates to one entry into the prize draws after the walk.

A limited amount of goodie bags will be given to the first gate entries on the morning of the event, so get there early to avoid disappointment. Make sure you park at the main zoo entrance in the parkade, which is accessed via Upper Park Drive from 5:00am.

This event is child and wheelchair friendly.

When Is It?

Sunday, 03 February 2018 from 06:00 - 13:00 (walk starts at 08:30).

Where Is It?

The Johannesburg Zoo, Jan Smuts Avenue and Upper Park Drive, Parkview, Johannesburg.

How Much Is It?

You can enter as an individual or as a team. Individual tickets cost R120 per person online at Ticketpros and R130 per person at the gate.

For More Information

For more information about this event, visit www.mybreast.org.za or check them out on Facebook.

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