National Rescue Dog Day, celebrated annually on May 20th, is a special day dedicated to raising awareness about the countless dogs in shelters awaiting their forever homes. This day is not only about raising awareness but also about inspiring action—giving hope and a loving home to our furry friends who need it most.
In SA, the number of rescue dogs is alarmingly high. Shelters and rescue organisations are overwhelmed with the sheer volume of abandoned, neglected, and stray dogs. According to recent statistics, thousands of dogs are surrendered to shelters every year, and only a fraction of them find new homes.
This National Rescue Dog Day, BackaBuddy has put together a list of ways you can get involved and help give hope to a furry friend.
How You Can Help:
- Adopt: Open your heart and home to a rescue dog. Adoption not only saves a life but also enriches your own with the love and companionship of a grateful friend
- Foster: Offer temporary care for dogs until they find their permanent families. Fostering provides a safe and loving environment for dogs to thrive while they wait for their forever homes.
- Volunteer: Lend your time and skills to local shelters and rescue organisations. Whether it’s walking dogs, assisting with adoption events, or helping with administrative tasks, every bit helps.
- Donate: Support the essential work of animal rescue groups through financial contributions. Donations help provide food, medical care, and shelter for dogs in need.
Places in Need: Where to Adopt in South Africa
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Animal Anti-Cruelty League (AACL)
Website: www.aacl.org.za
Contact: 011 435 0672
Donate to AACL on BackaBuddy
Mission: Since 1956, the AACL has been a home for abused and neglected animals. They provide shelter, rehabilitation, and adoption services, ensuring each dog finds a loving home.
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SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals)
Website: www.nspca.co.za
Contact: 011 907 3590
Donate to SPCA on BackaBuddy
The SPCA operates nationwide, committed to preventing animal cruelty and promoting responsible pet ownership. Their shelters offer refuge and rehoming for countless dogs in need.
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Woodrock Animal Rescue
Website: www.woodrockanimalrescue.co.za
Contact: 082 925 3133
Donate to Woodrock Animal Rescue on BackaBuddy
Mission: One of South Africa’s largest independent animal rescues, Woodrock provides sanctuary and loving homes for dogs in need, advocating for animal rights and welfare.
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Husky Rescue South Africa
Website: www.huskyrescue.co.za
Contact: 083 640 8827
Mission: Specializing in Siberian Huskies and Nordic breeds, this organisation provides a network of support for these unique dogs, ensuring they find suitable, loving homes.
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TEARS Animal Rescue
Website: www.tears.org.za
Contact: 021 785 4482
Mission: Based in Cape Town, TEARS rescues, rehabilitates, and rehomes abandoned and abused animals. Their community outreach programs aim to create lasting change for animal welfare.
By adopting a rescue dog, you not only give a deserving animal a second chance at life but also help reduce the strain on shelters. Each adoption opens up space for another dog in need. This National Rescue Dog Day, consider making a difference by adopting, fostering, or supporting these incredible organisations.
Give hope to a furry friend and experience the unconditional love and gratitude that only a rescue dog can offer.
