The Dunoon fire has left homes destroyed, families displaced, and pet owners forced to say very hard goodbyes in the hope that their furry companions will find stability, safety, and care.
Dunoon, South Africa (12 January 2026) – A fierce fire tore through Site 5 in the Dunoon informal settlement over the weekend, leaving homes reduced to ash and an entire community displaced.
City teams alongside organisations have been on the ground in large numbers, helping residents, clearing debris, and preparing to assist with reconstruction.
The flames may be out, but the devastation is still very much alive
The Cape of Good Hope SPCA returned to the site as part of the City of Cape Town’s Disaster Risk Management on-site joint operations centre, engaging in large-scale search and rescue recovery efforts.
The SPCA teams have been most touched by the families who fled with nothing but the clothes on their backs and faced the heartbreaking choices of letting their companion animals go.
“With no shelter, no food, and no certainty of what comes next, they’re asking us to find their pets a future, knowing that their circumstances mean they can’t be part of it,” the SPCA shared in a post.
Because rebuilding their lives will demand everything they have, responsible yet heartbroken pet owners have been saying very hard goodbyes as they surrender the animals who had become family.
“Temporary safe custody has been offered but many are selflessly choosing surrender in the hope their pets will find stability, safety, and care.”
Numerous injured animals have also been discovered among the debris and brought forward, requiring treatment for burn wounds, dehydration and shock.
“It’s suffering that tells the story of the fire in ways words cannot.”
The tragedy and demand for urgent animal care come at a time when the SPCA’s resources are already stretched, following the festive season surge of animals in need.
“We are preparing for more. More rescues. More injuries. More lives depending on compassion in action. If you are wondering what happens after the flames disappear, this is it.”
To help the SPCA continue attending to injured, vulnerable and defenceless animals, you can help with a donation that will, in turn, help the team provide emergency treatment, shelter, food, and care as this recovery unfolds.
Donations can be made via this link or the banking details below:
- Bank: Standard Bank
- Branch: 025309 / 051001 (internet banking)
- Account Number: 071832858
- SWIFT: SBZA ZA JJ
- Account Type: Cheque
- Account Name: The Cape of Good Hope SPCA
- Beneficiary Reference: Your Name\email + Dunoon Fire
- Proof of payment may be sent to: dbadmin@spca-ct.co.za
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