South Africans are banding together to support PAWS R US in finding a new shelter for 130 dogs after their current site faces demolition, showcasing the power of community and compassion.
Johannesburg, South Africa (13 March 2024) – A sanctuary for those who cannot speak for themselves – PAWS R US – is in dire need of our help and South Africans are stepping up to do what they can.
For over a decade, this nonprofit organisation has provided vital assistance to countless dogs in need of rescue, shelter, and a second chance at life. But recently, their future was cast into uncertainty with the news of their shelter site being sold, threatening to uproot their operations.
In a heartfelt plea to their community, PAWS R US shared the heartbreaking news on social media. “Humans, I’m afraid we don’t have good news tonight,” they began. “Our dream was within reach – we were already colouring it in. A new shelter site. A new start. However, it has shattered around us today.”
“Regular followers of our page will know that the property on which our site is based is being sold. It’s a cash buyer, and a few days ago we heard that zoning permissions had been given for the buyer to demolish everything on site and build a restaurant/venue. We’re trying to get clarity, but payment may be concluded by month-end.”
The organisation is doing its best to negotiate staying on the site until the end of April as it takes time to find a suitable property for 130 dogs, collapse infrastructure in the old space, and build infrastructure in a new space
“We had identified a wonderful new space to move to. It literally came like a heaven-sent blessing. However, timing would be crucial for it all to work out. The existing people/animals on the new property would need to move out in time for us to move in. And of course, it would need to sync with the timing of our exodus from our current site. Just like the ripple of a set of dominoes. We’ve held our breath, said our prayers, and rooted for the outcome we need.”
Unfortunately, yesterday, they heard that the timing was not going to flow. The prospect of the new home is not going to be ready in time for them to move in. And, as such, PAWS R US have nowhere to go. The animal organisation explained that if they can negotiate their moving-out date to the end of April, they will be stranded.
Despite facing the imminent demolition of their current site and the daunting task of relocating 130 dogs, PAWS R US has refused to lose hope.
“This is a heavy, heavy blow when we are so mindful of the lives in our care – both our shelter dogs and our staff. We are going to dig deep, and we’re going to hold onto our faith that a solution will present itself. As big an ask, as it is. We’ve seen miracles play itself out too many times over the last 13 years, not to believe it can happen again.”
They reached out to their supporters with a clear vision of what they needed to weather this storm. From suitable property in the Bluehills/Sun Valley/Kyalami/Midrand area to essential materials for constructing dog runs, their call for assistance echoed far and wide.
What happened next has been nothing short of miraculous. Within a few hours, the post garnered hundreds of shares and comments as South Africans from all walks of life are rallying behind PAWS R US. From offering leads on potential properties to tagging major media outlets and spreading the word, the outpouring of support has been overwhelming.
“We need every single one of you,” PAWS R US emphasized. “Maybe, maybe, with that kind of collective energy, we can find the miracle we need.”
And we believe that collective energy is alive with possibility. In the face of adversity, the resilience and compassion of the South African community is shining brightly. Each share, each donation, and each word of encouragement is a lifeline for PAWS R US and the dogs they care for.
This is not just a story about a shelter in need; it’s a story of hope, resilience, and the remarkable kindness that flourishes when people come together for a common cause.
If you can assist in any way, please click here.
This is an ongoing story. We will keep you updated.
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