Although the dogs and cats at the 50-acre sanctuary are safe, the fire has left widespread damage and highlighted the urgent need for better firefighting equipment.
Pretoria, South Africa (09 November 2026) – The aftermath of a devastating fire has left the Dogtown South Africa sanctuary facing a difficult recovery, with the organisation now appealing to the public for help to better protect the animals in its care.
A visit to the property in the days following the blaze revealed a landscape transformed by the flames, with charred trees and vegetation, ash covering the ground, and the lingering smell of smoke serving as a reminder of how close the sanctuary came to disaster.
The organisation has also expressed concern for the wildlife affected by the fire, particularly smaller animals that may not have been able to escape the advancing flames, including those potentially caught in snares.
Despite the destruction, there has been one welcome source of comfort, with the dogs at the sanctuary remaining safe and, according to Dogtown, having largely carried on with their usual routines.
The aftermath of a devastating fire has left the Dogtown South Africa sanctuary facing a difficult recovery, with the organisation now appealing to the public for help to better protect the animals in its care.
While everyone involved played a vital role during the latest incident, the organisation says it cannot afford to be caught unprepared when another fire threatens the property.
It is now calling for donations towards a proper firefighting response kit, including robust equipment that will allow its team to react more quickly and safely.
Another priority is bringing in a grader to create access roads around all sides of the 50-acre property. The organisation says having vehicles and firefighting equipment able to reach different parts of the farm could make a critical difference during a future emergency.
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How to Help Dogtown
Donations will go towards acquiring firefighting equipment and creating access roads around the property.
Online donations: Donate to Dogtown South Africa
Bank: First National Bank
Account name: Dogtown South Africa
Branch code: 254 005
Account number: 622 4042 5571
Reference: Your name or email address
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