After a Decade of Canine Compassion Edu-Paw’s Journey Comes to an End

Photo Credit: Pixabay via Pexels

A decade of devotion, thousands of happy tails, and a generation of compassionate young hearts. This is the unforgettable story and legacy of Edu-Paw as it closes its doors after 10 years.

Amanzimtoti, South Africa (23 July 2026) – For over a decade, Edu-Paw has worked to end cycles of unintentional pet neglect by reaching pet owners who simply didn’t know better.

Founded, facilitated, and led by SPCA volunteer Cathy Rhoda Keegan, this initiative under the Amanzimtoti SPCA stepped up to teach local children and youth how to care for their furry friends, from nutrition and hygiene to keeping them healthy.

Every Saturday morning, crowds of eager young children, many proudly carrying their pets or holding their leashes, gathered for hands-on classes in basic handling, training, grooming, and general care. Beyond the lessons, these mornings inspired a sense of pride, helping young hearts open up to cherish the dogs and pets that rely on them.

For 10 years, the dedicated volunteers behind Edu-Paw have brought care, support, education, and joy to the community. However, due to unforeseen circumstances straining its operations, Edu-Paw has made the difficult decision to close its doors.

Following the passing of her husband and a subsequent move to Cape Town last year, Cathy had to step away from running the programme. Volunteer Jo Douwes then stepped up to manage Edu Paw in Cathy’s absence and trained volunteer Nomfundo Luthuli, who became the programme’s new facilitator.

For the past year, Nomfundo has run the programme with the assistance of her sister, Sphelele Luthuli, while Cathy continued to manage social media.

“Sadly, due to financial constraints, Nomfundo has had to take full-time employment in a job that requires her to work every Saturday and is no longer able to commit to the demands of running the programme,” Edu-Paw shared online.

Unfortunately, the team states, keeping their doors open is not as simple as ‘just finding someone else’.

“The programme requires someone who is deeply passionate about what we do, fully committed to Saturday classes, trained through the programme to understand every aspect of it, equipped with management skills, and willing to serve without financial remuneration.
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“Over the past decade, we have had the privilege of working alongside the most incredible volunteers, who gave so generously of their time and hearts to help us teach children proper canine care and instil love and compassion for animals.”

Edu-Paw extends its sincere gratitude to every person who encouraged, supported, sponsored, and donated towards the running costs of the initiative.

“Because of your kindness, the lives of both children and dogs have been changed for the better.”

Although the Edu Paw Programme has come to an end, the team assures all of its supporters and donors that any donations received in Edu Paw’s name will continue to be used to uplift the lives of township dogs who are brought to the SPCA.

“It has been an incredible journey and a true privilege. We are deeply grateful to every single person who has played a part in the Edu Paw story. Our prayer is that someone who meets the necessary criteria will one day step forward to continue this work. For now, however, we regretfully have no option but to close our doors.”

For the life-changing work you’ve done, Good Things Guy salutes and thanks every single heartbeat behind Edu-Paw. Countless dogs are happier and healthier because of your dedication, and so many children have learned to become a voice for the voiceless. Your legacy will live on.