SA’s Kindness Shines as AWS Rushes to Save Animals Affected by Capri Wildfire

Photo Credit: Animal Welfare Society of SA via Facebook

In a touching demonstration of kindness prevailing even in disaster, South Africans immediately answered the Animal Welfare Society’s call for help by flooding donation points with essential supplies as teams assisted animals affected by the ongoing wildfire in Capri.

Cape Town, South Africa (17 October 2025) – When the fire alarm rang out, reporting flames near the Glen Clairn Expressway and a strong South Easter wind driving the fire across the vegetation and dangerously close to the suburb of Capri Village, first responders, including the Animal Welfare Society of SA (AWS), dropped everything to assist.

The AWS team was dispatched to assist with the fire above homes in Capri, helping animals in need of evacuation and emergency care. Moments after calling on the support of the greater public for essentials like pet food, bandages, blankets, towels, Silbecor wound ointment and bottled water, compassionate South Africans did what they do best – show up with incredible support in times of need.

“We want to send a massive THANK YOU to everyone who has already donated supplies, funds, or shared our post – your compassion truly makes a difference!

“Your kindness has helped provide food and water for rescued animals, medical supplies for burns and wounds and warm blankets and towels for comfort,” the AWS team said.

Firefighters, in collaboration with Table Mountain National Park (TMNP) and supporting partners, have been working through the night to manage and suppress the wildfire ongoing in the Jonkersdam mountainous area of TMNP.

“Although active flames remain visible in various parts of the fire line, firefighting teams made significant progress overnight and into the early morning. The wind has dropped off considerably, and while the situation remains dynamic, the overall risk is not as significant as it was yesterday. The focus today is on identifying and extinguishing remaining hotspots, particularly in areas close to Welcome Glen and De Gama Park, before the expected increase in wind later today,” SANParks said in its latest update.

While the need remains great, and our hearts are with those who have suffered any inconvenience or loss amid this disaster, we thank those who bravely face the flames, save lives, and work tirelessly to manage the situation. Their dedication to prioritising the safety of residents, properties and animals has been truly commendable.

Officials have urged the public to avoid the vicinity as much as possible and comply with road closures and instructions from traffic officers. Affected roads include: Capri Drive, Jamaica Drive, Trinidad Close and Jamaica Drive.

To support AWS’s efforts, you can donate or drop off supplies at one of their collection points below: