Rescue Expo
Photo Credit: The Rescue Collective SA

Back for a fourth run, the Rescue Expo brings over 50 of Gauteng’s animal welfare heroes together at one venue.

 

Bryanston, Johannesburg (26 September 2025) – Animal welfare is something we care deeply about here at Good Things Guy.

If you’ve been following us for a while, you’ll know we make it our mission to share as many rescue and rehab stories as we can – and there are a lot. On average, we publish three or more rescue stories every week.

We’ve heard it all. Dogs pulled out of dangerous situations, birds released back into the wild, animals rescued at sea…these kinds of feel-good stories tally in the thousands. It’s proof that compassion is alive and well in South Africa. Truthfully, there are so many stories that we could never share them all.

That’s why events like the Rescue Expo are so exciting. They shine a big, collective spotlight on the incredible people working quietly and tirelessly behind the scenes.

This October marks the fourth annual Rescue Expo in Johannesburg, and once again, over 50 of Gauteng’s rescue and rehabilitation organisations will gather in one space.

It’s a rare opportunity to walk around, meet the people behind the names, and learn about the animals they dedicate their lives to helping. And it’s not just about cats and dogs. There are groups working with donkeys, birds, bunnies, pigs, and even lions.

Some of the organisations confirmed include Barking Mad, FORA, CLAW, Friends of Free Wildlife, ARC Rabbit Assist, GSP Rescue, Pigs ‘n Paws, VaalPets, Rest Ur Ass Donkey Sanctuary, Cheeky Beaks, and Hartebeespoort Animal Welfare Society. That’s just to name a few.

Animal welfare isn’t easy. It takes resources, relentless energy, and, above all, compassion. Most rescue groups rely heavily on donations, volunteers, and community support just to keep going. The expo gives us a chance to meet them face-to-face, hear their stories, and maybe even take home a furry friend who needs a forever home.

The Rescue Expo takes place on Sunday, 12 October, at Bryanston Market from 9 am to 3 pm. It’s pet-friendly (yes, bring your well-socialised dogs along) and entry is R50 per person, with kids getting in free.

Expect adoptable animals, market food, shopping, and overall, a wholesome, feel-good day.

Find out more here. 


Sources: Linked above
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About the Author

Savanna Douglas is a writer for Good Things Guy.

She brings heart, curiosity, and a deep love for all things local to every story she tells – whether it be about conservation, mental health, or delivering a punchline. When she’s not scouting for good things, you’ll likely find her on a game drive, lost in a book, or serenading Babycat – her four-legged son.

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