With deep sadness, the Dogtown SA family mourns the loss of Pat, a true champion for animals who dedicated her life to giving countless dogs a second chance and showing them the unconditional love they deserved.
Pretoria, South Africa (21 September 2025) – From her earliest childhood photos, Pat could always be found cradling a rescued creature. Her unofficial career in animal welfare began at age 10, blossoming into a lifelong mission to look out for and care for those without a voice.
For 4,657 days, Pat poured strength and passion into fighting for the dogs of Dogtown South Africa.
This extraordinary soul, the beating heart of Dogtown SA, sadly passed this week, leaving behind a legacy built on kindness and courage.
“Pat was the heart of Dogtown. She opened her home to countless dogs, gave hope to the broken, and showed every animal that they were loved. Her kindness, strength, and fierce devotion will live on in every wagging tail and every second chance,” the organisation said in a tribute post.
In addition to adopting numerous dogs from shelters, most of her years were dedicated to raising funds for small and large animal charities, doing everything within her power to ensure animals in need received the best possible care.
BarkingMad also paid tribute to Pat, praising her as the most incredible human and a key part of building the organisation to what it is today.
“The world feels emptier without her, but we take comfort knowing she’s now surrounded by the thousands of dogs she helped save. Free from pain, finally at peace,” Dogtown SA continues.
Touching messages and heartfelt tributes have flooded social media in memory of Pat, recalling the gentle soul she was, the friendship she generously offered, and the love she shared with the unloved.
To honour her lifetime dedicated to fundraising and supporting animal welfare, Dogtown has set up a donations page in memory of her.
“Pat didn’t want flowers, but she did want her life’s work to continue. The most meaningful way to honour her is to support the Dogtown dogs she loved so deeply.”
Though she has passed on, the light Pat sparked will shine on in every rescued life and every act of compassion her story inspires.
To support the cause, visit the donations page here.
Sources: Dogtown South Africa | BarkingMad
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