RESCUE, REHABILITATE, REHOME: PAWS MISSION

Megan Grobler

@megan.gro_bler

Potchefstroom Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) Haven, a registered non-profit organisation, is located on the outskirts of Potchefstroom in Miederpark. The organisation is an independent company catering to the wellbeing of animals in need that have been abandoned or found. 

The organisation’s mission  is to rescue, rehabilitate, and re-home abandoned, neglected, and abused animals. This is made possible because of the staff, volunteers, and community support, as well as the vet clinic on the PAWS premises, where they recently welcomed a new vet, Dr Mabote.

Thinking of adopting but not quite ready to commit? – PAWS offers a negotiable foster-period, free of charge. This allows new pet owners to settle into the role without the added stress of immediate costs. 

Once you have decided to adopt an animal from PAWS, a fee of R600 covers vaccinations, microchip insertion, and the adoption itself, making for an affordable and responsible process.

Ellie the Weimaraner used to be a shelter dog with an uncertain future. That was until she was rescued by PAWS, rehabilitated, and re-homed to a loving family. So were Yolo the Labrador and Mavis the small cat. These are only a few of many such stories, and while it is something to smile about, many residents of PAWS haven’t gotten as lucky.

With more animals arriving daily, PAWS is under increasing pressure. They are in urgent need of volunteers to walk and play with the animals, sponsors to help cover food and medical costs, and – most importantly – willing adopters, who are ready to open their homes and hearts to furry companions. 

PAWS hosts regular events to raise funds for their animals. From selling boerewors rolls, to organising community games days and activities – especially on special occasions like Nelson Mandela Day. They also visit schools to inform children on responsible pet ownership and bring comfort to the elderly in old age homes with animal visits. 

While many animals have already found loving homes thanks to PAWS, countless others are still waiting for their second chance. Your support — whether big or small — could change a shelter animal’s life today.

If you’re considering donating, volunteering, adopting, or simply just want to make an animal’s day, visit the PAWS website, or call 0631813524 for more information.

Mavis the small cat enjoying her nap, on her owner’s lap, in her new home (Source: Megan Grobler)

Edited by Mignon Walters