In every community, there are unsung heroes working tirelessly to protect and care for animals in need. In our town, PAWS and Free Range Cat Colony (Vee's) play an essential role in rescuing, rehabilitating, and finding loving homes for stray and abandoned pets. Whether through donations, volunteering, or adoption, you too can be a part of their mission.

PAWS: Giving Pets a Second Chance

PAWS is dedicated to rescuing and protecting pets, primarily dogs and cats, ensuring they receive the care they deserve. However, this important work cannot be done alone. PAWS relies on the kindness and generosity of the community to continue their mission.

Ways to Help PAWS

• Donations: PAWS is always in need of pet food, blankets, and monetary contributions to assist with veterinary bills and various projects.

• Sponsor a Kennel: For R240 per month, individuals and companies can sponsor a kennel. Sponsors can even visit PAWS, choose a kennel, and have their name or company logo placed on it.

• Volunteer Opportunities: Love animals? PAWS welcomes volunteers to help walk dogs, brush cats, and assist in other areas.

  • The “I Walk a Dog” initiative allows individuals over 18 years old to choose a dog, fill out a form, and provide much-needed exercise and companionship.

  • Children under 18 can also participate with parental consent, with parents required to fill in the necessary forms.

• Adopt a Pet: PAWS has dogs and cats of all sizes waiting for a loving home. The adoption process is simple:

  1. Visit PAWS and walk through the kennels to select a pet.

  2. Fill out an adoption pack at the office.

  3. A PAWS manager will conduct a home inspection to ensure the environment is suitable.

  4. Once approved and sterilization is complete, you can welcome your new pet home!

• Foster a Pet: Similar to adoption, fostering includes a home check and allows families to temporarily care for a pet for at least two weeks. If the family decides to adopt the pet permanently (a “foster fail”), a formal adoption process follows. PAWS covers medical expenses during the fostering period.

For more information on donating, volunteering, adopting, or fostering, contact PAWS at 071-681-9264.

Watch the video in the comments below.

Free Range Cat Colony: A Safe Haven for Feline Friends

Although part of PAWS, the Free Range Cat Colony initiative operates separately, providing a safe space for stray and semi-feral cats on PAWS property.

Recent Upgrades to Free Range Cats Premises

The Free Range Cats area has recently been upgraded with a new space that includes shelter, a play area for the cats, spotlight installations, a camera, and secure fencing. These improvements ensure the safety and well-being of the cats, providing them with a comfortable and stimulating environment.

How You Can Help Free Range Cats

• Food Donations: These cats require gemaalde wildvleis (ground wild game meat), as they do not eat wet cat food. Donations of dry cat food, milk, and blankets are also greatly appreciated.

• Adopt a Cat: Many of these cats are in need of a forever home. The process is as follows:

  • Interested individuals can contact Vee, who will arrange a time for them to meet the cats.

  • During this visit, potential adopters can interact with the cats to find one that connects best with them.

  • Vee will then guide them through the entire adoption process, which includes sterilization and necessary vaccinations.

• Support Vee’s Efforts: Volunteer Vee visits three times a week to care for the cats. Extra hands and resources can go a long way in ensuring these felines are well-fed and cared for.

• Volunteer Opportunities: Volunteers are also welcome to contact Vee and inquire about what assistance is needed.

• Monetary Donations: Financial contributions are also welcome. A separate bank account is maintained for these funds, and each month, receipts for purchases such as dry cat food and veterinary bills, along with a bank statement, are submitted to PAWS to ensure transparency and accurate record-keeping. Additionally, monetary donations can be made directly to the vet’s account, allowing the Free Range Cats to receive veterinary care as needed.

Contact and Donation Delivery Arrangements

📞 Contact Vee: +27 72 227 2688

• For donation delivery arrangements, contact Vee to schedule a meeting, or she can collect the donations.

• Donations can also be dropped off at PAWS, but it must be specified that they are for the Free Range Cat Colony. Ask for Lloyd, who will assist donors and inform Vee about the received donations.

Watch the video in the comments below.

A Call to Action: Be a Hero for Our Furry Friends

Animals bring joy, companionship, and unconditional love into our lives. PAWS and Free Range Cats work tirelessly to protect and care for these animals, but they need our support. Whether you donate, volunteer, adopt, or foster, your actions can make a significant impact.

Together, as a community, we can provide these pets with the love and care they deserve. Every small act of kindness counts—will you be part of the change?

#TheGoToGuy #stroomstories #potchefstroom #potchgazette #caring #furryfriends #PAWS #FreeRangeCatColony #Supporting #Iwalkadog