The Linmeyer Community Animal Rescue Association (LCARA), a small but dedicated animal rescue group run entirely by volunteers, has received a much-needed trailer from Hot Cares to help continue its vital work for animals and the community in Johannesburg south.

LCARA began an urgent sterilisation and vaccination drive focused on underprivileged households and the many dogs and cats living at the Yellow Mountain and East Street dumps.

The volunteers also work in dangerous areas, rescuing injured, sick and neglected animals, while educating families about animal welfare and providing free sterilisation services to those who cannot afford vet care.

On average, LCARA assists more than 300 animals every month. In 2025 alone, the group has already sterilised 1 078 cats and dogs.

This has been made possible through support from partners such as From Tassie With Love in Tasmania, Dr Asheena Surajpal from Orion Vet and Dr Caren Rademeyer from Big & Small CVC.

Despite their impact, LCARA has faced a serious challenge: transport. Without a proper trailer, volunteers have had to make multiple trips into high-risk areas, often moving only one or two animals at a time.

This has slowed down rescue, sterilisation and vaccination work, while also placing physical strain and safety risks on the volunteers.

An 8-berth dog trailer, costing R82 000, was urgently needed to allow animals to be moved in larger numbers. Such a trailer would turn slow and demanding trips into faster, life-saving operations.

When Hot Cares asked for Christmas nominations, one name stood out. Again and again, listeners nominated LCARA, describing a tiny rescue doing enormous work for animals and families in need.

Thanks to the generosity of HOT 102.7FM listeners and Hot Cares donors, R85 000 was donated to purchase the 8-berth dog trailer and stock it with dog food. The trailer will serve thousands of animals for years to come.

Hot Cares member Andy Swanepoel said the decision was an easy one. “LCARA’s volunteers put themselves on the line every day for animals that have no voice. This trailer gives them the ability to help more animals, more safely, and more quickly. It is exactly the kind of practical, long-term support Hot Cares aims to give.”

LCARA member Ursula Hope said the trailer would make a life-changing difference. “This is more than just equipment for us. It means capacity, safety and sustainability. It means fewer trips into dangerous areas and faster help for animals who are suffering. We are deeply grateful to Hot Cares and everyone who made this possible.”

For LCARA, the new trailer is a powerful tool to continue their mission. For the animals, it is a lifeline.