Uzwela Animal Rescue builds a better home for dogs in need
With a dedicated team, a new shelter, and big dreams for education and outreach, Uzwela Animal Rescue has created a haven where animals come first.
A new light is shining for animals in need, thanks to Uzwela Animal Rescue, a dedicated organisation officially registered in September 2023.
Founded by passionate animal advocate Ron Horton, who previously worked with another rescue organisation, Uzwela was born out of a desire to do things differently.
“I resigned from my previous role due to financial and management issues that I could not fix,” said the founder. “I felt the organisation was no longer fulfilling its mission, and I wanted to build something better, something animals and people could truly rely on.”
A mission with heart
Uzwela’s mission is simple but powerful. It seeks to provide affordable veterinary services for those unable to pay standard rates, to offer sterilisation services at low or no cost to disadvantaged communities, and to deliver free or low-cost primary healthcare for pets, focusing on prevention.
The organisation also assists struggling pet owners with essentials like food, blankets, kennels and leads. It rescues, rehabilitates and rehomes abused, neglected and abandoned animals, and educates youth about animal care through volunteer programmes.
Currently, the shelter cares exclusively for dogs, although it works closely with partner organisations that care for other animals. The healthcare programme mainly supports household pets but can extend to livestock in certain cases.
Daily life at the shelter
The rescue currently houses 30 adult dogs and four puppies, with an additional 11 puppies in foster care, five of which are being bottle-fed.
“Our days start early with cleaning and feeding,” Horton explained. “We wash all the blankets daily, check the dogs for fleas and other health issues, and give them their meals at noon. After lunch, they enjoy a 30-minute walk, and later they get an evening snack at 19:00.”
The shelter recently relocated after the previous premises were sold. “The new property is much better for us,” said Horton. “It’s larger, more isolated and peaceful. At our old place, we had constant problems with a neighbour who complained about the barking.”
Uzwela is run by a four-member board, none of whom receive a salary. Two full-time staff members live on-site to care for the animals and maintain the property.
Additionally, a group of around 50 volunteers stay connected via WhatsApp, ready to step in when needed.
The shelter also works with five compassionate vets across Midvaal and Alberton who offer services at welfare rates. These vets help with sterilisation, treatment and ongoing advice.
“We often get school children asking to volunteer,” highlighted Horton. “It’s heartwarming to see young people getting involved.”
How you can help
There are many ways the public can support Uzwela. Donations can be made to the shelter’s bank or vet accounts:
Account name: CR Horton
Account type: FNB Savings
Account number: 63110165552
Branch code: 250655
Account name: Kibler Park Veterinary Clinic
ABSA Southgate
Account number: 4043420580
Branch code: 632405
Reference: Uzwela.
The community can also support the shelter by joining the volunteer WhatsApp group, fostering or adopting a dog, following and sharing adoption posts on Facebook, or donating items to the charity’s thrift shop.
“Being a charity means we’re always in need,” highlighted Horton. “We struggle to grow or improve because all our funds go to basics like food, medicine, vet bills, rent and staff wages.”
“Our vet bills are the top priority after rent. If we fall behind, it affects the very lifeline of our rescue.”
Looking to the future
“Our long-term dream is to build boarding kennels that can bring in income and reduce reliance on donations,” Horton said.
“I truly believe our services are unique and vital for the community. What I’d love to see next is more focus on education, especially among the youth.”
“Many problems in animal welfare stem from ignorance, uncontrolled breeding and harmful beliefs. Education is the key to changing this.”
“If we can change mindsets, we can change the future, not just for animals but for the people who care for them.”
