Border Collie Rescue (BCR), which has been based at a boarding kennel for more than 20 years, must leave by December 19 after the property was sold to new owners who will not continue operating it as a kennel.

Fourways resident Chariene Hugo, who has rescued nine Border Collies over the years, is appealing to residents and animal lovers to help the organisation find suitable premises and prepare them to accommodate about 40 dogs. Hugo said her family first became involved with the breed in 2008, when they rescued a Border Collie cross called Jenny and received another Border Collie, Jimmy, from a friend. “We became aware of how many Border Collies end up in rescue because their active nature and needs can be difficult for some owners to manage,” said Hugo. “Knowing how intelligent and sensitive they are, we wanted to help and began supporting BCR. Its work is important to us because it rescues and rehomes Border Collies that need a new home, giving them a second chance to find a loving family.”

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With the December deadline approaching, BCR has identified a possible site in Midrand. However, the property needs substantial work before it can safely accommodate the dogs. According to Hugo, the site requires security fencing, kennels or runs, shade, storage space and an office. “The dogs need somewhere safe to go, and BCR needs a place where it can continue its work. If suitable premises are not found, BCR may not be able to continue operating, and the future of the dogs in its care would be uncertain. It would also mean losing a rescue that has helped more than 11 000 Border Collies over the years.”

Hugo said the immediate priority was finding a workable solution before the rescue had to vacate its current premises. “We don’t want to speculate about what would happen to each dog. BCR has to vacate its current premises by December 19, and there is a lot of work to do before then to prepare a new site. The urgent need is to find a workable solution in time.”

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Residents who may be able to assist are encouraged to share the appeal and connect the rescue with people or businesses that could help secure and prepare the new premises. The fundraising appeal is available at https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/border-collie-rescue-sa-needs-a-new-home and you can reach them at dinaverasch@gmail.com or mwmoz@mweb.co.za.

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