Woodrock is saving lives one paw at a time
Local animal rescue shelter offers hope, rehabilitation, and a second chance to animals who need it most.
For hundreds of abandoned, abused, and neglected animals, hope often comes in the form of a van pulling up to collect them, a gentle hand offering food, or a safe kennel at Woodrock Animal Rescue.
Woodrock, one of South Africa’s oldest no-kill animal shelters, has been working for more than two decades to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome animals, driven by a commitment to give a voice to the voiceless.
At the forefront of this mission is Jacqui Martheze, who has become a recognised figure in animal welfare circles for her hands-on dedication to animal rescue and education.
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“Animals don’t have a voice, so we have to be that voice for them. Every animal deserves a chance,” said Martheze
Under Martheze’s leadership, Woodrock has launched a number of initiatives that extend the organisation’s reach beyond traditional rescue and rehoming.
One of these initiatives is the Woodrock Cat Café, where visitors can sip coffee while spending time with rescue cats looking for homes. Martheze said the café helps socialise the cats while providing potential adopters with an opportunity to interact with them in a relaxed setting.
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Another programme gaining traction is Paws at Work, which brings adoptable rescue dogs into corporate environments. The initiative not only introduces animals to potential adopters but also helps reduce workplace stress.
“It’s a simple concept that’s changing how people view rescue animals. Seeing these animals in a work setting often leads to adoption and creates awareness about rescue and rehabilitation.”
Woodrock’s work also extends to underprivileged communities, where the organisation runs sterilisation and education programmes, aiming to address the root causes of animal neglect and overpopulation.
“Education is key if we want to change the future for animals. It starts with children learning about compassion and responsible pet ownership.”
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Annual events such as Mandela Day see community volunteers coming together at Woodrock to walk dogs, assist with maintenance, and donate supplies, reflecting the impact of collective action.
Local animal lovers and community members are encouraged to support Woodrock’s efforts by adopting, fostering, volunteering, or donating supplies to the organisation. Woodrock Animal Rescue has set up a Pup Pop-Up centre at The Bryanston Garden Shop on Main Road.
“Every bit of help counts. Together, we can change lives.”
For more information on how to support Woodrock Animal Rescue, visit: www.woodrockanimalrescue.co.za or call 082-925-3133.
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