There was no shortage of wagging tails, happy faces, and festive spirit at Fourways Crossing as the sounds of laughter mixed with excited barks during Woodrock Animal Rescue’s Christmas in July market.

While shoppers browsed local stalls and enjoyed the winter sunshine, rescue dogs soaked up every cuddle and every hopeful glance from potential adopters.

Woodrock Animal Rescue’s Jax Martheze said the day was about far more than a market; it was about bringing a community together for animals waiting for a place to call home. “We are having Christmas in July at Fourways Crossing. It has been absolutely incredible. The weather’s played its part, the people have played their part, and, of course, the dogs have played their part. It’s been a fantastic, beautiful, vibey day.”

Read more: Adopt a dog at Woodrock

The event was organised by Rachel Smith, from Smith’s Collection, after she approached Woodrock with a simple goal: To do something meaningful for rescue animals. “Rachel actually reached out to Woodrock Animal Rescue because she really loves rescue, and wanted to do something for rescue animals, particularly for Woodrock. She came up with the idea of hosting this market, and we said, ‘We’re in’.”

Martheze also praised Fourways Crossing for opening its doors to the organisation and consistently supporting its work. “We are so grateful to Rachel for organising it and, of course, Beverly Sefuralo, from Fourways Crossing. They are really an incredible centre. They are pro-Woodrock and pro-rescue.”

The shopping centre has become a familiar weekend stop for the rescue organisation, with adoption days regularly giving visitors the chance to meet dogs searching for loving homes. “As you know, this is our home on a Saturday. You can always find us here bringing some dogs up for adoption. Even if you can’t adopt, come through and engage with them.”

Also read: Adopt a dog at Woodrock

For those who are unable to welcome a pet into their homes, Woodrock has created another way to help. “We have a virtual adoption programme. If you can’t adopt a dog, you can adopt one of our teddy bears for R150 a month. Each teddy represents one of the dogs in our care.”

The contributions help provide food, shelter, and medical care for rescue animals, while allowing supporters to play a meaningful role in their journey.

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