SEVERAL weeks ago the Animal Anti-Cruelty League (AACL) Durban & PMB reached out to the public due to financial strain which could have led to the closure of the organisation which has stood as a beacon of hope for animals in distress for more than 65 years.
AACL said the response that they have received in the past weeks has been inspiring.

Donations and offers of assistance flowed in, giving the organisation renewed hope and strength to continue its vital work.

Caxton Local Media also raised money through an auction at the ROOTS 8.1 launch which was held at the Barnyard Theatre at Suncoast Casino on Friday, October 17.

Also read: Animal shelter faces closure due to finances

Recently, the Highway Mail visited the organisation in the Upper Highway, 53 Artesia Avenue, D657 Road, Leckhampton Valley, Hammarsdale to see the work that they do for the animals, and the tour was interesting.

Situated in a place which one could call a hidden gem, we were welcomed by Amy Gooden, who is passionate about the welfare of the animals and knows all the animals by names.

She said the shelter has 130 cats and dogs in their care and 20 dedicated staff who are constantly on call.

“These include the animals that permanently live on the farm such as the office cats and dogs, all our adoption dogs and the 50-plus cats that live in our Cat Haven. All of our animals are up for adoption – even the office dogs and cats. They all live on the farm with us until they find a home.”

Not only does the organisation feed the animals, but they also require blankets, food bowls, leads, deworming, tick and flea treatment and veterinary care at times.

“Donations of any of these items assist us in our endeavours to take good care of all these animals. The organisation also offers dog and cat hotels where AACL ensures its guests a home away from home experience. Pet owners going away on holidays can leave their pets with us,” said Gooden.

The money raised from this help ensure that AACL outreach work continues. What’s more, the organisation has an onsite fundraising initiative, a Charity Shop.

“The public can come and buy items at bargain prices, but we need help to keep our shop stocked with good quality items. When cleaning out your garage or cupboards, please consider donating any unwanted items to us. We sell glassware, kitchenware, clothing, books, appliances, tools, furniture and much, much more,” said Gooden.

To assist one of South Africa’s longest-standing ‘no-kill’ shelters, people can consider volunteering; this can include bathing and playing with puppies or walking dogs, or grooming and playing with cats.

“All that is required is compassion for animals and a willingness to learn, responsibility towards completing requested tasks, appreciating the organisation’s history and how it operates, a sense of humour, and getting dirty (in a fun way!). Volunteers can also help with cleaning the kennels and cattery, and the spaces where the animals live, and feeding the animals.”

The shelter also has a cafe set in tranquil surrounds which offers delicious meals and refreshments.

“Children can enjoy the swimming pool, slides and swings on the jungle gyms and wide open space to play in secure surrounds. The Café is also well suited to ladies’ tea groups, book club meetings, children’s birthday parties, baby showers and the like,” said Gooden.

She added that the shelter also has a dog run where people can bring their own dogs to run off lead in a secure space for a minimal fee or they can take one of the dogs in their care out for some extra love.

Dr. Lawson Cairns, chairman of AACL Durban & PMB, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported the organisation.

“Your kindness has given us renewed hope that we can continue to do the vital work that is so desperately needed. We appeal to the public to keep supporting us, many animals will have a better life thanks to your generosity.”

The League’s work spans a wide area, including Inchanga, Hammarsdale, Inanda, Chatsworth, Phoenix, Cato Ridge, and beyond.

“Every act of kindness makes a difference. Each donation helps to feed, treat, and shelter animals who would otherwise be forgotten. With the public’s continued support, the Animal Anti-Cruelty League Durban can keep doing what it does best, giving animals the care, compassion, and second chances they deserve.”

Cairns also extended his gratitude to the Animal Anti-Cruelty League national body in Johannesburg for their valuable input and guidance.

“Your continued support serves as a reminder that we are part of an enduring organisation built on compassion, dedication, and a shared commitment to animal welfare.”

To help AACL continue with their vital work, people can make donations:
Banking details:
Animal Anti-Cruelty League
Standard Bank
Account No: 051350521
Durban North Branch (042826)

@caxtonlocalmedia The Animal Anti Cruelty League relies on donations to provide essential items like food, blankets, and veterinary care. They also offer pet boarding services, providing a safe haven for pets while their owners are away. #caxtondurban #AACLDurban #animalrescue #secondchance #adoptdontshop🐾 ♬ original sound – caxtonlocalmedia

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