Wine tasting supports CLAW’s animal welfare efforts

The Tasting Room recently hosted a wine-tasting evening in support of the Community Led Animal Welfare (CLAW).

The event featured wines from Jakkalsvlei and marked the third wine tasting held to benefit CLAW.

Event organiser Riette Coetzee highlighted the growing challenge of securing dog food donations. Thanks to the generosity of Ultra Pet and Pierre@ecohealth, several bags were donated.

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Rob Hewer, representing the Jakkalsvlei Cellar, kept the evening lively and informative with fascinating insights about the wines on offer.

“CLAW is very close to my heart,” said Coetzee.

“We adopted our beloved Jasper from CLAW, who sadly passed away at the end of April. This tasting was a way to honour his memory and thank CLAW for their incredible work under difficult circumstances.”

Coetzee noted that each event had grown in attendance, with guests bringing friends and creating an atmosphere full of laughter and community spirit.

“Our raffle tickets contribute the largest portion of our donations,” she said.

“We couldn’t have done this without the help of Erika Green, Mhari Robertson, Jakkalsvlei, Leandri Myburgh and our amazing MC, Mark Tarboton.”

The funds raised will be used at CLAW’s discretion to meet its most urgent needs.

“We trust them to know exactly where the help is needed,” said Coetzee.

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“I hope our guests will continue to support CLAW and perhaps even adopt one of their beautiful animals.”

CLAW’s founder, Lynne Stevens, was grateful for the ongoing support.

Established more than 30 years ago, CLAW operates from Durban Deep in Roodepoort, offering basic veterinary care to impoverished communities nearby.

“Our services include education, vaccinations and sterilisation,” Stevens explained.

“But CLAW is more than a clinic. We also run a shelter where abandoned, stray and surrendered dogs and cats are cared for and made available for adoption.”

Stevens encouraged visitors to call or visit to learn more about the organisation’s work.

“Volunteering is a fun and fulfilling way to support CLAW while spending time with the animals.”

Running the clinic presents unique challenges because it operates without municipal electricity or running water.

“Most tasks are labour-intensive,” Stevens said. “That’s why financial and practical support is so essential.”

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Coetzee echoed this sentiment, saying it’s enlightening to see the needs firsthand.

“Witnessing what welfare organisations endure and being able to ease some of that burden is deeply rewarding,” she said.

“Winter is a particularly tough time for shelters. Donations of good-quality dog and cat food and blankets help keep the animals comfortable during cold months.”

Coetzee encouraged continued community involvement, stressing that support doesn’t have to be monetary.

“People can volunteer their time or skills, or even run their own donation drives. Every bit helps.”

For those interested in volunteering or supporting, contact Michelle on WhatsApp at 083 395 3011.

The final wine tasting of the year on August 29 will feature Stettyn wines.