LOTHIAN Road is known for Seaton Park, a six-hectare conservation site, and is home to a variety of plants and birds as well as a number of running trails. However, it is also home to a local business that gives back to its furry friends. Denzil Burmester and Diedre Defresnes, who own the Spade Design Centre and Dee’s Café respectively, say their love for animals inspired them to use the shop to raise funds for various animal charities.

“When a human being is suffering they can articulate that pain, but animals have no voice and a lot of the time nobody helps them. Over the years I’ve built up a relationship with and know many of the individuals who run animal rescue organisations.

“The Durban North community has been fantastic in their support of us and we love giving back. We sell a number of items, where proceeds go towards organisations such as the Anti Animal Cruelty League (AACL) or Feeding the Furballs and the Feral Cat Rescue Trust,” Burmester said.

Deidre concurred with Denzil, saying they have always had an affinity towards animals.

“We all have a part to play in making a difference in animals’ lives. I know there are many people who help children in need, and we love to help animals who are in need. We’ve even adopted a feral cat, Ginger, who is often around and is one of the attractions at the shop. We all have an affinity for and love animals and my hope is people will support local businesses that give back to the community,” Deidre said.