This year, a few locals celebrated a special kind of love on Valentine’s Day, not only between couples but also between people and their pets.

The RandWest SPCA Valentine’s Day Dog Walk invited residents and their furry companions to celebrate love, stay active, and support a good cause.

The concept was simple: Families, couples, and individuals were encouraged to bring their dogs, don Valentine-themed outfits, and enjoy a scenic walk at the Randfontein Rugby Club, with proceeds going towards caring for animals at the shelter. An information stand at the event encouraged responsible pet ownership and provided opportunities to learn more about adopting or volunteering.

However, turnout was lower than the organisers had hoped, leaving the SPCA team disappointed and highlighting the ongoing challenge of rallying local engagement for animal welfare initiatives. Community involvement is vital during these events, not just for the social atmosphere but because every rand raised helps provide food, medical care, shelter maintenance, and love for animals in need.

Animal shelters like the RandWest SPCA operate almost entirely on donations and volunteer support, without government funding. Without regular public involvement, resources become stretched thin, covering food, veterinary care, and basic supplies like blankets and dog leashes. Past appeals from the shelter have highlighted ongoing needs, including additional volunteers, donations of food and supplies, and active fundraising efforts to keep animals safe, healthy, and on the road to finding forever homes.

One participant, Lizeth Rowen, said it was disappointing and sad that the whole town didn’t come out to support, but she was personally happy to have participated because she’s been wanting to support the SPCA’s initiatives for some time.

“Unfortunately, I couldn’t bring my dogs with me because they are old, but I had to come and walk to support the cause of the SPCA.”

Chairperson of the RandWest SPCA, Max Fourie, said the purpose of the event was to raise funds mainly for building new kennels and maintaining the existing ones at both branches.

“We also have additional building projects for the surrounding buildings that house the animals,” he added. He urged community members to donate building materials, cement, bricks, various types of wood, and barbed wire.

Also read: Blikskud brings hope to RandWest SPCA animals

How can you help the SPCA?

Even if turnout at one event was quieter than expected, there are many ways individuals and the community can make a meaningful impact:

1. Donate supplies or funds
The SPCA needs everyday essentials like dog and cat food, blankets, treats, cleaning supplies, and monetary donations to cover veterinary bills and operating costs. These contributions directly improve animals’ quality of life.

2. Volunteer your time
Shelters always benefit from extra help. Volunteers can assist with:

• Walking and socialising dogs
• Cleaning and maintaining kennels

3. Adopt a pet
Many animals in the SPCA care are waiting for caring homes. Opening your heart and home gives them a chance to thrive and relieves pressure on shelter capacity.

4. Spread awareness
Follow the SPCA on social media, share their posts, and invite friends to upcoming events. Increased awareness leads to more participation, donations, and better outcomes for vulnerable animals.

5. Attend future events
Even if attendance was low this Valentine’s Day, future fundraisers, dog walks, markets, and open days can make a significant difference. Showing support increases the SPCA’s visibility and advances its mission.

For Fourie, animal welfare is a shared responsibility.

“Events like the Valentine’s Day Dog Walk are not just fun community occasions; they are vital platforms for education, compassion, and support. When the community unites, it strengthens the SPCA’s efforts in rescuing, caring for, and rehoming animals in need. By donating time, supplies, or simply showing up, you can help ensure that every animal feels loved, not just on Valentine’s Day but every day,” he concluded.