No More Tears Animal Rescue in Randfontein is making an urgent appeal to the community and local businesses for assistance in completing its new kennels before the end of November, when the organisation must vacate its current premises.

Stephan Hendricks, owner of the rescue, said the organisation could no longer afford the rising rental costs of the boarding kennel space it had been renting for its rescued animals. With 45 dogs depending on the rescue for shelter and care, the looming deadline has left him deeply concerned about their future.

A kind friend has since offered Hendricks the opportunity to rent another property, with the possibility of eventually purchasing it. The organisation has already started building new kennels on the plot to provide a permanent home for the animals.

Construction began about six weeks ago, and although the project is nearing completion, several essential materials are still needed to make the facilities safe and suitable for the dogs.

“We’ve come so far, but we still desperately need welded mesh to secure the kennels, and our play and running camps still need to be built,” Hendricks said in an emotional appeal to the public.

The outstanding materials include welded mesh and square tubing for the kennel enclosures, diamond mesh fencing to surround the dogs’ running camps, shade netting to protect them from the sun, bricks, steel, gum poles and cement. Stainless-steel water bowls are also needed.

Hendricks said the organisation was racing against time to ensure the new facilities were ready before the end of November, when the current rental agreement expires.

In a heartfelt letter, he admitted that he was frightened about what would happen if the project was not completed in time.

“I honestly don’t know what we’re going to do at the end of November. Our 45 dogs have to move by then. There are no more extensions, and we are simply not ready,” he wrote.

Supplies needed to finish build

The challenge is made more difficult by the fact that the organisation’s daily rescue work continues despite the building project. Injured, abandoned and suffering animals still need assistance, placing further pressure on the resources available to the rescue.

“How do we just look the other way?” Hendricks asked, explaining that he often lies awake at night worrying about where the dogs will go if the kennels are not ready.

He acknowledged that times were tough and that repeatedly asking for assistance was not easy. However, he said the lives depending on the organisation left him with no choice but to appeal to the public once again.

“I have 45 lives depending on me, and I cannot do this alone,” he said.

Hendricks expressed his gratitude to everyone who had already contributed towards the project, saying their support had helped bring the construction this far. He is now appealing to individuals, companies and anyone who can assist with building materials, fencing supplies or sponsorship towards completing the play and running camps.

Financial contributions of any amount would also help the organisation purchase the outstanding materials needed to finish the project.

“We’ve promised these dogs they would never be abandoned again. Please help me keep that promise,” he pleaded.

How to help

Community members who can donate materials, offer sponsorship or make a financial contribution are urged to contact Stephan Hendricks on WhatsApp at 084 433 7748.

Those who are unable to donate can still assist by sharing the appeal with friends, family and businesses that may be willing to help.

With the end-of-November deadline fast approaching, every contribution could help bring No More Tears Animal Rescue closer to completing its new home and ensuring that its 45 dogs have a safe place to stay.

For Hendricks, the appeal is about more than bricks, fencing and building materials. It is about keeping a promise to 45 vulnerable animals that have already endured hardship and deserve a safe place to call home.