Stepping up for animal welfare: Chantelle and Eloise’s walking mission
Discovery duo on a mission to make a difference in the lives of animals.
Chantelle Brummer and Eloise Maritz have over the years dedicated and committed themselves to walking for a noble cause and helping animals in need.
Their initiative, aptly named Walking for Paws, began five years ago, driven by their shared passion for animal welfare. The duo embarks on lengthy walks, covering distances of up to 8km or 25km, scouring the streets of Krugersdorp and Roodepoort for lost, injured, or abused animals.
“We do this for the love of animals, exercise, and connecting with nature,” Chantelle and Eloise explained.
“It’s heartbreaking to see animals suffering, and we want to make a difference in our community while also staying physically active and mentally refreshed.”
“We aim to speak for the voiceless. During our walks, when we see a lost dog or animal, we send it through WhatsApp and Facebook groups, and if we can’t locate the owner, a local security company assists us in taking the animal to the SPCA or, if injured, to the vet,” Chantelle said.
Their walks often take them to different neighbourhoods, where they interact with locals and provide guidance on animal care.
Also read: Revamped and Ready: Roodepoort/Krugersdorp SPCA Charity Shop welcomes shoppers!
“Over the years, we have helped numerous animals in need. From rescuing dogs trapped in storm drains to providing medical care for injured animals or simply feeding the animal. We usually carry backpacks filled with animal food, water, and snacks for ourselves and we have been overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity of the people they meet along the way.
“The love we’ve received from people on the road has been wonderful,” they said.
“We’ve never been afraid to walk because we do it early in the morning, before sunrise.”
Chantelle and Eloise are avid walkers, aiming to cover 100 km every month. However, they often exceed this goal, demonstrating their remarkable dedication and endurance.
In addition to their walking initiative, the duo also educates people on the importance of proper animal care, including guiding selecting the correct kennels for their pets.
Furthermore, they also collect donations every year for local shelters or charity organisations of their choice, providing vital support to those in need.
As they continue their mission, they hope to inspire others to join them in making a difference in the lives of animals and promoting a healthier, more compassionate lifestyle.
