Wilro Park’s Julie – creating a safe haven for pets
Julie has always had a passion for helping animals - now she has made her passion a part of her everyday lifestyle.
With a heart of gold, Julie du Preez, a local animal lover and mother, jumped right into the opportunity to help make Roodepoort a safer environment for animals in the community.
Although Julie always had a soft spot for furry four-legged friends, her journey into the rescuing community began about 30 years ago when she helped out at the local SPCA.
“I met so many wonderful people in the rescue community and truly realised how important volunteering is!” exclaimed Julie.
She went on to say that once she had her children and they began school, Julie assisted at numerous rescues in the area whenever she could.
“A few years ago, I was headed to a very important business meeting. I was already late and stuck in traffic when I noticed a little Yorkie running through traffic!” she said.
“I immediately looked for a safe space to park and picked him up. I remember handing the little guy in at Roodekruin Vet and keeping contact with them until the Yorkie was safe at home. Needless to say, I lost the business contract because they thought it was unprofessional.”
Julie does not regret any work she has done to help make an animal’s life better.
“I’ve always been uneasy with the idea of my dogs being left in cages all day when they went to a doggy parlour, and taking everything into account, my partner encouraged me to open my own,” explained Julie.
She went on to say that she decided right then and there to start a grooming business with more ethical animal practices, while simultaneously pushing the ‘adopt don’t shop’ movement by advertising the different local animal rescues and sanctuaries that needed help.
“Enquiries on purchasing puppies, kittens or bunnies are referred to relevant rescues,” explained Julie. She also stated that Community Led Animal Welfare contacts her if they require dogs that have been surrendered or rescued to be groomed, which she does free of charge.
“Spaniel Rescue often gets dogs in that are just so matted, it’s impossible to network a dog when you can’t even see if it’s a boy or girl, so I also groom them free of charge,” added Julie.
Julie assists the rescues around her wherever possible, offering her premises for fundraisers or awareness events as well. A Dog Yoga demonstration took place at her premises in Wilro Park on June 10, hosted by City Pets Wilro Park together with S.C.A.R Canine Training and Behaviour and Bright Paws to help raise awareness and support for Nordic Rescue SA.
To find out how you could help the rescues in your area, or adopt a rescue, contact Julie at 082 464 6704.
