It’s about the little things…

Her motivation to start the rescue service came as a result of seeing folk 'setting animals free' or giving them away because the cost to keep them had become too high or they simply didn't have the time anymore.

June 21, 2022

Drew Richards 2 minutes read

Founder Raine Anderson, with Chuck Norris, who's up for adoption.

The 3 Rs Rescue in Hibberdene is a family-run, non-profit organisation which rescues, rehabilitates and rehomes small animals.

It was started by Raine Anderson who has seen the increasing need for a rehoming network for smaller animals such as rabbits, guinea pigs (inedible), chickens and hamsters, to name a few.

“These animals are generally bought because they are portrayed as starter animals that require little maintenance and care, which is often not the case,” she said.

Raine has been taking in animals for as long as she can remember. “My first official rescue was a Boston terrier and I have fostered many different animals since then.”

Her motivation to start the rescue service came as a result of seeing folk ‘setting animals free’ or giving them away because the cost to keep them had become too high or they simply didn’t have the time anymore.

“Considering the Covid pandemic and the current economic climate, a lot of people can’t afford to keep numerous animals anymore,” she said.

“I am hugely passionate about animals and animal rescue, it’s a part of who I am as a person.”

She explained that her whole family plays a role in the care and upkeep of rescues and that it forms an integral part of their lives at home.

“I believe animal care teaches empathy and responsibility, so my children are involved too, even my three year old.”

She said the aim is for rescues to stay for as short a time as possible, but explained that those would not be able to be rehomed would stay with the family as their ‘forever home’.

At the moment there are a number of animals up for adoption, including rabbits, chinchillas, hamsters and chickens.

There is an adoption fee and contract is standard as per most rescues. The adoption fee can be a donation of food to the value of R150. Donations of animal food are always welcome, and tax deductible.

“Our goal is to raise R5000 for sterilizations. We really hope the community will get behind us and help network, adopt or support us to make a difference. After all, it’s about the little things.”