BLUE Bundu Brigade has secured a new location for its rescue dogs following an emotional period filled with uncertainty. The non-profit organisation will be operating from a five-hectare property in Waterfall that includes a house and a separate flat with plans to build kennels.

Also read: Ruff race against time for Blue Bundu Brigade

For Karen Janisch, one of the directors at Blue Bundu Brigade, this development marks a significant turning point. “The organisation was founded seven years ago and began as a small operation using my own home to care for abandoned and neglected dogs before finding them new families,” said Janisch. 

An emotional journey

The organisation’s operations faced disruption recently when officials visited Janisch’s home, leading to the relocation of the dogs.

“Our reputation as a rescue organisation was put in disrepute. We were accused of many things which were incredibly hurtful as in our hearts we know this was untrue. This saga is not over as it will be dealt with, but sorting our remaining rescue dogs to safety is our main priority right now,” she said. 

Janisch conveyed her appreciation to businesses and individuals who assisted Blue Bundu Brigade during a particularly challenging period for the organisation. She specifically mentioned Shongweni Kennels and Animal Lodge as their intervention was crucial in ensuring the safety of their dogs during a crisis.

Also read: Woman mauled by dogs in Merebank

Answered prayers

Finding a suitable property has been one of the organisation’s main goals for over a year. While the task seems virtually impossible for the organisation, Janisch said the team eventually took it to God and asked him to make a way. A few days later they received information about a potential rental property. 

“Many people within the community had reached out after our plea to find a home, sending us advertisements of potential homes. We contacted the owner of the property and spent some time on the phone with them. Tears flooded our eyes as we relayed our story and how we have endured so much over the years. What came next was like a light at the end of the tunnel, it gave us hope, it gave us life. After many visits to the property, seeing such potential, we were over-excited that we could stay on a property like this. It was like our dream had come true,” she said. 

The animal-zoned property will be the organisation’s home for the next five years with the option to buy the property.

Ongoing challenges

Despite securing a location, substantial work is required before the property can accommodate the animals. The team needs to clear dense vegetation to create space for building kennels and prepare the site for rescue operations. Janisch said that they will require community support for this undertaking, particularly for clearing the land and constructing the kennels.

Also read: Blue Bundu Brigade hits ‘paws’ after vehicle breaks down

The organisation’s main priority now though is to cover the R25 000 cost of kennels for July. These fees must be settled before the dogs can be relocated. The exact date for occupying the new premises, whether in August or September, remains unconfirmed as preparations are ongoing.

Supporting the cause:

The Blue Bundu Brigade is also promoting a Mandela Day initiative, urging the public to contribute R20 towards the construction of kennels at the new site.

To support the organisation by helping settle their fees or contributing towards building kennels, people can make a direct deposit into the home’s FNB account, account number 63129 488 284 with the reference as kennels/ your cell phone number. Additionally send proof of payment email to bluebundubrigade@gmail.com so that the organisation can thank you as well as hand out any section 18A forms.

Their vision for the new premises is to create a lasting sanctuary where abandoned, mistreated and neglected dogs can receive necessary care while awaiting permanent homes.

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