Animal Welfare Society Helderberg faces growing pressure from rising intake

The Animal Welfare Society Helderberg (AWS) has described December 2025 as one of its most challenging months, after responding to a surge in animal intakes, emergency calls, and seasonal risks, while continuing to face a significant monthly funding shortfall.

According to AWS’s December report, the organisation took in 163 stray and surrendered dogs and 130 cats during the month. In addition, staff and volunteers responded to calls involving injured and displaced wildlife.

"These animals were assessed and then sent to facilities that are recognised by Nature Conservation," the report noted.

AWS’s on-site consulting room treated 987 animals in December, while 115 animals were sterilised through the organisation’s on-site surgery. The society’s mobile clinic also remained active, running five clinics per week, excluding public holidays, in communities where pet owners have no access to veterinary services or transport. Primary veterinary care was provided to animals in these areas.

Fireworks on New Year’s Eve added further strain, with AWS describing the night of Wednesday, December 31, as the worst in years.

"While the intakes were not that bad, the calls for help and lost animals continued throughout the night and the next day.

"We are currently experiencing the fire season and have had several scares over November and December. It’s been eight years since the last big burn, when we were forced to evacuate. Our goal is to purchase an on-site skid-unit for about R60 000," the report further stated. 

Despite these pressures, AWS continues to provide shelter and care to almost 300 dogs and cats every day, covering food, water, cleaning, handling, and veterinary needs.

Medical and veterinary services are also offered to members of the public who cannot afford private veterinary care. Over the past year,  the organisation's report revealed that close to 10 000 animals were treated at the on-site clinic alone.

However, the society has emphasised that financial sustainability remains a serious concern.

"A shortfall of approximately R200 000 a month is experienced. So donations of that amount are required. The best way to achieve this is via a monthly debit order," the report noted.

December, the organisation said, was a difficult month “for all concerned”, but staff and volunteers remain committed to continuing their work in the face of mounting challenges.

To contribute, or to ask for more information, contact the general manager, Julia Evans, at juliaevans.aws@gmail.com, or call 021 856 5549.