Matlosana Animal Shelter, located in Stilfontein, cares for more than 200 animals, including dogs, donkeys, goats and chickens. The animals are rescued from neglectful and unfriendly environments and rehabilitated at the shelter, which spans two hectares of land. 

Despite the size of the property, limited financial support has made it increasingly difficult for the shelter to continue its work, said shelter manager Suzette Kotze. Among the major challenges facing the organisation are rising electricity and water bills, veterinary costs, and limited space to accommodate the growing number of rescued animals.

“We are city-bound and in great need of funding, funding means vet fees because every dog that comes in or whatever animal gets that cleared because we don’t want diseases in our facility.

“We are an NPO, we are also a section 18 (a) approved. So if you do a donation to a shelter, you can claim it back from tax; we just give you a section 18 (a) certificate. 

“We are in real need; we have over 200 animals we take care of, and they come in daily,” she said.

The shelter’s utility expenses alone have become overwhelming, with water and municipal bills reaching as high as R27,000. 

The municipality had previously promised to provide free water and electricity, as well as to cover the shelter’s annual account services, which cost approximately R50 000, but these commitments were not fulfilled.Animals are looked after at Matlosana Animal Shelter in North West. Photo supplied

The shelter operates as a pro-life facility. “We don’t kill (animals) for space. 

“People need to know that because they don’t like supporting a place that kills. But immediately you use the words no kill, the ‘kill community’ gets up in arms.”

Beyond rescue work, Matlosana Animal Shelter plays an active role in surrounding rural and township communities. The organisation educates animal owners on proper care, assists with feeding programmes, and provides vaccination and sterilisation services to help control animal populations and prevent disease.

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OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi mvh