Director and Founder of Honey’s Garden Medical Service Dogs, Lucy Breytenbach has turned her lifelong passion for animals into a mission to help those living with epilepsy. Lucy and the team from Honey’s Garden Medical Service Dogs aim to bridge the gap between South Africans in need and the life-changing support of a service dog. 

She joined Yolanda Maartens in the OFM Family Focus to share her heart and passion.

“I truly believe that dogs are one of God’s special gifts to us,” Lucy said. “The fact that their incredible sense of smell and ability to learn tasks can be utilized to help people in need is the cherry on top of the cake.”

Accessibility and compassion

Honey’s Garden operates on a simple but powerful belief: medical service dogs should be an affordable option for everyone who needs one in South Africa. 

By functioning as a Non-Profit Company (NPC), Honey’s Garden focuses on making these highly trained companions accessible to families who might otherwise be priced out of such essential support. Their work doesn’t just provide a tool for independence; it offers a source of unconditional love that improves mental health and provides comfort to those facing medical challenges.

Giving a second chance

One of the most unique aspects of Honey’s Garden is its commitment to animal welfare. Whenever possible, the organization sources its “future superstars” from rescue organizations and re-homing centers.

However, the path to becoming a medical service dog is rigorous. While Lucy and her team don’t focus on specific breeds, they do look for a very specific set of traits:

• Reliability: The dog must be able to assist their family consistently.
• Character: A calm, focused temperament is non-negotiable.

Work Ethic: Being a service dog is a full-time job, and the team ensures every dog truly enjoys the work they do.                                                                             Medical alert dog. Photo supplied 

Process of training

The training process is intensive, ensuring that every dog-and-handler team is prepared for the real world. Based in Cape Town, the dogs are trained in local public spaces to build confidence in any environment.

While the organization is Cape Town-based, they serve applicants across South Africa. 

The process involves:

• Initial Matching: A video or in-person interview to match the perfect dog to the family’s lifestyle and medical needs.
• The Cape Town Workshop: Once a dog is fully trained, the new owner spends two full weeks in Cape Town for a comprehensive workshop on handling and expectations.
• The Public Access Test: The final hurdle! Successful teams participate in a graduation ceremony and head home with a starter pack of notes and essentials.

The support doesn’t end at graduation. Honey's Garden ensures long-term success through:

• Annual Re-testing: To maintain high standards, teams are re-tested every 12 months (this can be done remotely/locally).
• Local Support: Families are encouraged to join local obedience schools, and the Honey's Garden team remains available for video troubleshooting at any time.

Leave your paw print

As a non-profit, Honey’s Garden relies on community generosity to continue growing. Your support directly impacts the lives of people in need and gives a second chance to rescue dogs ready to serve.

Visit Honey’s Garden Medical Alert Dogs SA for more information. mvh