Animal Welfare Society Stellenbosch - Man's Best Friend

Mental Health Awareness Month is in October, we focus on loneliness, and what can be done to alleviate those who feel the pangs of not having an exchange of love.

We have all experienced being alone. There is nothing more precious than having someone to love and care for through thick and thin. It’s those small gestures, like waking someone up with a special cup of coffee, and in return showing your gratitude by doing something they love.

Those who have experienced what it is like to live on the fringes know more than most that we were created to love, show kindness, and interact with others in the freedom of just being.

Loneliness is described as ‘sadness because someone doesn’t have friends or company’ and ‘being in a place of isolation, that is unfrequented.’ The physical health and mental health consequences of being lonely are far-reaching.

How we choose to act in everyday circumstances will resound for eternity. It’s those deliberate choices we make, those concerted efforts whether in action or thought that will last. It’s our heart condition that makes us individuals with the capacity to respect and nurture one another, irrespective of race, religion, what you wear or how much money you have.

The Perfect Mix for a Solution

Right now, 33% of adults worldwide feel lonely. The United Nations Human Settlement Program estimates that there are about 100 million homeless people globally and in South Africa, Rescue Rehab reported that about one million companion animals are euthanized every year.

This story is about a few good people who are doing something for the less fortunate, where both human beings and our furry besties benefit.

Stellenbosch, in the Western Cape, is flourishing, even during difficult times the students make this town buzz. They are privileged to be able to be tutored at Stellenbosch University known for academic excellence and innovation. Most of the streets are lined with boutique hotels and guest houses, the finest restaurants with celebrity chefs, and some residents are even able to pamper their dogs with bespoke ice cream that gets delivered to their cushy homes.

My time in Stellenbosch from March to June 2021 gave me insight into the city. It's a town juxtaposed where the more fortunate find it hard to ignore homeless people who are struggling to find jobs and have nowhere to go. Some have resorted to hustling in order to pay for their accommodation at the Night Shelter. Word gets around quickly, as to who is kind and compassionate but one man had a vision that has transformed the lives of many homeless people in Stellenbosch.

Charl Reyneke's sustainable initiative HeartFlow was fuelled by feeling uncomfortable when a homeless person pleaded for money and he was unwilling to become an enabler. So he garnered support from local business owners and started a coupon system where residents could purchase a ticket that would in turn pay for a night's accommodation at the shelter. Charl is the unsung hero if there ever was one.

Pastor John Stanley and his wife Grace, from Nigeria, are just one couple who have gone that extra mile for those who are vulnerable, whom society has deemed less worthy. Then there's Nanine Steenkamp, who is following in her mother's footsteps and is not shy about associating with people who are in need. Berndt Linder and Murray are also part of Stellies, soft-hearted.

The Church meeting area is opened up early on Friday mornings, where prayer and sharing the Word of God take precedence, as sandwiches and rusks are served with fine coffee to those that have managed to survive the night outside and other homeless people trickle in from the Night Shelter, they have to be out by 06h00 and can appreciate all the kindness they can get.

Arrangements are made before leaving for Sunday's visit to the Animal Welfare Society Stellenbosch, where visitors can walk the dogs and homeless volunteers receive coupons that can be used for a night's stay at Tennant Street's Stellenbosch Night Shelter.

A ride is provided by the team members with transport to the Animal Welfare Society, which is about 10 minutes from the bustling city. A volunteer assists visitors with dog walks every day and welcomes you with a dog leash before you enter the enclosures to choose your companion. And now it's time for freedom, tails in the air with happy chirping from their leaders. Everyone's smiling.

The Pet Effect

Research shows that owning an animal companion can have a positive impact on health.

1. According to two studies, owning a pet reduces frailty and increases activity levels.

2. Pets were found to reduce depression and anxiety levels.

3. In Australia, a study concluded that pets encourage social interaction.

4. Another study found that owning and caring for a pet actually increased the chances of recovering from cardiovascular events.

5. Tests have revealed that they also help when we need to feel that we belong by interacting with another sentient being.

Jessica Perrins, Head of Fundraising and Communications for Animal Welfare Shelter Stellenbosch, is quick to credit HeartFlow for its initiative.

What kind of feedback have you had? I know that it means so much to the homeless and it's one of the most positive initiatives.

The regular volunteers really enjoy walking the dogs and have developed a bond with many of the dogs they walk on a frequent basis. It is very fulfilling for the volunteers as they are contributing to their community and not having to beg, which can be humiliating. The initiative is equally good for the well-being of our dogs.

The vineyards that the dogs traverse through. Has a farmer given permission for access?

Yes, we have permission to walk our dogs in the vineyards. The views and walk are incredible and it is lovely to be able to have our dogs in the countryside as opposed to walking along the road.

How has this initiative contributed to rehoming the dogs at your welfare organization?

The exposure by Heartflow and the Stellenbosch Municipality has reached far and wide, and we have had new visitors to the shelter who before didn’t know we were situated in Devon Valley.

How would your organization, encourage other initiatives where all sentient beings benefit?

Making a difference is what we aim for each day, but it is the combined effort of many that will create change and truly transform the lives of sentient beings.

Through charity or giving of self, we create a deeper sense of community and purpose. Our Mission: We recognize animals as living beings with the right to a good quality of life, which is what we strive for on a daily basis. We invite community members and encourage anyone who is passionate about the welfare and wellbeing of animals to join their winning team by becoming a volunteer, supporter, and donor.

There's nothing like a refreshing dip after frisk exercise, fresh air, and interaction that involves the benefits of a rewarding exchange where kindness is the catalyst that boosts confidence, happiness, and optimism... clearly love never fails.

Writing by Nikki Otto, Photography courtesy Animal Welfare Society Stellenbosch and Unsplash.