A fire broke out early on Thursday morning at the TEARS Animal Rescue shelter in Sunnydale in Cape Town, sparking panic among staff and volunteers as flames threatened the lives of dozens of dogs.
The emergency call came in just after 05:00, prompting a rapid response from TEARS Operations Manager Mandy Store and General Manager Heidi May, who immediately began mobilising support.
All dogs saved
Volunteers, fire services, and community members rushed to the scene to save the animals.
Thanks to their quick action, all the dogs were moved to safety, with many relocated into the organisation’s clinic kennels.
No animals were lost, but several Wendy houses – temporary shelters used to house the dogs – were destroyed.
Staff described heartbreaking scenes as dogs tried desperately to dig under gates in a bid to escape, unaware that help was already on the way.
Many are now being treated for smoke inhalation and stress, but are expected to recover fully.
Shelter Calls for Urgent Help to Rebuild
TEARS is now appealing to the public for urgent donations – either materials or funds – to help rebuild the destroyed enclosures and restore a sense of normalcy for the animals.
Items urgently needed include:
- Roofing sheets
- Pavers
- Vibracrete walling
- Bedding
“Every donation, big or small, will go towards rebuilding a safe space for our dogs.
“The support we’ve already received shows that when our community stands together, we can overcome anything,” said a TEARS spokesperson.
Fire Services Praised
TEARS has extended deep gratitude to the City of Cape Town Fire Services, Traffic Services, CMR, and the volunteers who arrived in the dark of morning to assist.
“The bravery and quick response of these teams prevented a tragic loss,” the shelter said.
If you are in a position to donate to the TEARS Animal Rescue shelter, click here.