The Animal Welfare Society Stellenbosch (AWSS) received international recognition at the prestigious LUXlife Pet Products and Services Awards, receiving two honours for 2026.

The local organisation received the award for Animal Welfare Champions of the Year 2026: South Africa and the Pet Services Dedication Excellence Award 2026.

The awards recognise organisations that demonstrate outstanding commitment to animal welfare and meaningful contributions to the global pet-care and animal-protection sector.

Following a comprehensive evaluation conducted by LUXlife’s independent judging panel, AWSS was selected for the impact of its work, commitment to ethical practices and its high standards of care.

For seven decades it has protected and cared for the community’s animals. Receiving this international recognition is meaningful, as it reflected the compassion, hard work and unwavering commitment brought to animal welfare every day.

The AWSS said it believes such an achievement belongs, equally, to its inspectors and animal-welfare staff, compassionate veterinary team providing life-saving care, the adoptions team that works tirelessly to match animals with loving homes and its outreach teams who support and educate communities.

Also, it said, the many staff and volunteers working behind the scenes, not to mention the many supporters, donors, volunteers and partners.

“This recognition means so much to all of us at AWSS,” said general manager Jessica Perrins.

“It reflects the passion and dedication of an extraordinary team that works every day to give animals the care, protection and second chances they deserve.”