LANGKLOOF – A volunteer-driven animal welfare organisation has given 144 animals across the Langkloof a healthier start to life during a three-day sterilisation campaign aimed at improving animal welfare in underserved communities.

ARK Animal Rescue, established in 2025, completed the campaign from 29 June to 1 July, sterilising 100 dogs and 44 cats from communities along the Langkloof R62.

Founded by Michelle du Plessis and Lizette Ehlers, the organisation was established to address the lack of animal welfare services in the region.

What began as a small initiative in Kareedouw has since expanded to support animals in Joubertina, Krakeel, Misgund, Louterwater and Harlem.

Du Plessis said throughout the campaign, volunteers began loading animals in the townships from 06:00 each day before transporting them for pre-operative examinations, sterilisation procedures and post-operative care.

She said that animals were returned safely to their owners after 18:00, with volunteers ensuring each had a warm place to sleep, fresh food and clean water before leaving.

In addition to being sterilised, Du Plessis said every animal was vaccinated against rabies, dewormed, treated for ticks and fleas, and sent home with a bag of food, and some animals even received kennels.

She said the campaign was a collective effort made possible by volunteers, veterinary professionals and donors.

“Over three incredible days, 144 Langkloof animals were given the chance to start a healthier, happier future,” said Du Plessis.

“It was a true labour of love.”

Du Plessis said every animal received careful attention throughout the process.

She also thanked Shannon Blewett (private veterinary technician), the Vetsol veterinary team, including Dagmar Atkinson (veterinary nurse), Luvalo Kwakhona (veterinary technician), Usisipho Oz Funde (veterinary technician), and Dr Tinashe Chimatira (veterinarian), for their care and professionalism.

Du Plessis also praised the organisation’s volunteers for their dedication, including Monique Smith, Celeste Swart, Jannike Oosthuizen, Bianca Eloff, Martie Fourie, Lizette Ehlers, Michelle Du Plessis and Sheldon Williams.

“Your commitment, early mornings, late evenings, hard work and unwavering compassion make this mission possible. You continue to inspire us every single day,” said Du Plessis.

She said the next mass sterilisation drive would take place on 26, 27 and 28 August, when they aim to sterilise 200 animals.

Du Plessis also said ARK Animal Rescue operates entirely through volunteers and depends on public support.

“Many people forget that ARK Animal Rescue Kareedouw and Langkloof is entirely volunteer-driven. We receive no guaranteed funding and rely solely on the generosity of donors, sponsors and supporters who believe in our mission,” said Du Plessis.

She also expressed gratitude to an anonymous donor who funded the sterilisation campaign.

Du Plessis also thanked every additional donor, volunteer, driver, animal owner and supporter who contributed to the success of the campaign.

“You have changed the lives of 144 animals, and together we are building a kinder future for the animals of the Langkloof,” said Du Plessis.

She added that the impact of the campaign would extend well beyond the three days.

“Every sterilisation prevents future suffering. Every act of kindness creates lasting change. Together, we are making a difference, one animal at a time,” said Du Plessis.

To raise much-needed funds for ARK Animal Rescue, retired veterinary nurse, Sandra Hardie, will host a presentation on the history of Goedgeloof, an area within St Francis Bay, as well as the broader history of the town, at St Francis Links.

The event will start at 18:00, and the cost is R100 per person.

To book for the event, send an email to info@stfrancislinks.com.

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