A Symphony of Paws and Hearts
- Karen Scheepers
- 2 hours ago
- 4 min read
As the world turns its attention toward the traditional month of romance, at PAWS Haven, February is not merely about roses and chocolates; it is a profound testament to the resilience of the animal spirit and the unyielding dedication of a community that refuses to look away. The organization is blooming, transforming from a simple shelter into a beacon of hope where second chances are not just promised, but delivered.
A Legacy Written in Love: The Wall of Hearts
The most poignant addition to the haven this year is the Wall of Hearts. Inspired by the world-famous love-lock bridges, this installation serves as a sanctuary for remembrance. At PAWS Haven, the philosophy is simple: love does not end when a goodbye is whispered.
For a contribution of R50, supporters can commission a custom 10 x 9 cm heart to honor a beloved companion who has crossed the "Rainbow Bridge". These hearts represent souls that left indelible paw prints on human lives, loved deeply and lost painfully, but secured forever in a place of public honor. It is a visual reminder that for those who have shared their lives with an animal, that specific brand of love never fades; it lives on "FURever".
Adding to the festive spirit of the month, the organization is hosting its Very First Bake Sale Fundraiser on Saturday, 14 February 2026, at MooiRivier Mall. This event promises more than just sweets; it is a community celebration featuring face painting, a photo booth, and mascots. Beyond the cupcakes for humans and "pupcakes" for fur-babies, the team will be on-site for "paw-fect matchmaking," helping residents find their ideal animal companions while introducing the community to the vision of PAWS Haven's new leadership.
Transformation Alert: Beyond the Surface
The physical transformation of the animals often mirrors their emotional healing. This was recently highlighted by Bean, a small dog who underwent a stunning makeover thanks to professional grooming. After being pampered, a "splinternuut" (brand new) Bean visited the residents at Samuel Broadbent, distributing "cuddles like confetti" and bringing smiles to the elderly. Bean, described as a passionate and devoted boy, remains available for adoption, waiting for a home where he can truly belong.
The shelter extends its deepest gratitude to partners like Tannie Martie Butler of Potch Dierespa and the team at Nat Snoet. Their patience and care allow these dogs to walk with newfound confidence, proving that a little grooming can be the first step toward a new life.
The Miracle of Finding Home: Recent Adoption Successes
The ultimate goal of PAWS Haven is to empty its kennels and fill homes with joy. The recent weeks have seen a surge of "Happy Endings" that have touched the hearts of the staff and volunteers alike:
Stephen's Journey to the Stars: After spending two years in the cattery,two long years of waiting, Stephen has finally been adopted. Known for his love of "outer space," Stephen’s dreams are now as big as the stars as he settles into a forever home filled with soft beds and adventure.
Milo’s Soft Landing: Milo, who famously stole hearts during his visits to Samuel Broadbent, has officially found a safe and loving family. His gentle personality and large heart have found the perfect place to rest.
The Power of Four: In a rare and beautiful "bulk" adoption, Evy the dog, along with three kittens named Raven, Jack, and Jill, were all adopted together under one roof. This lucky quartet is now experiencing the luxury of full bowls and endless pampering.
A "Ginger" Dash: One lucky ginger kitten proved that "love at first sight" is real, being signed in one day and adopted the next.
Oliver and Celeste: Oliver, the free-roaming ginger favorite, and Celeste, the playful Calico, have also moved on to their new chapters. While Oliver will be deeply missed at the haven, the staff celebrates his new beginning.
Double Trouble: Buddy the Greyhound and Cheesegrill the Dachshund puppy were adopted together. Despite their vastly different sizes and personalities, they have become best friends, ready to steal hearts in their new home.
The "Worsie" Rule: Penny, a brown Dachshund, chose her new mother, Marina, with a single look, proving that sometimes the animals choose their humans.
Waiting for a Miracle: Seun and Layla
Despite these successes, some animals require a very specific kind of hero. Seun (9 years old) and Layla (5 years old) were signed over together and are looking for a home that understands that true love does not separate. They are a package deal, loyal, gentle, and inseparable. PAWS Haven is searching for a special heart willing to give these two a second chapter together.
A Grateful Community
The "four-legged residents" of PAWS Haven wish to send a message of thanks to the public for the influx of food, toys, and bedding over the last two weeks. These donations allow the animals to eat well, play hard, and sleep soundly (with the occasional snore). Every bag of food and every warm blanket keeps tails wagging and "snoeties" happy.
SCAM ALERT: Protecting the Vulnerable
Unfortunately, the desperation of pet owners can sometimes be exploited. PAWS Haven has issued an Urgent Scam Alert following a recent incident. A woman whose dog went missing was contacted by an individual claiming to have found the pet and demanding a R150 payment. After she paid, the person demanded more money; she still has not recovered her dog.
The Public is urged to remain vigilant:
Never pay money before physically seeing your pet.
Demand clear photos or videos of the animal with the current date.
Request a live video call to verify the animal is in their possession.
Arrange meetings only at vets, police stations, or known organizations.
Do not be pressured by threats or urgency; anyone refusing proof but demanding money is likely a scammer.
Reunions: The Ultimate Reward
In a final piece of joyous news, the efforts of the PAWS Haven team have resulted in three local families being made whole again. Two dogs and one kitten that were found lost and frightened have been successfully reunited with their original owners. These moments of relief and tears of joy are exactly why the volunteers at PAWS Haven continue their tireless work.
By standing together, protecting one another from scams, and opening hearts to adoption, the Potchefstroom community continues to make PAWS Haven a place where miracles happen every day.
All image credits: Paws Haven Potchefstroom
🐾 ❤️ 🐕 🐈 🧁
Comments