GEORGE NEWS - After years of pouring their hearts into rescuing and caring for abandoned and neglected animals, the team behind Oudtshoorn Dogs in Need (Odin) is appealing to the public to help find a new property closer to George.
The sanctuary's current home in the Langkloof has been a blessing and has enabled the organisation to save countless lives.
However, the daily commute between George, Oudtshoorn and the sanctuary is unsustainable, placing enormous pressure on the organisation's already stretched resources.
Not only has the constant travelling taken a heavy toll on Odin's fuel budget and vehicles, but the physical and emotional strain on Colleen Smith, Marlene Mennie and their dedicated team is becoming impossible to ignore.
The recent extreme weather has added to their challenges. The relentless wind that swept through the region and uprooted hundreds of trees did not spare the sanctuary.
Kennels were damaged and had to be rebuilt, while access roads to the dogs became impassable. This was exacerbated by the heavy rainfall and yet another severe storm last week.
Despite this, Odin has continued to provide care to the many dogs depending on them every day.
"We are exhausted," Smith said. "But we have to continue, because the animals need us."
Purpose-built facility
What would make the facility on a new premises different from the previous ones Odin had set up is that Odin already has approved plans for a purpose-built rescue facility.
"We've always had to fit into whatever space became available at the last minute, so we've never had the opportunity to operate from a purpose-built rescue facility," said Smith.
The planned centre includes soundproof barns and runs for the dogs. The design focuses on noise control and maintaining a small footprint, allowing them to create a facility that is both practical and considerate of neighbouring properties.
Smith says they will also continue their community involvement by means of a dog park, an interactive area, the Cat Café and boarding facilities.
Odin is now appealing to the public to help find a suitable property closer to George. A more accessible property would not only reduce travel time and operating costs, but would also allow the team to spend more time in communities conducting outreaches, sterilisation projects and helping vulnerable animals.
The ideal property would offer enough space to accommodate the sanctuary and provide a haven for the many dogs currently in Odin's care.
A new property would mean more time with the animals, more resources directed towards rescue work and a sustainable future.
Anyone who knows of a suitable property, or who may be able to assist Odin in making this dream a reality, is asked to contact the organisation on 072 084 1374.
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