24/09/2024
ā¤ļøBe the Reason Someone Believes in Good Peopleā¤ļø
This simple yet profound message resonated deeply with me as I strolled around Piels Farm last Friday, alongside Helen, Chase, and Bongani from Rainbow Nation Animals(RNA). Their compassion, dedication, and unwavering belief in the good they bring to the world is at the heart of everything they do.
Sixteen years ago, it all began with one sick dog. Today, 131 dogs find a safe haven and daily care at Piels Farm, all thanks to RNA.
Helen, Chase, and Bongani ensure that these dogs are fed every single day of the year, rain or shine. Bongani, who lives on the farm, is there with the dogs, making sure they are nourished, loved, and safe. Itās an incredible commitmentā1.4 tons of food is donated monthly to keep them going.
Their philosophy is simple yet powerful:
"No one gets left behind" Every dog receives what they need, and no dog is fed unless a sterilization agreement is in place. As we walked through the farm, you could feel the excitement from the dogs. Each one received a treat, a rub, or a scratch as their name was called, and their history shared with pride.
One of the dogs, Smollie, goes to the JHB Eye Clinic for monthly check-ups, and another, Zondi, defies the odds at 15 years oldāan age most township dogs donāt live to see. Two-tone, who is blind and old, still perks up for a treat and a gentle rub. Rambo, Andy, Peanut, Rex, Smooshy, Awadi, and countless othersāeach one has a name, a story, and a place in someoneās heart.
But my favorite was Backup. This grinning dog came rushing towards me, teeth bared in what I thought was a menacing snarl. I braced myself for the worst, but all Backup wanted was loveāand a treat. That silly, smiling dog stole my heart in an instant.
Recently, one of the Blue Saddle Ranches residents generously donated 70 liters of paint to RNA. And in true Helen fashion, she ensured it would be put to good use.
A portion of the paint is going to the church on Piels Farm, another 25 liters is heading to Zeerust for a cat refuge, and the rest will go to a pit bull sanctuary in greater Walkerville area.
Rainbow Nation Animals doesnāt just look after dogs; they raise funds through creative workshops, crafting blankets and goods from pallet wood, keeping their community of dogs and supporters thriving.
As for how Blue Saddle Ranches can help, weāve set up a collection bin at the clubhouse for RNA.
Every little bit countsādonations of any pet food & blankets, builders strong buckets, support, a helping hand, or even just spreading the word. It all helps.
To the helpers, the unsung heroes who show up every day: thank you. You are always there, and the world is a kinder place because of you.
ā¤ļøLet's keep believing in good people.ā¤ļø
Photo: Backup the smiling dog.
