Written, and photos supplied by Chantel Monnery
Jean Pike and I met Santa Paws for Cause at the end of 2014. This nationwide initiative for shelter animals is similar to the Santa boxes for children in which members of the public shop for and pack a gift for a child in need – Santa Cause for Paws focuses on animals instead. They help an incredible number of shelter animals each year with food, treats, toys and other necessities.
Since that moment, Jean and I became instant friends with a shared love for helping animals.
Shelter animals have so little and we wanted to make their lives more comfortable, so we started asking for donations to make beds for them. But it was tough going – donations were few and far between.
So, in 2015, we created the “Rescue Beds Made With Love” Facebook page with the aim of showcasing their plight and to source donations of beds, blankets, towels, and other comfort items – anything that can be used for or made into beds. Empty bread bags and ice cream containers, pet accessories, food and more are all gratefully received.
Since then, we’re proud to have handed over more than 400 items to various animal shelters for dogs and cats and small animals. They’ve gone as far as Oudtshoorn Dogs in Need.
It’s thanks to our amazing donors that we’re able to assist. The love and support received has been overwhelming – it takes a village to help animals in need.
Wish list
Rescue Beds Made With Love is always looking for new or clean second-hand:
- Pillows
- Duvet inners
- Duvet covers
- Pillowcases
- Sheets
- Material thin enough to go through a normal sewing machine
- Blankets
- Towels
- Empty bread bags and ice cream containers
- Collars
- Leads
- Dog bowls
Pet food and cat litter are also always in need.
Should you wish to contribute, we’re based in Pinelands and Edgemead in Cape Town. Should you want to find, donate and/or sponsor a bed, WhatsApp 082 923 2614, or follow us on Facebook.
