Written by Elanza Kloppers – Chief Innovation & Media Officer: Dogtown South Africa
Professional photography by Ilze Joubert Photography
Abi’s Beginnings at Dogtown
Abi’s story began in September 2023 when she was found wandering the streets as a scared, emaciated stray. Despite her rough start, she was a bundle of love waiting to bloom. Covered in ticks and fleas, Abi’s health needed urgent attention, but her spirit shone through even in her timid state. She was about a year old, still a puppy at heart, with a gentle and endearing nature.
After being sterilised and given the care she desperately needed, Abi quickly captured the hearts of everyone at Dogtown SA. She was one of those rare “tick all the boxes” dogs – kind, sociable, and loving. Abi got along with kids, cats, and other dogs alike, her soft and sweet demeanour making her a favourite. It was no surprise when, just a few months later in December, she found her forever home with Cherise Meyer and her family.
Life with Mieke
At first, Abi was understandably timid and cautious in her new environment. Adjusting to a home filled with love, laughter, and five playful doggy siblings took time. Initially, she only responded to Mieke, as though she was her safety net. But one day, when Mieke wasn’t around, Abi discovered her own bravery. This was the turning point when she began to flourish, embracing her new life with open paws.
Today, Abi is an unstoppable force of joy. With five furry siblings to romp around with, the house is never quiet. Their play is loud and rowdy, with Abi in the middle of the fun, always up for a game of zoomies or a splash in the water. Her favourite activities include racing around the yard and swimming, her newfound confidence shining in every moment.
But what makes Abi truly special is her remarkable sensitivity to the emotions of her human family. She has a knack for knowing when someone needs a little extra love. On those hard days, when life feels heavy, Abi is there. She doesn’t wait for an invitation; she’ll climb into your lap, lie across you, and shower you with kisses, offering a comfort that words simply can’t provide. Her unconditional love is a reminder of the beauty and resilience of rescue dogs.
A Bright Future
Abi’s journey from a scared stray to a cherished family member is a testament to the transformative power of love and care. Her story highlights the incredible work done at Dogtown SA, where dogs like Abi are given a second chance at life. Today, Abi is thriving, her tail wagging with excitement for every new adventure. She’s a beloved part of her family, proving that sometimes the dogs who need us the most end up giving us more than we could ever imagine.
Abi’s tale is a reminder to adopt, not shop, and to give rescue dogs the opportunity to shine. Her journey is one of hope, love, and the unbreakable bond between a dog and their family. Thank you, Cherise, for opening your heart and home to Abi – you’ve given her the life she was always meant to have.
Cherise Meyer shares her daughter, Mieke, and Abi's story…
Mieke was 12 years old when she met Joanna Banks, IMDT Trainer from Dogtown SA, for dog training lessons with her GSP dog named Jager. Mieke had some emotional difficulties, and we realised from a young age that a dog helps her tremendously. Sadly, Jager passed and she was absolutely heartbroken.
Mieke didn’t get out of bed for like a month, and the only time she was happy was when she was volunteering at Dogtown SA.
She came home every Saturday telling us about the dogs she met there and I knew that Mieke would need a new dog soon.
But knowing the heartache Mieke went through, I wanted to make sure that everything was in place before I told her the plan.
I made an appointment with Gordon Banks, IMDT Animal Behaviourist and Trainer from Dogtown SA, and explained the whole situation and what type of dog Mieke would need and love.
Gordon then brought Abi down and, before she even got close to me, I knew this was Mieke’s dog. She was an Africanis mixed breed which loved attention and was so goofy.
We arranged the house visit, as well as a play date with our five other dog siblings in the family, without Mieke knowing, because if that didn’t work out, her heart would be broken.
When everything went well the adoption process was started, and still Mieke had no idea...
A video was taken of Abi and Mieke’s meeting for the first time and it was absolutely beautiful. Abi chose Mieke from the first second; we were all there and Abi just knew she was meant for Mieke.
It was love at first sight and she was Mieke’s shadow and didn’t even acknowledge the rest of our family. She sleeps in Mieke’s bed and has quickly made herself comfortable in the house.
It took her a while to warm up to the rest of our family – she’s a very sensitive dog but now she loves everyone. Some days she’ll get on top of you for cuddles, even if you tell her not to; she won’t take no for an answer and, if I think back, those days I actually needed a hug.
She now absolutely adores my other two children, Miane and Luan, as well.
We’re so grateful for Abi for mending a broken girl’s heart and making our family complete. Thank you Dogtown SA!
