Written by Amy Gooden, Adoptions Manager: Animal Anti-Cruelty League – Durban & Pietermaritzburg
Professional photography by Antony Cousens Photography
Four tiny kittens were brought to Animal Anti-Cruelty League (AACL) – Durban & Pietermaritzburg Branch on the 29th of March 2025 in the most heartbreaking way – huddled together in a plastic bucket.
They were just a few weeks old: tiny, wet, painfully thin, and understandably terrified. It was clear that they’d been through far more than any new-born life should.
Our team immediately began caring for them, doing everything that we could to help them survive and thrive. Despite our best efforts, one of the little ones was just too weak to survive. Losing her was a painful reminder of the fragility of the lives that we care for, but we held on to hope for the remaining three.
Each day, they began to grow stronger. It was a privilege to witness their transformation – from vulnerable little creatures into healthy, playful, and curious kittens. Every milestone felt like a small miracle: the first confident step, the first purr, the first time that they played without fear.
One of those little survivors was Juniper. We knew that she had a spark, and she proved it with her cheeky nature, bright eyes, and playful charm. When the time came to find them loving homes, Juniper was more than ready. And she found her perfect match. Now called Luna, she’s settled into a home where she’s cherished and treated like the princess that she is. Seeing her so happy, safe, and loved reminds us why we do what we do every single day. To Luna’s forever family: Thank you for giving her the life that she always deserved.
Sumantha Reddy, Luna’s owner, shares...
After following the Animal Anti-Cruelty League (AACL) on Instagram for a few weeks, I came across a photo of a grey kitten named Juniper. Her soulful expression and striking features immediately caught my attention. I’d viewed many kittens during that time, but something about her stood out. I sent a message to AACL and received a quick response.
She felt special, and I didn’t want to miss the chance to adopt her. Without meeting her in person, I decided to move forward with the adoption. She was just eight weeks old.
The home inspection went smoothly, and I completed the adoption paperwork shortly after.
On the 19th of May, Juniper, now renamed Luna, was delivered to our home. She settled in quickly and now rules the household. Our older dogs are completely besotted with her. I chose the name Luna because of her soft grey coat and quiet, calming presence which reminded me of moonlight.
Luna is endlessly curious, loves playing in the garden, and has the loudest purrs. She always comes when called and delights in playing hide and seek. Every morning, I wake to her perched on my chest, purring – a gentle, joyful start to the day.
Adopting Luna was a deeply meaningful experience. It gave her a second chance and supported the vital work that AACL does to rescue and rehome animals in need. Luna has made our home feel complete, and she’s so deeply loved.
