With repairs expected to take at least a month, foster homes are urgently needed to help keep these dogs safe, warm and cared for while the kennels are rebuilt.

TEARS kennels are currently full and, as winter sets in, every animal adopted makes space for another one to get off the streets, out of the rain, and into the care of TEARS, says the organisation.

TEARS Operations Manager, Mandy Store, says, "We have a lot of very young puppies that need bottle-feeding. Being a foster parent takes a very special type of person, but it is so rewarding."

Potential bottle-baby fosters need to have previous bottle-feeding experience and should preferably live in the Southern Suburbs or Deep South areas to ensure easy access to support and veterinary care when needed, adds the organisation.

"Last month, we only had 29 dogs adopted, mostly puppies. We have many puppies that have been surrendered or found by us, it's very sad and quite scary. This is why sterilising animals is so important," says Store.

This winter, TEARS is placing a special focus on adult dog adoptions and fostering. "We need to get as many of our beautiful dogs into caring homes as possible," concludes Store. 

For more information, visit www.tears.org.za. You can also follow TEARS on Facebook, X, or on Instagram.

*Image courtesy of contributor