When I got to the dusty road near Kuruman, the sun had already set behind the koppies. The fields looked golden in the light, and everything was calm and peaceful. But behind that view, we knew animals – and people – needed our help.
As an Inspector in the NSPCA’s Farm Animal Protection Unit, I’ve walked hundreds of kilometres in boots caked in mud, sweat-soaked uniform on my back, and a notebook filled with names, towns, and needs. Between January and March this year, as part of our work with emerging farmers, our boots touched ground in 39 towns across South Africa – from Richards Bay to Port Elizabeth, Olifantshoek to Mahikeng, Christiana to Komani – each community with its own unique challenges.
We met emerging farmers who had the passion but not always the skills. People trying to build a better life, feeding their families through small-scale farming. But so often, they didn’t have the knowledge or resources to properly care for their animals. Not out of cruelty – but from a lack of access, education, and support.
That’s where our work begins. We don’t arrive to judge – we come to uplift.
We teach.
We show how clean water changes everything.
We explain how simple shelter can save a life.
We run workshops, offer training, give practical advice, and follow up – always.
We give written warnings when needed. And sometimes, when animals are truly suffering, we enforce the law. But more often than not, we see change. We see people eager to learn.
In Tsolo, one farmer told me, “No one has ever explained these things to me before. Now I know better, I will do better.” That’s why we do this. That’s why we drive for hours, sleep in unfamiliar towns, and carry the weight of every inspection home with us.
We’re not just protecting animals – we’re building something better. One farmer, one animal, one dusty pair of boots at a time.
But we can’t do it without your help.
Support the NSPCA’s Farm Animal Protection Unit.
Your donation keeps our Inspectors on the road, delivering life-changing assistance to animals and the people who rely on them.
If you are as passionate about animals and their well-being as we are, consider supporting our causes by donating.
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Will You Be the One Who Takes Action?
Most people will scroll past this. But will you be the one who stands up for animals?
Animal welfare isn’t always in the spotlight, but it changes lives – for every neglected, abused, or suffering animal we help. Our teams work tirelessly, often behind the scenes, ensuring animals across South Africa are protected.
This work is relentless. The challenges are immense. But with more hands, hearts, and resources, we can do even more.
The equation is simple: the more supporters we have, the greater our reach, the stronger our impact.
Be part of the change. Become an NSPCA Project Partner today. From just R50 per month, you can help ensure that no animal suffers in silence.
