Woodrock News & Newsletters

Woolworths MyDifference users are encouraged to review and select the causes they support before the end of this month. If you’re wondering what the simplest way is to support our rescues, it starts with something you’re probably already doing: shopping at Woolworths. But here’s the catch: We can only benefit from your support if you’ve selected us as a chosen beneficiary on Woolworths MyDifference. So, this is a gentle reminder to please make sure you’ve added us. By add

He arrived matted; his face hidden by years of neglect. But underneath the heavy tangled curls was a special young boy with so much love to give. Jasper came to us during an outreach in Danville after his owner said they no longer wanted him. We were told he was “attacking the other dogs” and needed to be taken away. But the dog who arrived told a very different story. Jasper was severely matted, his coat completely covering his eyes. Had he ever been groomed in his you

As Mental Health Awareness Month is recognised globally this May, we’re reminded that support doesn’t always arrive in big, obvious ways: sometimes, it’s found in small, meaningful moments of connection. It is this understanding which inspired the creation of Woodrock’s innovative wellness programme, Paws @ Work, which harnesses the power of “furry antidepressants” to ease stress and anxiety in even the most high-powered environments. Initially piloted at a leading healthca

Eben Pet-zebeth, a black Boerboel cross Mastiff, weighed just 38kg when he arrived at Woodrock. Frail and suffering from seizures, he was referred to the Johannesburg Specialist Veterinary Centre for further testing. It was there that he met Minki, a receptionist of five years and a certified trainer, at a time when her world had been turned upside down. “Something about him stopped me in my tracks,” says Minki. “He came into my life at a time when I needed him most — t

Catwalk pictures: Eunice Driver Photography We’re beaming with pride after our pre-loved shoes and accessories lit up the catwalk at SA Fashion Week! From statement necklaces to beautifully bags, boots to heels, pieces sourced from our Woodrock thrift store in Parkwood stepped into a bold new chapter, reimagined on the runway as part of the Fundudzi by Craig Jacobs show. Titled There’s Nothing New Under the Sun, the collection was crafted entirely from offcuts, repurpo

Fashion lovers, thrifters and treasure hunters, we have exciting news! Woodrock Thrift is heading to South African Fashion Week this Friday, 24 April, at Hyde Park, Johannesburg. Our moment on the fashion week ramp comes after we were asked to accessorise the new range by Fundudzi by Craig Jacobs, a brand rooted in sustainability, heritage and conscious design. Titled “There’s Nothing New Under the Sun,” this collection is made entirely from offcuts, repurposed garments a

At Woodrock Animal Rescue, connection is at the heart of everything we do. This past weekend was a beautiful reflection of that. We partnered on not one, but two puppy yoga experiences across Johannesburg, bringing together movement, mindfulness, and rescue in a truly special way. At our farm in Hennops Valley, Wellness Club hosted Paws and Poses : a joyful flow of wagging tails, deep stretches, and plenty of puppy love in every pose. At the same time, our pop-up adop

At Woodrock, outreach is at the heart of what we do. It’s how we bring prevention and care directly into communities, supporting both animals and the people who love them. On Friday, 20 March, our team visited Danville, a community west of Pretoria where many rely on outreach support to give their animals the veterinary care they desperately need. ON THE DAY: 80 dogs vaccinated against rabies 80 dogs dipped, dewormed, and treated for ticks and fleas 8 animals treated fo

At Woodrock Animal Rescue, donkeys have a special place in our hearts. Our co-founder Nicholas Meldau has always spoken about the deep suffering these tender-natured animals endure. In fact, from a young age he dreamt of opening a donkey sanctuary. And while Woodrock’s journey has grown into a broader rescue mission for animals in need, donkeys are an important part of our rescue work. Donkeys need proper care. They need safety. And they need love. This truth became heartbre

What began after the award-winning real estate powerhouse’s two entrepreneurial children sought to support animal rescue has grown into a meaningful partnership – and the arrival of the new Woodrock Thrift store in Parkwood. For Byron Thomas, his connection with Woodrock Animal Rescue began with a simple but powerful idea sparked by his children. After making and selling bracelets in their neighbourhood, the two philanthropically minded youngsters set out to donate the mone

From snare victim to second chance Towards the end of last year, we got a call about two dogs barking frantically at the river nearby. When we arrived, we found Lester - an Africanis - caught in a snare. The wire had embedded deeply into his neck. In trying to free himself, he had snapped the snare, but it remained lodged in him, causing immense pain. By his side was Luke, a black spaniel cross, fiercely protective and unwilling to let anyone near Lester. At Woodrock, we w

As the tax year draws to a close on 28 February , this is your last week to make a meaningful difference while also receiving a tax benefit. That’s because, when you donate to Woodrock Animal Rescue before the end of the tax year, your contribution may qualify for a tax deduction under Section 18A of the Income Tax Act. This means your generosity doesn’t only change lives – it can also reduce your taxable income. Why Donate Now? • Your donation rescues. • Your donation rehab

Love was truly in the air at Nine Yards on Valentine’s Day when Woodrock Animal Rescue hosted our very first Bark-chelor - a playful celebration of rescue, second chances, and forever homes. Inspired by the drama of a certain popular dating show, the Bark-chelor swapped cocktail gowns for wagging tails and replaced red carpet moments with rescue stories that touched every heart at the green lung precinct in Parktown North. Nicole Capper visits us at Nine Yards And while ever

While audiences are swept away by the iconic song “Memory” in CATS, the cast recently created a few heartwarming memories of their own at the Woodrock Cat Cafe. Currently captivating audiences at the Teatro at Montecasino until 22 February 2026, the cast took time out of their performance schedule to visit Woodrock’s feline residents - each with their own powerful story of rescue and renewal. Ché-jean Jupp (who plays Munkustrap in the production) reflected on the visit: “It

Fashion lovers, thrifters and treasure hunters - we have exciting news! Woodrock Thrift has moved into a beautiful new space in Parkwood, thanks to a generous partnership with Byron Thomas Properties . This marks an exciting new chapter for our thrift initiative which blends style, sustainability and compassion in a way that feels both chic and deeply meaningful. A New Home for Pre-Loved Fashion Located at 29 Glamorgan Road , just around the corner from our popular Pop-Pup

She was hurt, abandoned, and left alone. This is Sage’s story — and how you can help make sure justice is done. Sage’s Story On Sunday, January 11 th , Sage , a black-and-white Pitbull-type dog, was found outside Woodrock Animal Rescue in Hennops River Valley. She was critically injured, clearly in pain, and had been abandoned when she needed help most. All the signs pointed that this girl’s severe injuries and suffering was the result of a brutal and illegal practice. Sa

Woodrock Animal Rescue’s much-loved Pop-Pups are back from this Saturday, 10 January, inviting Joburgers to meet rescue dogs, connect with their community, and find a forever friend. The wait is over! Our popular Pop-Pups return this weekend, bringing rescue dogs back into the heart of Johannesburg’s suburbs and giving you the chance to connect, engage, and fall in love. We are looking forward to seeing you again at Fourways Crossing and at our brand new home in Parktown Nor

This year, we battled crises without warning, overwhelming moments and days that felt bigger than our team… and you carried us through every single one. Thank you, though, never feels big enough, so instead of words, these are the numbers YOU made possible. OUTREACH STERILISATIONS — WHERE YOU HELPED US SHOW UP This year, your support allowed us to reach communities where access to veterinary care is limited. Areas where we sterilised: Walkerville Virginia Olievenhoutbosch She

As we reflect on the year as it draws to a close, one truth stands clear: None of what we achieved this year could have happened without you! Real change is never the work of one – it is built with many hands, each giving what they can. At Woodrock, we are alive to the power of people taking up space and showing up with heart. Thank you to our volunteers and donors for helping us turn small acts of care into life-changing moments for animals and the people who love them. ED

Thank you to every donor, supporter, adopter and volunteer. You are the reason Woodrock can breathe through the pressure. Shelters look simple from the outside, but on the ground, things can get brittle: heartbreak, courage, and relentless work! Your kindness is our strength. Your belief is our lifeline. Your support is the bridge that carries every animal toward hope. We do the work; you make it possible. This year, we battled crises without warning, overwhelming moments and