Exciting news! Petal Accounting has moved! Our new business address is Suite 1, Pin Oak. Corner of Pin Oak and Quarry Road Hilton.

Our telephone number has stayed the same which is 033 330 4055.

We officially open our offices on Tuesday the 6th of January this year but we are all available from the 5th for any emergencies.

For our Howick based clients, just let us know if you need documents collected and we will do that with pleasure.

My home is in Howick just around the corner from the old office and you are also welcome to drop off documents for us there.

I look forward to welcoming you at our new offices soon. Angela and the Petal Team

 

We live in a time where we are surrounded by noise.

Sensational headlines, dramatic stories, and negativity that seems to fill every space we look. The world feels faster, harsher, and more reactive than it ever before. And without realising it, many of us absorb this energy…..we mirror what we see.

Growing up, I remember we could choose feel-good movies and heartwarming stories that lifted our spirits. We thought about what we wanted to read and went to the library and we selected the books that inspired us and filled us with possibility.

Today, much of the content we encounter, even when we are not actively looking for it, is filled with aggression, conflict, and shock value because that is what sells. Slowly, we have begun to normalise that intensity and negativity in our everyday lives.

But I would like to remind you of something we often forget:

We always have a choice about what we feed our minds and hearts.

Imagine a world where:
creators intentionally produced more uplifting and inspiring stories,
we celebrated positive behaviour as loudly as we emphasised the negative,
people chose compassion and understanding before judgment,
and as a collective, we paused to ask: How can I make this moment better?

The ripple effect would be extraordinary.

Choosing positivity is not about ignoring struggle. It is about anchoring ourselves in hope, possibility, kindness, and awareness. It is a shift from focusing on what is wrong to recognising what we can rise above and transform.

So today, I would like to invite you to pause and reflect:
how can you contribute positively to the world around you today?

It may be something small like a smile, a message of encouragement, letting someone go ahead in traffic, or simply choosing not to engage in negativity.

Positivity is powerful.
It heals.
It connects us.
It changes conversations.
It influences the emotional climate of our homes, workplaces, and communities.

And most importantly….it brings us back to who we truly are.

Let us be the ones who choose hope.
Let us be the ones who spread warmth.
Let us be the ones who remind the world that goodness still exists.

Because when we choose positivity, we give others permission to do the same.

Sandra Nel - Life Coach

082 290 5640

Laddsworth Grade 7 Prize Giving, Speech Day and Bell-Ringing Ceremony

Following an extraordinary year, we proudly celebrated the achievements of the Grade 7 Class of 2025.

Thank you to Paralympian, Ms Alani Ferreira, for taking the time to share and inspire us with your story. Congratulations to all the prize winners, and a special well done to the Dux of 2025, Zoey Smith, who also received a tablet kindly donated by our valued IT supplier, CNM IT Solutions.

In a treasured Laddsworth tradition, the ringing of the bell marked this group’s final act as pupils of the school, symbolizing their legacy that will echo through our history for years to come.

Thank you, Class of 2025, for the memories, the leadership, and the achievements you leave behind.

Keep flying the Laddsworth flag and continue to Aim High

We thank all our loyal clients for their support this year, it's a been a good one. We will be closed from the 18th of December opening again in Jan, watch our Instagram page for opening dates.

We have an opening for a trainer to work out of our amazing space from January.

Please message Laura if you are interested - 079 525 6314.

Wishing you a blessed Christmas. Isaiah 9 vs 16.

Photo credit: Kristi Nicole Smith

We have gift vouchers available for both the nursery and our online store — perfect for those who love tending their gardens but are tricky to shop for.

Instead of guessing which plants they’d love to add to their garden space, let them enjoy choosing their own.

Pop in to get a stack!

For other enquiries, chat to Ben on 083 384 2815.

The Fitness Garage
We thank all our loyal clients for their support this year, it's a been a good one. We will be closed from the 18th of December opening again in Jan, watch our Instagram page for opening dates.

South African swimming superstar Chad le Clos will be taking on the gruelling 8-Mile Charity Challenge at next year’s aQuellé Midmar Mile, lending his support to those swimmers raising money for the Chad le Clos Foundation at the event next February.

The 2012 Olympic champion has long been associated with the world’s largest open-water swimming event but has not participated on a regular basis, rather focusing his efforts on the pool, where he has carved out an impressive international career.

While he’s often been on the edge of the famous KwaZulu-Natal dam lending his support, Le Clos said he’s thrilled to be taking part in a bigger way next year. “I’m very excited. To be honest, I haven't swum much at Midmar,” he said. “I've always been there whenever I could… I've always supported the Midmar Mile long before my foundation was involved, but I just really love to be there. I think it's a great day. I think from the Thursday through to the Sunday, it's just a great weekend,” he said.

The 33-year-old star added that the inclusiveness of the event remains one of its standout features. “I think what's quite unique about Midmar is that it seems to grow every year, and the fact that it just gives everybody of all ages the opportunity to compete. You know, you can be in your 80s… it's incredible. Swimming is a great sport for everybody.”

Le Clos will arrive at the aQuellé Midmar Mile after an extended break from competitive swimming, having stepped away from the pool earlier this year to recover fully from lingering injuries. The layoff has served its purpose, and the Olympic champion is now firmly targeting a return to top form, with qualification for next July’s Commonwealth Games the first step as he builds back towards elite competition.

While his long-term focus is on regaining race sharpness, the 8-Mile Charity Challenge provides an opportunity to channel his efforts into something more meaningful than medals. “In terms of the foundation, it's been a huge blessing to be a part of Midmar. Last year we raised a decent amount of money for charity, which is really, really great,” he said.

Established in 2018, the Chad le Clos Foundation works to create safer access to water across South Africa through drowning-prevention initiatives, water-safety education, and community engagement. Its programmes include developing young swimmers from disadvantaged communities, supporting promising talent with coaching and competition opportunities, and launching long-term projects aimed at reducing drownings in open-water and pool environments.

For Le Clos, swimming the 8-Mile Challenge is a way to connect with those supporting the cause. “For me personally, I'm really excited to swim the eight miles. I'm going to be doing a mile with each of the people who are swimming for my foundation,” he explained.

“So I'll be swimming a mile with each and just trying to lend my name and try to be the best I can, for the kids, to be honest.”

Having already raised millions for charity since the aQuellé Midmar Mile 8 and 16-Mile Charity Challenge began, organisers expect another impactful year of generating funds for worthy causes.

The 53rd aQuellé Midmar Mile takes place from 5-8 February 2026, with the Charity Challenge events on the first two days and the main events on the last two. Entries are currently open at www.midmarmile.com with Early Bird prices coming to an end on 21 December. Those individuals or companies eager to contribute to the Charity Challenge can head to: https://midmarmile.com/pages/how-to-fundraise-for-the-charity-challenge

A Letter from Gary

Dear valued Clients and Our Dedicated KSS Team,

As we celebrate another festive season and look toward a bright new year, we want to take a moment to share our heartfelt gratitude. since opening our doors in 1989, Knight Security Solutions has grown, evolved, and stood strong - because of you.

To our clients: Thank you for placing your trust in us fer more than three decades. your loyalty. partnership, and belief in the work we do have shaped who we are today. Serving this community is an honour, and we are deeply grateful te be part of your safety and success.

To our staff: You are the heart of KSS. Your unwavering dedication, professionalism, and courage have carried us through every challenge and every achievement. Thank you for showing up- day and knight - with integrity and commitment that reflect the very best of our values.

This season reminds us of what truly matters: connection, community, and looking after one another. We are proud to stand beside you, and we look forward to continuing our journey together as we build an even safer, stronger future.

From our KSS family to yours, we wish you a joyful festive season and a prosperous New Year.

Thank you for supporting us since 1989.
Here's to many more years together.

Warm regards
Gary

Holiday security tips - home and business,
The festive season brings both joy and the inevitable criminal element. Whether you’re planning a holiday getaway or staying at home, ensuring the safety of your property is paramount to KSS.

Here are some practical tips for both home and business security during this holiday season.

Home security tips
House sitter or Trusted Neighbour: Consider gating a house sitter er ask your neighbour to open and close curtains., creating the illusion of an occupied home. They can also take care of your pets for you.

Alarm system: Ensure your alarm system covers all access points., is user-friendly and linked to Alarm, the KSS APP or your cell phone for remote control.

Armed Response: Invest in KSS Armed Response services to ensure immediate assistance so as not to endanger or inconvenience your keyholder.

CCTV system: install visible exterior CCTV cameras as a deterrent and for potential crime documentation. You can also monitor these from your cell phone wherever you may be.

Reduce Hiding Places: Trim bushes and foliage around your property te eliminate potential hiding places for criminals.

Assess Access Points: Check for vulnerable windows and ensure security gates are robust. Make sure all visible items are not Ieft lying around or visible from the roadside.

24/7 Technical support: KSS has a 24/7 technical security support on email for immediate assistance with alarm, CCTV camera, electric fence, and gate issues.

Stay Vigilant in Holiday Mode: Be mindful of open. doors and security gates, even when in a relaxed holiday mode.

Inform Security Company: Notify KSS er your security provider about your absence. Also ensure that alternative contact numbers are given so that the correct people can be contacted in your absence.

Business Security Tips
Conduct a Security Assessment: Evaluate lighting. locks. windows, doors. parking lots and alarm systems.

Deterrent Measures: Implement adequate lighting, high - quality locks and reinforce entry points. CCTV cameras and additional guarding are also an option. Please note that KSS are happy to check and ensure that your buddilock and remotes are also in working order.

Surveillance and Parking Lots: Maintain well-lit parking lots with proper surveillance.

Staff Training: Regularly inspect and educate staff on alarm systems and take precautions against weather related issues.

Going Away:
Pre-Travel Security Checklist (Approx. 3 weeks prior): Test your alarm system. replace back up batteries, repair electric fences and confirm signals are being received by the security company. Make sure your CCTV cameras are working and recording.

1 Week Before Departure: Trim foliage around electric fences and any other hiding places along the fence line. Inform KSS and or community patrol about your absence. Advise KSS about any temporary keyholder information.
Be security conscious even while you are away!

By implementing these security measures, both at home and your business. you can enjoy a safer and more secure holiday season. Stay vigilant, communicate with KSS or your security provider and take proactive steps to protect your property and loved ones.

For ANY Security and Electronic System Assistance: Contact Knight Security Solutions on 033 330 5911 anytime day and knight.

Wishing you all a safe and blessed holiday season.

Kind Regards
Gary and the dedicated KSS Team

Understanding the Power of Ozone Therapy

Whether you are an athlete or suffer from poor health, taking care of yourself can be stressful, and confusing. Insufficient cellular oxygen and inflammation are major causes of poor health, and oxygen delivery is fundamental to producing energy, healing and keeping fit. Many people are opting for more natural and holistic treatments for low immunity, regular colds and flu, autoimmune diseases, and so on. Ozone therapy is one of the methods that has peen shown to increase and improve the body's oxygen utilisation, creating a healthier environment that boosts the mmune system and supports normal cell function.

When ozone is introduced into the body, a remarkable thing happens. It stimulates the mitochondria in your cells ten times more efficiently than ordinary oxygen. You can consume oxygen, but if your body is not using it efficiently, it is wasted Efficient oxygen utilisation is imperative forimproving and maintaining a healthy state.

Ozone therapy is the most advanced oxygen-based treatment available. It provides powerful healing effects that regular oxygen therapy your immune system, and enjoy better overall health.

• Ozone stimulates the production of white blood cells. These cells protect the body from viruses, bacteria, fungo and cancer.
• 
  Ozone is a potent regulator of the immune system. This means that when the immune system is overactive, as in autoimmune disease, ozone will calm it down. Conversely, when the immune system is underactive, as in cancer, ozone will stimulate it.
• 
  Ozone has an alkalising effect on the body. Disease thrives in an acidic environment.
• 
  Ozone can reduce inflammation and pain.
• 
  Oxygen delivery is increased, blood and lymph are detoxified, and circulation is increased throughout the body.

While ozone works to reduce inflammation, detox, and modulate your immune system, Thermography, or Clinical Thermal lmaging, is used to find inflammation. It is a test of risk factors and detects physiological changes in the body. Changes in a body's physiology precede changes in the anatomy.

Thermography is 100% safe. There is no radiation, pain or compression involved. It is a highly sensitive method to assess all risk factors in your current breast and body health. You can visually monitor the results of your treatment and preventive plans in real time. It isa way to decide whether to stay the course or make adjustments.

While Ozone and Thermography are separate methods, both work hand-in-hand if you are looking for more holistic practises to monitor your health and well-being.

"An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." - Benjamin Franklin.

LYNNE is a Certified Clinical Thermographer and Ozone Practitioner with 16 years' experience. She is based in Hilton and runs her own clinic, specialising in drug-free therapies for pain, injury, and disease.

Contact 082 828 6778

The James Craib Field is home to the Hilton Eagles Sports Club, a homeschool-centred community playing team sports including soccer, hockey, ultimate, touch rugby and softball. This provides a social, outdoor and skills-based environment for children to play team sports outside of the school structure. The ages served range from four years upward to the competitive senior teenage team.

Ultimate – commonly known as “Frisbee”, but this is a patented brand – is currently the most popular sport. The seven-a-side game requires athleticism, coordination and skill. This growing sport is coordinated by SAFDA (South African Flying Disc Association), and we anticipate seeing further growth in the coming years.

The teenage Eagles team took part in the Eastern Region (KZN) Regionals in April and September, and recently competed at Uprising, an U20 tournament of 10 teams attracting players from five provinces. After a close loss of 11-8 in the play-offs to the eventual winners the Rambs (Durban), the Eagles narrowly succumbed to the Donkeys (Pietermaritzburg) 12-10 in the semi-finals, before going on to beat the Jackals (Lion’s River) 11-10 for third place.

Earlier in the year, an U24 squad – the Wild Dogs – was selected to represent South Africa at the U24 World Championships in Spain. Four players from Hilton were part of this elite squad: Reuben Macfarlane, Keziah Simpson, and brothers Jonathan and Samuel Combrink.

Congratulations to our local Hilton players for being selected to this team. Eagles coach Daniel Rushton was also the defence coach for the Wild Dogs, who represented their country admirably at the tournament.

The Eagles prize-giving held last week saw these and other players awarded for their excellent performances this year, both in talent and in the spirit of sportsmanship.

A municipal field, James Craib Field is maintained and mowed by the homeschool community as well as Hilton Quarry Spar. The field, enjoyed by the Hilton community at large, requires a fresh layer of topsoil, grass and fertilising in the coming months. To contribute to this project, please WhatsApp Eagles head coach Curran Grieshaber on 083 352 1770.

Top image left to right: SA U24 player Reuben Macfarlane, head coach Curran Grieshaber and coach Daniel Rushton.

Below The Ultimate Team.

Popular KwaZulu-Natal radio personality Keri Miller has confirmed she will take part in next year’s aQuellé Midmar Mile from 5-8 February, competing in the family race on the Saturday while also supporting the event as an ambassador for sponsor Mr Price Sport.

The co-founder of digital radio station PlayZN will be swimming her third aQuellé Midmar Mile, alongside a large family contingent which includes her sister, brother-in-law, niece and two nephews. “As a family, last year was our first time swimming Midmar together and we absolutely loved it,” she explained.

An interview with aQuellé Midmar Mile race director Wayne Riddin a few years ago and the promise of a coveted Midmar towel was all it took to nudge Miller (Pictured here with her nephew Brad) into entering the event for the first time in 2024.

“It’s a really great towel,” she joked.

“For the 2025 race, my sister had already entered her whole family and I thought, if [my niece] Charli-Rose can swim it at six, then nothing is stopping me. It felt like one of the best family days we could ever have together. Such a cool memory to make.”

Miller said the event aligns closely with her belief in active living. “Considering I have a radio station called PlayZN, I’m a huge supporter of anything that gets us outside, off our phones and into our bodies. For anyone who’s had the privilege of learning to swim, this is one of the most satisfying things you can do. And everyone loves a medal. It’s such a celebration of how beautiful Midmar is.”

For Miller, serving as an ambassador for Mr Price Sport at next year’s aQuellé Midmar Mile also carries personal significance. “It’s a beautiful reminder that I’m in a strong, healthy body and that at 43 I can move happily and pain-free. Being able to represent a local brand in a local race feels special. I’m grateful and I hope to see more women my age shifting how they think about and treat their beautiful bodies,” she said.

As for preparation in the build-up to the race, apart from yoga and general fitness training, Miller reckoned: “I’ll do some training with Nix O’Driscoll, who is a wonderful coach and will give me all the pointers, and then keep some sea swimming going because we know Midmar is not flat!”

The family element remains central to her Midmar experience, however. “Spending time with Matt, Brad and Charli. Those three are everything to me… I just want to be present, cross that finish line together and get our family photo at the end. I get teary even thinking about it. I’m obsessed with those little humans,” Miller said.

Reflecting on the event’s broader impact, she added: “The sense of accomplishment at the end is huge and it’s so doable. You don’t have to be elite to compete. It’s the perfect race.”

Those keen to experience that sense of accomplishment for themselves can enter the aQuellé Midmar Mile at www.midmarmile.com with early-bird entries closing on 21 December.

December is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, and it's the perfect time to show your skin some love.

Skin cancer is largely preventable with sun-smart habits and early detection – and we’re here to help! We’ve partnered with CANSA to offer ABCDE skin screenings* at participating clinics throughout the month.

R100 per screening

Call your 033 343 0884 to check availability and book in advance!

*𝘈𝘷𝘢𝘪𝘭𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘢𝘵 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘪𝘤𝘪𝘱𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘱𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘮𝘢𝘤𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘰𝘯𝘭𝘺.

Why Burnout Is Still So Prevalent And What You Can Do About It

Over the years, we have become more aware of burnout and its impact on our well-being yet it remains one of the most common challenges people face today. Many individuals feel drained, overwhelmed, or constantly on alert, and often dismiss it as “just stress.”

But burnout is far more than stress.

It is a signal from the mind and body that something needs attention, support, or realignment.

This month, I wrote a new blog exploring why burnout is still so prevalent and how our modern workplaces, environments, and inner expectations all contribute to the growing sense of fatigue many people carry.

If you missed it, you can read it here:
Why is Burnout Still so Prevalent and What Can We Do About It

How Balanced Are You Really?

To help you reflect on your own well-being, boundaries, and work-life alignment, I’ve created a Burnout & Balance Mini-Assessment a simple, practical tool that helps you recognise:
early warning signs of burnout
areas where you may be stretching yourself too thin
how supported you feel in your work environment
the influence leadership and workplace culture may be having on you
where you may need to set clearer boundaries or make small changes

You can download the assessment here:
BALANCE & BURNOUT ASSESSMENT

The assessment includes scoring guidance and reflection prompts to help you interpret your results. It’s short, insightful, and designed to support both individuals and workplaces.

Burnout Is Not a Personal Failure

One of the most important reminders I want to share is this:
Burnout is not a weakness.
Burnout is not an inability to cope.
Burnout is not your fault.

Burnout is a response to prolonged stress, misalignment, hidden pressures, lack of boundaries, or being in environments that don’t support well-being. And awareness is the beginning of change.

Whether you are an employee, a leader, a business owner, or someone trying to find your footing again, reflection is the first step toward clarity.

If your assessment raises concerns… you are not alone.

I offer coaching for individuals as well as workplace wellness sessions for teams and organisations. If you would like to:
explore your assessment results together
learn practical strategies to prevent burnout
improve boundaries and alignment
strengthen confidence and self-belief
support your team or workplace

I would be honoured to assist you.

You can reach me at:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

www.sandranelcoaching.co.za

The uMngeni SPCA does not give away animals, nor do we sell animals – animals are ADOPTED from us.

All animals adopted from the uMngeni SPCA will be sterilised to prevent them from either having (or siring) any unwanted litters; vaccinated; treated for internal parasites and external parasites; and microchipped.

Once you have chosen a potential pet, you will need to enquire at our reception if the animal is available for adoption.

All kennel cards with an “A” next to the animal’s information are either already adopted or have been applied for and therefore are not available for adoption.

You will be required to complete an application to adopt form in person at our office once you have selected an animal that is available for adoption.

With your application, you will be required to bring the following:
• Proof of residence.
• Identity Document, Driver's Licence or Passport.

Please note that you have 1 week (7 days) from the time of your application to submit all requested documentation, failing which the uMngeni SPCA reserves the right to put the animal back up for adoption.

We do not book or reserve animals unless the above is handed in. We work on a first-come, first-served basis.

When adopting a dog, a meet and greet with your family and current dogs is vitally important.

The meet and greet is to ensure that the dog you wish to adopt gets along with your family and current dogs.

An inspector will be sent to your property to conduct an inspection and offer advice on adopting a pet.

We customarily do the home inspection within 24 hours of receiving your completed application; however, in some instances, it may take longer, as our priority is to attend to animal cruelty cases first.

Once your application and home inspection are approved, the animal will be sterilised (puppies and kittens are sent home under a sterilisation contract within the uMngeni municipal area), dewormed, microchipped and vaccinated. You will be contacted to collect your adopted pet the day following the sterilisation.

Important SPCA rules in relation to adoption:
• Animals MUST be observed in person & ID provided
• Pre-home checks must be done before the animal can be adopted
• All animals must be sterilised before going home
• No animal may be rehomed unsterilised outside the area of operation
• Animal remains the property of the SPCA and must be returned if unwanted
• Post-home checks are done annually for all adopted animals

Our current adoption fee is R500 for cats and R800 for dogs.

Congratulations, you have now reached the end of the adoption process. The animal can go home after you have completed the Adoption, rabies vaccination, and/or sterilisation Contract(s) in person at our office. This is normally done when you collect the animal.
Out of Howick and young animal adoption!!!

The adoption process is the same. Your local SPCA does the pre-home and post-home inspections for pets old enough to be sterilised. For adopting animals that are too young to be sterilised before going home (puppies and kittens) in accordance with the SPCA Rules, we cannot rehome them outside our area of operations.

For queries kindly call us on 033 330 4557 or email us on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Start 2026 ahead. Not behind.

Join our Velocity 6-Week Reset Challenge - Train for FREE in December. During these 6 weeks, you will build healthy new habits and learn that accountability meets action! Train without limits & you'll see where this can take you.

Limited spots available.

CONTACT This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. OR WHATSAPP 082-426-7487

Treverton College staff member joins ops team putting together for world first Obstacle Course Race (OCR) hosted in Antarctica.

Worlds Iconic is a South African owned Dubai based Events company that aims to connect adventure seekers with epic destinations and story-worthy activities across the globe.

The latest of these is a world first, that being an Obstacle Course Race (OCR) hosted in Antarctica!

Worlds Iconic put together an operations team to build and facilitate this “exploration“ into new realms for OCR Events. Among this small team is Travis Hesom, a resident of Mooi River, KZN and an employee of Treverton College. He made the 30 hour trip in to the frozen continent through Punto Arenas, Chile. Antarctic Logistics and Expeditions (ALE), who is the logistics partner for the event is the most experienced operator in this area and have over the years supported countless pioneers in their own rights.

The route for this iconic Obstacle Course Race will utilise the snow tracks around Union Glacier Camp in the shadow of Mount Rosso and comprises of 10km in total and 10 obstacles the athletes must negotiate. These include a multi-rig with monkey bars and later on, rings, balance beams, off-set steps, island jumps, cargo net and true to the environment, a sled pull, ice carry and soft snow section.

The event will wait for the best weather window between the 9th and 12th of December and will see athletes line up from the USA, UK and Switzerland.

Treverton College is no stranger to Antarctica. In 2023 Kai Broom the Treverton head boy was one of 12 students chosen for the Matrics in Antarctica expedition.

For further information please visit www.treverton.co.za

Image above: Travis Hesom Treverton College and the Old Trevertonians' Association (OTA), Marketing and Alumni Officer.

Below clockwise from top left: Trevor the Treverton College School mascot travels to Antarctica
One of the obstacles ready to go into place... It will be used twice, first for rings and then as monkey bars
Start and finish photo area being set up with ice carving under way
An overview of the route and the obstacles.

As the world comes together to recognise International Animal Rights Day on the 10th of December, the Animal Anti-Cruelty League (AACL) Durban is urging the public to take meaningful action to protect the welfare and dignity of animals. This global observance serves as a vital reminder that animals are sentient beings deserving of care, respect, and protection.

The holiday season is often a difficult period for companion animals. Many pets are abandoned, left without adequate care while their owners travel, or given as impulsive gifts that later become unwanted burdens. AACL Durban is intensifying its campaign to ensure that individuals think responsibly before buying or gifting a pet.

AACL Durban Chairman, Dr. Lawson Caine, issues a heartfelt appeal:

“I encourage people to really think before giving a pet. Make sure you have the means and time to give that animal the love and care it deserves.”

To support responsible pet guardianship, AACL Durban emphasizes adherence to the internationally recognised Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare, which guide compassionate and humane treatment of all animals:

1. Freedom from hunger and thirst

2. Freedom from discomfort

3. Freedom from pain, injury, and disease

4. Freedom to express normal behaviour

5. Freedom from fear and distress

“When people apply the Five Freedoms to the animals they care for, we ensure that they have a better life, which often makes our own lives better,” adds Dr. Caine.

AACL Durban works tirelessly throughout the year to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome animals in need across the greater Durban area. In recognition of International Animal Rights Day, the organisation is inviting the public to support its efforts through donations that directly fund veterinary care, shelter, and outreach programmes.

How You Can Help
Members of the community can honour this important day by making a financial contribution to AACL Durban. Every donation—no matter the size—helps bring kindness, safety, and hope to thousands of animals.

For more information or to donate, please contact the Animal Anti-Cruelty League™ Durban:

Contact Bronwyn Ablett on 0828563923 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Website: https://www.aacl.co.za/branches-durban-pietermaritzburg/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AACLDurban

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aacl_dbn/

About AACL Durban
The Animal Anti-Cruelty League™ Durban is one of South Africa’s longest-standing and most trusted animal welfare organisations. Through rescue services, veterinary support, education programmes, and community outreach, AACL Durban is committed to building a more humane and compassionate world for animals.

Image above by Val Adamson: Nomathembu Gumede, animal handler and volunteer Rachel Rabie at the Durban and Pietermaritzburg branch of the Animal Anti-Cruelty League (AACL).