First for Women and Woodrock Animal Rescue are demonstrating how long-term corporate partnerships can transform animal welfare through sustained support, adoption and sterilisation initiatives.
At a special media event hosted at the Woodrock Cat Café in Kyalami, journalists experienced the therapeutic connection between people and rescue animals through yoga sessions with dogs and interactions with rescued cats, highlighting the positive impact animals have on mental wellbeing.
The event showcased First for Women’s ongoing partnership with Woodrock Animal Rescue, which extends beyond traditional sponsorship by providing monthly financial support, infrastructure upgrades and programmes focused on increasing animal adoptions and sterilisation.
According to Executive Head of First for Women Insurance, Seugnette van Wyngaard, the partnership reflects the insurer’s commitment to supporting vulnerable animals while strengthening communities.
“Our relationship with Woodrock isn’t simply a sponsorship but an ongoing commitment. Our monthly donations have supported the sterilisation of over 1 500 animals, contributing to an overall impact of saving hundreds of thousands of animals,” she said.
Van Wyngaard added that First for Women has also invested in transforming the Woodrock Cat Café into a welcoming environment where people and rescue animals can connect naturally, encouraging successful adoptions.
Woodrock Animal Rescue’s Jacqui Martheze said the consistent financial support has brought much-needed stability to the organisation’s operations.
“Since we are self-funded and have a sustainable income from First for Women, the commitment to sterilise a specific number of animals monthly has provided financial relief and stability. This assistance from First for Women alleviates pressure and supports the animals who depend on us,” she said.
The collaboration also highlights the emotional and psychological benefits of pet ownership and animal companionship, demonstrating how adoption can improve the wellbeing of both animals and their new owners.
First for Women’s pet insurance offering has been designed to support pet owners beyond financial protection by including services such as a dedicated Pet Taxi for veterinary appointments, a 24-hour emergency veterinary advice line and post-surgery recovery support.
Van Wyngaard said every pet insurance policy contributes towards Woodrock’s sterilisation programme, helping address South Africa’s stray animal population through humane, long-term solutions.
The partnership demonstrates how sustained corporate investment can create lasting social impact by improving animal welfare, supporting rescue organisations and strengthening the bond between people and their pets.
