A fire at TEARS Animal Rescue on Lekkerwater Road in Sunnydale, near Kommetjie, caused significant damage to several Wendy houses, wooden fencing, and parts of the kennels. Thanks to swift action from emergency services and the dedication of staff and volunteers, every animal and human on site was kept safe.
The blaze is believed to have started on an adjoining property where shipping containers and cars were parked overnight. TEARS Operations Manager, Mandy Store, was alerted to the fire at around 5am and immediately called emergency services.
Store praised the rapid response, saying:
“We are so grateful for the bravery of the Fire Brigade, City of Cape Town Fire and Traffic Services, tow truck operators, and CMR who arrived so quickly. Their quick action prevented further damage — without them, this could have been much worse.”
Staff and Dogs Fight for Safety
As flames spread, local staff and volunteers raced from their homes in the dark, not for themselves, but for the dogs in their care. Some of the dogs closest to the fire instinctively began scratching and digging at their gates, desperate to reach safety. It was a powerful reminder of the resilience and will to survive in animals who have already faced hardship.
“Seeing how the dogs fought to save themselves was one of the most moving moments,” Store reflected. “They didn’t know that help was already racing toward them — but their fight for life reminded us exactly why we do this work.”
Rebuilding with Hope
While the fire caused significant damage, TEARS is determined to rebuild stronger. The organisation plans to replace the destroyed wooden fencing with vibracrete walling, a safer and more fire-resistant solution. They are also in urgent need of dog kennels, dog beds, and financial support to repair the damage and restore the sanctuary the animals deserve.
Store added:
“We want to rebuild in a way that protects our animals better in the future. Every donation, big or small, makes a difference — because TEARS operates purely on donations, and it is only with community support that we can continue to help animals in need.”
Call to Action
TEARS extended heartfelt thanks to all who assisted with the fire response and those already contributing to the clean-up and recovery efforts.
Together, the community can give these dogs back their safe haven.
Donate: https://tears.org.za/donate/
