The ELM Project

The ELM Project We are dedicated to sterilising dogs and cats in the Tsitsikamma. Our goal is to control pet populations, reduce animal suffering and provide basic health care.

We establish relationships with local people through outreach days

05/06/2026

It's Time

Recent media headlines involving dogs being removed from a rescue have once again highlighted exactly why the Shelter Minimum Standards Project is so important.

These situations are often emotional, complex, and difficult for everyone involved. They also remind us that animal rescue organisations operate within a range of legal requirements, not just municipal by-laws. Understanding these responsibilities is essential for any rescue that wants to provide the best possible care for animals while remaining compliant and accountable.

Without a recognised set of minimum standards for animal shelters, the lines can sometimes become blurred for rescuers, authorities, donors, and the public alike.

What does good practice look like? What is legally required? What should accountability look like? These are important questions that deserve clear, fair, and practical answers.

That is why we are so encouraged that more than 200 people from the animal welfare sector have contributed their knowledge, experience, and insights to developing South Africa's first collaborative Shelter Minimum Standards.

These standards are being created by shelters, for shelters, together. They are designed to be realistic, achievable, legally informed, and reflective of the unique realities faced by rescues across our country.

The standards will be released for public comment in the coming weeks.
BarkingMad SA ONE Revolution Foundation

🐾 DOG FACT! 🐾Did you know that dogs don’t sweat like humans do?Dogs only sweat through their paw pads and rely mainly on...
02/06/2026

🐾 DOG FACT! 🐾

Did you know that dogs don’t sweat like humans do?

Dogs only sweat through their paw pads and rely mainly on panting to cool themselves down. Their sweat is much oilier than ours and contains special chemical signals that other dogs can detect.

And here’s a fun fact: the bacteria that naturally live on a dog’s paws can create that familiar “cheesy crisp” or “corn chip” smell that many dog owners notice! 🧀🐾

As temperatures rise, remember to: 💧 Provide plenty of fresh water
🌳 Ensure access to shade
🚶 Avoid hot pavements that can burn paw pads
🐕 Watch for signs of overheating, such as excessive panting or lethargy

Every day is an opportunity to learn something new about our four-legged friends! ❤️

🐾❤️

02/06/2026

🐾 Meet Nonjani 💛

When we first rescued her, she was completely broken. She hadn’t eaten in days and weighed just 6.9kg.

For the first few days, I wasn’t allowed anywhere near her. She spent her days sleeping and drinking water, too exhausted and scared to do much else.

But slowly, things started to change. She began eating. She started trusting me enough to accept a gentle scratch. She still doesn’t move around much, but now she gets up to greet me when I come home. 🐶✨

We’ve been able to start treating her wounds. We’re not yet at the point where she’ll let us shave around them, but that’s okay. Recovery takes time, and we’ll get there together.

Every small step is a victory. Every bit of trust is a gift.

We’re so proud of you, Nonjani. 💛🐾

ELMProject NeverGiveUp

02/06/2026

🐾 Outreach is a very important part of what we do at ELM 💛

While sterilisation remains one of our main focuses, outreach means so much more than just locating and keeping track of animals needing sterilisations.

It allows us to build relationships with the people and children in the communities we work in. It helps us keep an eye on dogs in need, identify potential harm, and step in where we can.

Most importantly, it gives us the opportunity to educate as we go — teaching responsible pet ownership, compassion, and the importance of animal care 🐶🐱✨

Real change starts within communities, and we are proud to be part of that journey 💛

01/06/2026

🐶💤 Some puppies just take napping very seriously 😂💛

No matter who wakes him up, what is happening around him, or how much noise there is… this little one just falls right back asleep 😴🐾

Too sweet, too sleepy, and definitely not interested in today’s agenda ✨

Every dog that comes through our gates has a story. Some are painful. Some heartbreaking. But every single one deserves ...
28/05/2026

Every dog that comes through our gates has a story. Some are painful. Some heartbreaking. But every single one deserves a chance. ❤️

From a dog whose toe was crushed by a horse, to severe mange cases, biliary treatment, ear infections, nasal infections, parvo treatment, dogs injured by wire, and hit-and-run victims — we do our best to help them heal, recover, and feel safe again.

Rescue is not always easy. It means late nights, emergency call outs, difficult cases, and long recoveries. But seeing a scared, hurting dog slowly wag its tail again makes it worth it every time.

We are passionate about helping dogs in need, no matter their condition or where they come from. Every life matters, and every dog deserves love, care, and a second chance. 🐾

A special thank you to Cape Cross Veterinary Hospital for always being available to help and support us through these difficult cases. Your care and dedication truly make a difference.

Thank you to everyone who supports, donates, shares our posts, and stands behind our mission. You help us continue giving these animals hope. ❤️

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Tsitsikamma
Tsitsikamma

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