Cape Town - For over a decade, Gayl Basson has dedicated her life to rescuing abandoned animals.
As co-founder of Fallen Angels Pet Rescue, Basson and her team have cared for countless dogs, cats and farm animals in need, rescued from the Cape Flats and across the metro.
However, recent challenges, particularly a forced relocation and local government regulations, threaten her ability to continue the vital work.
The rescue centre, operating within a 5km radius of the Koeberg Nuclear Power Station’s emergency zone, was first hit with the harsh reality of forced closure two years ago.
This, as the City of Cape Town instructed Basson to apply for a Special Consent Use Permit to continue operating the shelter.
She hoped the approval would be a mere formality, but the application was rejected this month.
The City’s main concern was the shelter’s proximity to the power station.
A devastated Basson said: “The effort, time, and resources we invested felt like a waste.”
The rescue centre was given just three months to relocate with their 350 animals.
Basson said she decided that Langebaan would be the best option because her family owns land there, but the financial and logistical hurdles of moving and transporting animals, and building a new facility are daunting.
The City informed Basson that they could not assist with relocation unless she formally appealed the decision.
“This is what we did, but mainly to buy us more time.
“I understand the implications of being so close to the power station, so I know relocating is the best option, but time, that is what we need.”
Amid the struggles, the rescue centre has been forced to stop accepting new animals, which Basson called a “very worrying” decision.
“Festive we see lots of animals roaming around, especially those given to people as gifts, this is a very big concern for me.
“The uncertainty about the shelter’s future means no new rescues can be taken in.
“And the most worrying part is if push comes to shove and we cannot cater to relocate all 350 animals, they would have to face the ultimate death sentence … euthanasia.”
To raise funds for relocation, Basson and her team are hosting a Sunday Market, where visitors can meet the animals, make donations, and learn about the centre’s work.
“Every bit helps. We need every bit of help, whether it’s petrol allowance, relocation costs, foster homes for adoption, even transportation of animals, we are just appealing for support,” Basson said.
The Network for Animals, who currently campaigns in 24 countries on five continents, providing financial and logistical support to animal shelters and organisations, is also raising funds on behalf of Fallen Angels Pet Rescue.
The City said Basson was issued with a notice to submit the relevant applications to regularise the centre, because the property falls within a 5km radius of the Koeberg Nuclear Plant’s emergency zone.
“The land use application process has not been concluded as yet, given that the applicant has lodged an appeal. Whether to relocate or not depends on the appeal decision.”
tracy-lynn.ruiters@inl.co.za
Cape Argus