The KZN Doghouse, a registered no-kill animal shelter in Queensburgh, is facing the heartbreaking threat of permanent closure despite its vital role in rescuing and rehabilitating hundreds of abused and neglected dogs across KwaZulu-Natal.
Since its founding in 2021, the shelter has taken in more than 800 dogs and currently houses 46, many of whom have endured abandonment, injury, or cruelty. The shelter operates solely on public donations, personal contributions, and fundraising efforts, without any formal funding or institutional support.
Founder and director Sauri Moodley has raised urgent concerns about the shelter’s future and the devastating impact closure would have.
“We uplift dogs who are abused, neglected, stray, abandoned, or injured; provide medical care, sterilisation, and vaccinations; rehabilitate and socialise them professionally; and work tirelessly to find loving forever homes. We are not funded or cushioned. Our mission is to responsibly and professionally rescue, rehabilitate, and re-home dogs—at any cost,” she said.
Beyond rehoming efforts, The KZN Doghouse collaborates with SAPS, schools, children’s homes, old age homes, and local rescue groups. It also supports families affected by poverty and disaster with food, veterinary assistance, and outreach. Despite this, the organisation is now under investigation following complaints about noise and alleged by-law infringements—claims Moodley insists are baseless.
“We have been audited by multiple regulatory entities in KZN and have confirmation of our compliance. The property is correctly zoned, and the complaints are without evidence,” she said.
The prospect of closure has raised alarm among animal lovers and rescue networks.
“The SPCA is over capacity. Other rescue groups rely on us. If we close, many innocent lives hang in the balance and will be euthanised—not because they’re sick or dangerous, but because there is nowhere else for them.”
Monthly costs to feed the dogs exceed R20 000, not including mounting veterinary and outreach expenses. Moodley has issued a heartfelt call to the community: “Share our story. Sign our petition. Visit us. Write letters of support. Speak up and make a noise. This is how we show the community values our work.”
She emphasised that The KZN Doghouse is committed to environmental compliance and animal welfare.
“We have the expertise, qualifications, and experience to operate this organisation properly. We are not the problem. We are part of the solution.”
The shelter encourages adoption through a straightforward process that includes a home inspection, application, introduction, and follow-up. Adoption costs cover only sterilisation and vaccinations, offered at welfare rates through a local vet. Volunteers are welcome to assist with feeding, bathing, and socialising the dogs. Donations of dog food, medication, toys, and support towards medical expenses are urgently needed, and all contributions qualify for a Section 18A tax certificate.
“We’re standing for the animals. Please stand with us,” said Moodley.
In an uplifting show of community solidarity, the Railway Barracks Shree Emperumal Temple has stepped forward to support The KZN Doghouse through their Winter Dog Drive. Launched in conjunction with the temple’s monthly Bhairava Ashtami prayers, the drive seeks to collect dog food, bowls, blankets, and other pet essentials for the shelter.
In the worship of Lord Bhairava, the dog is not merely an animal but is revered as a divine vehicle (vahana) and loyal guardian. Sacred texts teach that feeding and caring for dogs is an act of great merit, inviting divine protection, dispelling negativity, and earning the blessings of Lord Bhairava. By participating in this dog drive, devotees perform ‘seva’ (selfless service), deepen their ‘bhakti’ (devotion), and contribute to the well-being of animals that embody the spirit of divine guardianship.
Donations can be dropped off at the temple based at 9-10 Woodcrest Avenue, Croftdene from Wednesday, 18 June to Friday, 18 July.
The KZN Doghouse is located at 80 Carrick Road, Queensburgh, and to get involved or donate, contact them on WhatsApp at 071 929 6457 or follow @thekzndoghouse on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. For more information on the Winter Dog Drive contact coordinator Dr Dharshan Moodley at 071 895 2029.
