Ama has rescued many animals over the years and currently has in the region of 30 cats, 3 dogs, and 3 chickens. They all have their own stories; from being a kitten dropped by its mother in the middle of the road, to a chicken that had been attacked by street dogs, to a dog left dying on the side of the road with its eyes put out. Some have survived and some haven’t, but Ama’s aim is to give as many animals the love and care they deserve, for as long as they are alive. Some strays have found their way to Ama’s house, others have been brought by local people, and the rest have been removed from danger by Ama when she sees an animal in distress that is not owned.

Many of the feral cats in Botswana have FIV; this is similar to the human Aids virus. It shortens their life span and leaves them with a compromised immune system. When the animals become chronically sick to the extent that they are in pain or suffering, they are quietly put to sleep, but in the interim, they have love, good food, comfy beds, and a smorgasbord of nooks and crannies in which to play and relax. The dogs and cats live harmoniously and are all incredible little survivors with bundles of character. Every animal is spayed/neutered, and vaccinated.

Ama receives some kind donations from time to time and is well used to begging in supermarkets for discounts on pet food! Kind thanks to Nicola of Southern Star catering for the free chicken leftovers, ‘Granny’, for often taking dogs/cat found abandoned or hurt on the roads, keeping them safely in her kennel & cattery until their owners come or re-homing them,and for sharing Ama’s love of animals (like mother like daughter!). Big thanks also to The BSPCA (particularly Alan, who works tirelessly) for always coming to rescue animals and continuing to do their best to re-home and provide shelter for animals in need, Ruretse Dogs, for their amazing dog sanctuary and immediate response to animals in distress, Dr Busang and the other vets in Gaborone who give Ama discounts and are always donating their time and care to feral animals, and to the many managers from local supermarkets that knock down their prices for Ama’s menagerie. Apologies to Ama’s friends who have to sit, red-faced in restaurants whilst she asks for any spare bones or meat! There is no pride when an animal is in need!