Business Report

City of gold shines as over 100 Golden retrievers gather for a cause

ANIMAL RESCUE

Ashley Lechman|Published

As the sun set over the Vitozol Dog Park, the sight of nearly 150 golden coats gleaming in the light was a reminder that sometimes, joy really does come with a wagging tail and a generous heart.

Image: Supplied.

Johannesburg was glowing with golden charm last weekend as 149 Golden retrievers and their owners came together for the inaugural Gauteng Golden Retriever Gathering, hosted by the Gauteng Golden Retrievers at the Vitozol dog park.

The heartwarming event raised funds for Golden Retriever Rescue South Africa (GR Rescue SA) and celebrated the joy, loyalty, and spirit of this beloved breed.

The event was put together by four golden retriever enthusiasts based in Gauteng with ticket sale proceeds going to GR rescue SA. 

One of the organisers, Sandra Pavic, said: "It was a day of wagging tails, muddy paws, and unforgettable memories, all in support of Golden Retriever Rescue South Africa (GR Rescue SA). The owner of Vitozol Dog Park went above and beyond in supporting us, providing a safe and fun space with a doggie pool, agility course, maze, and fenced-in areas perfect for safe, off-leash play."

Liezel Mortimer, head of GR Rescue said: "As Golden Retriever Rescue we would like to thank the organisers of the Gauteng Golden Retriever Gathering held for our benefit. They did a fantastic job in getting vendors and sponsors for the day to honour the best breed in the world."

"To everyone who came and supported the day with their beautiful dogs, thank you for making it such a success and as such helping a Golden retriever in need. As a volunteer based organisation we completely rely on support from the public to be able to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome this amazing breed.  We truly appreciate everyone who supports our efforts. If you would like to learn more about our cause do join us on Facebook or visit our website: www.goldenrescue.co.za."

Capri, who goes by @goldenfluffduo_ on Instagram had the time of her life at the event.
Instagram and TikTok star Channa the golden loved interacting with all the dogs on the day.
Kingsley from popular ethical breeder, Mochavulin Golden Retrievers was also in attendance.
CHANNA the Golden with her bestie, Shiina who is a therapy dog, Instagram and TikTok star as well. @goldengirl.shiina. Supplied.
Golden Retrievers having fun at the park.

Pavic added that they welcomed 13 local vendors and several wonderful sponsors, without whom this event would not have been possible.

"Our VIP and party packs were filled with items from: Petshop Science, Dear Pet Co, Canine Craze, Doggylish, Pannatural Pets, Vets2Pets, Paws of the Galaxy, Health & Wellness PawPals, and Barkdaybash. We also had competition prizes sponsored by Doggylish, Bitches Get Stitches, and Zugo Pets," Pavic added. 

She further said: "Our raffle, worth over R3 000, was generously sponsored by our previously mentioned sponsors together with ExecuPaws, K9 Drive, and FurryKidzFerry.  The event’s show-stopping "Golden retriever" cake was provided by Hunter & Co, and stunning professional portraits were taken by Cat Schramm, who kindly donated a portion of her profits to GR Rescue SA."

Pavic told IOL that Gauteng Golden Retrievers initially aimed to raise R15 000, never imagining that VIP tickets would sell out in a day. 

"The event was open to all golden retriever lovers, and the feedback was overwhelmingly positive. This is only the beginning. We were truly inspired by global golden meet-ups in Australia and the US with record-holding numbers, therefore, we hope to grow from year to year, safely and joyfully, because our Goldens aren’t just pets, they’re our family. If you would like to make your contribution or wish to give a forever home one of the goldens in need - you can reach out to goldenrescue.co.za," Pavic further added.

LIFESTYLE