Lonehill resident helps create a fun new space for dogs at SPCA

RANDBURG – The efforts of many have paid off thanks to a volunteer's perseverance.

March 11, 2020

Khomotso Makgabutlane 1 minute read

Lauren Seidel, who volunteers four times a week at the SPCA, plays with a dog in the compatibility area. Photo: Khomotso Makgabutlane

A plan to bring joy to the dogs at Randburg SPCA became a reality thanks to the help of a Lonehill resident.

Lauren Seidel, who has volunteered at the SPCA for almost two years, had a goal to start a project this year to renovate a compatibility area for the dogs in the shelter to run around and get to know the other dogs in the kennels. The compatibility area now has a sandpit, a water area, a shaded and resting area, and a big space free enough for dogs to play and run around.

Lauren Seidel shows the end result of her project at the SPCA. *Photo: Khomotso Makgabutlane*

Seidel, who volunteers four days a week, said she ‘wanted to do something, not for myself but for the dogs’. “I just want to use this opportunity to say thank you to all those who had a hand in contributing to the compatibility area,” said Seidel.

The landscaping of the area took almost two weeks thanks to the assistance of many different people and donations from various companies.

The area had long grass and brick piles before the renovations began. *Photo: Lauren Seidel*

“It’s always amazing to see what people will do to help when you ask for it, especially when it comes to animals. I am just so grateful to everyone who has had a part in helping the dogs at the SPCA.”

The list of people and companies who have helped in the development of this project included Nicolas Plants, Graeme Nothard of Square Root Gardens, Lazarus Magombo of Pleasant Gardens and Projects, Chantal de Koker of Kwikbuild Cement, and fellow volunteers of the Randburg SPCA, Petra Pospisek and Tammy Gregor.

Before the revamping of the compatibility took place, this was the area in need of a new look. *Photo: Lauren Seidel*

SPCA members chipped in with either bringing in materials or helping with the maintenance of the compatibility area. “Everyone has seriously gone the extra mile with their efforts. And you don’t want to just take from people, you want to give back.”

Landscaping the compatibility area is not the only goal Seidel has for the shelter and she wants to continue to grow and improve it. “It’s not even about the money. When you do something you love, it’s priceless.

The end result after two weeks of dedication to the enrichment project. *Photo: Khomotso Makgabutlane*

“We want to improve on what we have should the necessary funds become available as it was a lot of hard work. But as long as the dogs have a luxury like this, that’s all that matters.”

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