![](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/20/2016/09/IMG_0327_19668.jpg)
Looking for a furry companion to share life’s ups and downs with? Look no further as Community Led Animal Welfare (Claw) in Durban Deep has the answer.
The staff at Claw is very involved with rescuing abused, abandoned and unwanted dogs, but they cannot care for all of them. That is one of the main reasons why Claw encourages people looking for a new pet (dog or cat) to consider adopting, rather than shopping.
![Lumka Golintete (Claw volunteer) with Red who is up for adoption. Photos: Adéle Bloem](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/20/2016/09/IMG_0323_11669-520x390.jpg)
Adopting a furry friend is a feel-good decision that involves the heart more than the mind. To help people understand that the decision to adopt extends far beyond the good deed of going to a shelter, filling in forms, paying the adoption fee and bringing your new fur baby home, Claw has an adoption programme called STAR, which denotes the following:
Sensible – The decision to adopt should be well thought through and not just an emotional one
Teaching – The adopter is compassionate, calm and consistent. He/ she embraces the lifelong learning and growth of the new pet
Accepting – The adopter acknowledges the fact that the new pet needs a fair chance to adjust to its new surroundings
Responsible – The adopter will take responsibility for the new pet’s care, safety and well-being
This programme encourages, empowers and motivates adopters to embrace the exciting challenges of owning a new pet and to know where to start building a relationship with it.
![Lumka Golintete (Claw volunteer) with Benny who is also looking for his forever home.](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/20/2016/09/IMG_0326_12420-520x390.jpg)
Some dogs have been at Claw for quite a while and would love to go to their own forever home. Lumka Golintete, a volunteer at Claw posed with Red, Benny and Chelsea, but they are not the only dogs yearning for a good family – there are many more.
If you would like to adopt a furry friend, wish to assist in any way or need more information, contact Cora Bailey on 076 850 4466.
Writer and photographer Roger Caras said, “Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole”.
Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at roodepoortrecord@caxton.co.za (remember to include your contact details) or phone us on 011 955 1130.
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