Compassion in Action

Women transforming animal welfare through policy, care and community impact.

Cape Town, 12 August 2026 – As South Africa celebrates Women’s Month, FOUR PAWS is recognising the critical role women play in tackling the country’s animal welfare challenges through both policy-driven advocacy and hands-on care that delivers lasting impact for animals and communities.

In a country where billions of animals live without adequate care or protection, sustainable solutions require more than compassion alone; It requires systemic change, evidence-based interventions and strong leadership. At the forefront of this work is an exceptional team of women working at FOUR PAWS South Africa, who continue to champion the comprehensive integration of animal welfare into South Africa’s legislative framework.

“Animal welfare cannot be treated as a secondary issue. It is fundamentally linked to public health, community safety and environmental sustainability,” says Miles. “We need policy frameworks that prioritise humane, science-based solutions such as reduced stocking densities, sterilisation, vaccination and responsible ownership. These are not optional; they are essential components of a more humane and sustainable future.”

Miles, together with the FOUR PAWS team, have been a leading voice calling for stronger legislation, improved enforcement and the inclusion of animal welfare within the One Health framework, ensuring that the wellbeing of animals, people and the environment are addressed together.

“Meaningful progress requires both political will and community partnership,” she adds. “Women are uniquely positioned at this intersection driving change on the ground while also shaping the systems that sustain it.” This dual approach, policy advocacy combined with practical implementation is reflected across FOUR PAWS’ work in South Africa. Their contribution to animal welfare is both inspiring and invaluable.

At LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary in the Free State, this commitment takes the form of lifelong, ethical care for rescued wildlife. Supported by a remarkable team managed by Hildegard Pirker, the sanctuary provides a safe haven for around 80 big cats rescued from exploitation, including circuses, zoos and private ownership.

Pirker’s leadership ensures that LIONSROCK operates according to strict animal welfare standards, giving animals the space, enrichment and dignity they were previously denied. “Sanctuary work is about more than rescue it is about rehabilitation,” says Pirker. “Each animal has a history of exploitation, and our responsibility is to provide an environment where they can recover physically and mentally, at their own pace and retain the newly found wellbeing for the rest of their lives.”

Also supporting this work is Dr Christine Steyrer, the sanctuary’s on-site veterinarian, whose role is central to addressing the complex medical needs of rescued big cats. “Many of the animals we receive show the long-term consequences of neglect, trauma and inadequate care,” says Dr Steyrer. “Our approach is rooted in both veterinary science and compassion ensuring each animal receives individualised treatment that supports their overall wellbeing.”

Together, Pirker, Dr. Steyrer and the rest of the LIONSROCK team embody the care pillar of animal welfare, where expertise and empathy converge to deliver tangible outcomes for animals who cannot be returned to the wild. Throughout Women’s Month, FOUR PAWS continues to recognise the countless women in communities across country who champion responsible animal care, educate others, support welfare initiatives and advocate for animals who cannot speak for themselves.

“In a country where billions of animals still live without adequate care or protection, women are leading the change by empowering communities, protecting animals and helping build a more compassionate South Africa,” concludes Miles.

This Women’s Month, FOUR PAWS South Africa celebrates all the women within the organisation and beyond whose passion, resilience and leadership are helping create a world where animals are treated with respect, empathy and understanding.

For more information, please visit our website at www.four-paws.org.za

Author: Deidre Daniels.