One of the most meaningful changes you can make in 2026 is to choose kindness towards animals. FOUR PAWS shares a few simple (and easily adoptable) habits guaranteed to make a huge impact for the voiceless!
South Africa (05 January 2026) – Kindness wherever we go, friends. That’s the mantra for 2026. And if it can’t be extended towards people (because let’s be honest, sometimes they deserve a klap), then share it with animals.
“Making animal welfare a focal point of our resolutions is a powerful way to create positive change for animals, whether through daily acts of kindness or broader lifestyle adjustments. Small, committed actions truly matter and with a collective effort, we can build a future where animals are treated with the respect and compassion they deserve.” shares Fiona Miles, Director of FOUR PAWS South Africa.
That doesn’t mean adopting a pet when you can’t afford to raise it or volunteering imaginary time that you don’t have (if you do – do it! Working with animal welfare organisations will certainly earn you that hero badge).
It’s about simple, sustainable choices that have positive ripple effects. FOUR PAWS has shared a few practical tips to help us all get started.
Eat Kinder (No, You Don’t Need to Ditch Meat for Good)
No one’s telling you to become vegan or vegetarian. Small changes, like reducing animal products in your diet, are enough. Do a meat-free Monday every week, or try a plant-based braai with local favourites like grilled mielies and chakalaka. Every swap you make helps reduce animal suffering and environmental impact.
Support Ethical Brands
Choose cruelty-free and animal-friendly products. Your purchasing power can shape a kinder marketplace. In South Africa, the most reliable cruelty-free symbols to look for are the Leaping Bunny logo (Cruelty Free International) and the Beauty Without Cruelty (BWC) SA logo.
Advocate for Animals
If you’re committed to doing a little bit more, download FOUR PAWS’ Animal Welfare Advocacy Guide to learn how to engage with local government, sign petitions, and host awareness events in your community. Spreading awareness and standing for change is a wonderful way to make an impact.
Educate and Inspire
Share knowledge about animal welfare issues with friends, schools and social groups. Change starts with conversation. If you don’t know where to start, pay a visit to your local SPCA or animal shelter. You’ll learn a lot, the experience will stick with you, and you can pass it all on.
Be a Responsible Pet Owner
Cover the basics. Make sure that your pets are sterilised, up to date with vaccinations and microchipped. Keep them safe during firework season and provide them with enough enrichment and companionship.
Related Story
“By committing to these resolutions, we can start the year with intention and purpose, knowing we are making a meaningful impact. Kindness is a choice we make every day, let’s make it a movement.” shares Fiona.
South Africa faces urgent animal welfare challenges, from wildlife exploitation to factory farming and stray animal suffering. By embracing these simple and compassionate choices, we can all play our part in helping protect animals.
Sources: Supplied
Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google.
Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes and hear their incredible stories:
Or catch an episode of Good Things with Brent Lindeque or our Weekly Top 5 below. The videos here are always changing, updated with the latest episodes from these two shows. Both are part of Good Things TV, created to bring South Africans balance at a time when the news can feel overwhelmingly negative. Our goal is simple: to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in our country – and to leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.
by 