Rescue Archives - Good Things Guy https://www.goodthingsguy.com/tag/rescue/ Wed, 01 Apr 2026 04:39:49 +0000 en-ZA hourly 1 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/cropped-gtg_favicon-32x32.png Rescue Archives - Good Things Guy https://www.goodthingsguy.com/tag/rescue/ 32 32 Watch Rescue Teams Step In as Injured Hiker Airlifted from Lion’s Head https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/team-saves-hiker-airlifted/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/team-saves-hiker-airlifted/#respond Wed, 01 Apr 2026 06:30:40 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=182420

A visiting hiker from Durban was safely airlifted off Lion’s Head after an ankle injury, as rescue teams once again showed their readiness to respond to those in danger.  ...

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A visiting hiker from Durban was safely airlifted off Lion’s Head after an ankle injury, as rescue teams once again showed their readiness to respond to those in danger.

 

Cape Town, South Africa (01 April 2026) – A Sunday hike on Lion’s Head took an unexpected turn when a visiting hiker from Durban needed to be rescued after injuring his ankle on the trail. What started as a routine outdoor adventure quickly became a situation requiring urgent assistance.

The 47-year-old slipped near the top ladder section while making his way down. Although he tried to continue, the injury made it impossible to go any further, prompting a call for help as conditions on that section can be tricky to navigate.

That’s when teams from Wilderness Search and Rescue stepped in, quickly responding with support from the Air Mercy Service rescue helicopter. Their rapid response ensured that the situation was brought under control as quickly and safely as possible.

In a smooth and well-coordinated operation, the hiker was safely hoisted off the mountain and flown to a nearby landing zone for further care.

Set against the backdrop of Table Mountain, the rescue once again highlighted the dedication of these teams, who are always ready to respond, often at a moment’s notice, to assist those in need, no matter the terrain or conditions.

Made up of a network of professionals and volunteers, the rescue teams continue to go above and beyond to ensure that hikers and outdoor enthusiasts can explore with a little more peace of mind, knowing help is never too far away.

A gentle reminder for hikers to take care on the trails and to always have emergency numbers saved, just in case.


Sources: Wilderness Search and Rescue WSAR Western Cape 
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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. 

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Sable Chased a Dassie Up a Cliff and Got Stuck – Droëwors-Wielding Heroes Helped Him Down https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/sable-dassie-chase-rescue/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/sable-dassie-chase-rescue/#respond Tue, 24 Mar 2026 08:30:19 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=181538

Sable, a young German Shorthaired Pointer, was on a late-afternoon adventure at his local quarry on Sunday, when he first saw it. A dassie. All instincts said ‘chase!’   Cape...

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Sable, a young German Shorthaired Pointer, was on a late-afternoon adventure at his local quarry on Sunday, when he first saw it. A dassie. All instincts said ‘chase!’

 

Cape Town, South Africa (24 March 2026) – And chase he did, all the way up 20 metres of cliff-side. There he realised that dassies are flipping fast, and that getting up was the easy part. Getting back down, on the other hand, was a different story altogether.

“A late-afternoon adventure at Hillcrest Estate quarry turned into an unexpected rescue mission on Saturday evening after a young German Shorthaired Pointer, Sable, took his enthusiasm for dassie-chasing a little too far.” shares the Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR). “The adventurous two-and-a-half-year-old had managed to scramble roughly 20 metres up an 80-metre cliff face, only to discover that climbing up is often easier than coming down. “ the WSAR shared.

That’s when his owner, who had been out searching for him, spotted him.

“His owner went searching and eventually found him perched on a small ledge, looking decidedly stuck and clearly feeling a bit sorry for himself.”

When Sable’s owner realised he wasn’t able to bring his dog back down from the cliff safely, he called on the city’s responders, hoping they could help.

They showed up in full force. City of Cape Town Fire and Rescue Service were joined by the WSAR’s technical teams and operators from the K9 Search and Rescue Association of South Africa.

Photo Credit: David Nel

“Rescuers established a technical rope system and carefully lowered a K9 Search and Rescue Association of South Africa operator to the stranded pup, followed closely by a Fire and Rescue specialist.”

Reaching Sable was easy. Winning his trust was a different story. That was, until somebody broke out the droëwors…

“After a short round of diplomatic negotiations, involving the strategic deployment of some premium WOOLWORTHS droëwors, the young adventurer was convinced that the rescuers were indeed there to help.”

Won over with snacks, Sable was safely secured in a harness and tethered to his rescuer who was gently lowered down the cliff.

Photo Credit: Nicole Fourie

Just after midnight, Sable was back with his family.

“We’re happy to share that after his adventure, Sable is now well-rested, spending plenty of quality time with his family, and enjoying long hours on his favourite couch. His mom and dad report that he has not been back to the quarry, favouring fetch over dassie-chasing.” the WSAR concluded. 

Once the WSAR had shared the story of the rescue online, Sable’s parents, Nicole and Marais, expressed gratitude for our local heroes who value every life – two feet or four paws – just the same.

Photo Credit: Marais Schutte

“Thank you so much to the incredible team at Wilderness Search and Rescue, City of Cape Town Fire and Rescue, and everyone involved in bringing Sable safely home” they wrote. “We are beyond grateful for the time, effort, and care that went into this rescue. What started as a very scary situation for us ended in the happiest reunion, all thanks to your professionalism, teamwork, and kindness. You all did such an amazing job that we were honestly starting to think Sable might just go home with you instead of us! The way he trusted you and cooperated says everything about how well you handled the situation.”

One thing that always makes us so proud, is the care and compassion that South Africans share for animals!

“Sable means the world to our family, and we will never forget what you did for him (and for us). The patience, skill, and even the droëwors diplomacy will always make this story unforgettable.
From the bottom of our hearts — thank you for keeping our boy safe and getting him back home where he belongs.” shared Sable’s mom and dad.

If you’d like to show your support to the WSAR – a network of government agencies, and civilian volunteer organisations who partner in search and rescue – follow this link.


Sources: Linked above.
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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. 

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Late-Night Rescue Saves Two Puppies Trapped Underground in Phoenix https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/late-night-rescue-saves-puppies/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/late-night-rescue-saves-puppies/#respond Tue, 17 Mar 2026 12:00:06 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=180745

A quick-thinking resident raised the alarm, sparking a late-night rescue that saw teams work for hours to free two terrified puppies trapped deep inside a pipe.   Phoenix, South Africa...

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A quick-thinking resident raised the alarm, sparking a late-night rescue that saw teams work for hours to free two terrified puppies trapped deep inside a pipe.

 

Phoenix, South Africa (17 March 2026) – Sometimes, it takes a community and a bit of creativity to save a life.

A late-night rescue operation in Phoenix captured hearts after two frightened puppies were safely pulled from a stormwater pipe, thanks to the combined efforts of local residents and animal welfare teams, including Phoenix Animal Care & Treatment and START Rescue.

The situation began when a resident walking home in the evening heard faint cries coming from a nearby manhole. After lifting the cover, they discovered two tiny puppies trapped deep inside the pipe.

Rescue teams arrived later that night and quickly realised this would not be a straightforward operation. The pipe was too tight to enter fully, and every attempt to reach the puppies only pushed them deeper into hiding. Working together, the teams carefully traced both ends of the pipe and blocked off one side to limit the space the puppies could move in.

After hours of patience and teamwork, the plan worked. One puppy was gently guided toward one end of the pipe, while the other made its way to the opposite side.

By the early hours of the morning, just after 2:30am, both puppies were safely out.

While it remains unclear how they ended up trapped underground, what stood out was the determination of everyone involved.

It was a long night, but one that ended in the best possible way.


Sources: SAFE/ Facebook 
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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. 

 

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Trail Runner Stephanie Becomes Mountain Hero on Platteklip Gorge https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/hero-stephanie-helps-hiker-platteklip-gorge/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/hero-stephanie-helps-hiker-platteklip-gorge/#respond Tue, 17 Mar 2026 06:23:36 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=180680

Trail runner Stephanie Crossland will be running to raise funds for Cape Town’s mountain heroes in May. Little did she know that this month, she’d actually become one!   Cape...

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Trail runner Stephanie Crossland will be running to raise funds for Cape Town’s mountain heroes in May. Little did she know that this month, she’d actually become one!

 

Cape Town, South Africa (17 March 2026) – Being in Cape Town calls for a mission up a mountain. Unfortunately, the adventure turned serious for a 66-year-old visitor from Belgium on Sunday.

While hiking the lower section of Platteklip Gorge with her husband, the heat became overwhelming – it was especially hot in Cape Town last week.

The sun was unforgiving on the trail, the most direct and popular hiking trail to the top of Table Mountain. The situation became an emergency when the woman collapsed and lost consciousness.

“The couple had walked from the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Lower Cable Station to the base of the gorge in very hot conditions when the woman suddenly began to feel weak. She sat down and briefly lost consciousness before regaining awareness and vomiting – a concerning sign of heat-related illness.” shares the Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR).

Stephanie Crossland, a runner from the West Coast Athletic Club, leapt into action when she came across the couple and realised what was happening. Having recently attended a safety talk by WSAR, she knew exactly what to do…

She immediately called the emergency number (021 937 0300) and then dug into her running pack to find a space blanket. She used it to create a makeshift sun shield, keeping the tourist protected until rescuers arrived.

“WSAR would like to extend a sincere thank you to Medhold Medical for their generous donation of emergency space blankets. Some of these were distributed during the recent West Coast Athletic Club safety evening – and in this case, one of them was used exactly as intended to help protect a collapsed hiker from the harsh sun.” shares WSAR.

When the WSAR team reached them, they were able to cool the woman down with wet towels and eventually piggybacked her all the way down the trail to an ambulance waiting. It was a team effort, but it started with one person being willing to stop and help a stranger.

The best part of this story is that Stephanie’s mountain heroics are only just beginning. She is currently gearing up for the Cableway Charity Challenge, an incredible event where athletes summit the mountain multiple times in a day (as many times as possible) to raise funds for the very people who keep our trails safe.

“We’d also like to recognise the runner who raised the alarm, Stephanie Crossland, who will soon be taking on the Cableway Charity Challenge to raise funds for charity.”

If you’d like to back Stephanie’s mission, you can help her give back to the silent heroes of our mountains by sponsoring her challenge here!


Sources: Linked above.
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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. 

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Meet Nala: The Playful Labrador Hoping to Find Her Perfect Family https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/meet-nala-the-playful-labrador-hoping-to-find-her-perfect-family/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/meet-nala-the-playful-labrador-hoping-to-find-her-perfect-family/#respond Fri, 13 Mar 2026 06:33:10 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=180346

The volunteer-run team at Labrador Rescue South Africa is working to match Nala with a family who loves adventure, playtime and plenty of companionship   Johannesburg, South Africa (13 March...

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The volunteer-run team at Labrador Rescue South Africa is working to match Nala with a family who loves adventure, playtime and plenty of companionship

 

Johannesburg, South Africa (13 March 2026) – Finding the right home can change one’s life! That’s what the team at Labrador Rescue South Africa hopes for sweet Nala, an affectionate and energetic Labrador looking for a family to call her own.

The volunteer-led rescue group has spent years helping Labradors across the country find loving homes when life takes unexpected turns for their owners. It all began as a shared love for one of the world’s most loyal and family-friendly dog breeds. And now that love has grown into a compassionate community dedicated to giving these dogs a second chance.

Run entirely by volunteers, Labrador Rescue South Africa supports families who can no longer keep their pets. Right now, one very special pup is hoping her next chapter is just around the corner.

Nala is a happy, affectionate Labrador who absolutely loves being around people. Whether it’s swimming, running around during playtime or simply relaxing close to her favourite humans, she thrives on companionship and activity.

Nala has already attended puppy school too, so she brings lovely manners along with her playful personality. Combined with her loyal nature and bright energy, she has all the ingredients to become an incredible companion in the right home. For the team at Labrador Rescue South Africa, stories like Nala’s are at the heart of everything they do.

To learn more about Nala and how you can support her journey to a loving home, follow the link here.


Sources: Labrador Rescue South Africa 
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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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NSRI Assists Three Teens After Boat Capsizes Near Plettenberg Bay https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/nsri-rescue-teens-capsized-boat/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/nsri-rescue-teens-capsized-boat/#respond Mon, 09 Mar 2026 08:00:52 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=179733

NSRI volunteers launched a rescue response after a fishing boat capsized near Plettenberg Bay, leaving three teenagers in the water.   Plettenberg, South Africa (09 March 2026) – Three teenagers...

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NSRI volunteers launched a rescue response after a fishing boat capsized near Plettenberg Bay, leaving three teenagers in the water.

 

Plettenberg, South Africa (09 March 2026) – Three teenagers are safe after their small fishing boat capsized near the Keurbooms River Mouth outside Plettenberg Bay on Sunday morning, prompting a swift response from the National Sea Rescue Institute.

According to NSRI Plettenberg Bay duty coxswain Robbie Gibson, rescue crews were alerted shortly after 10 am when eyewitnesses reported that a rigid hull inflatable boat had capsized in the surf zone at the Keurbooms River Mouth, with three people believed to be in the water.

“At 10h04, Sunday, 8 March, NSRI Plettenberg Bay duty crew were activated following eyewitness reports of a RHIB capsized in the Keurbooms River Mouth with 3 people onboard reported to be in the water,” Gibson explained.

NSRI rescue swimmers responded immediately while additional crew members headed to the station’s rescue base to launch two rescue craft, the Ray Farnham Rescuer and the Eric Stratford. The coordinated response ensured that rescuers could reach the area quickly and assess the situation.

Fortunately, by the time rescuers arrived on the scene, the three local teenage boys had already made their way safely to the shoreline. Their capsized boat was recovered from the surf zone while the teenagers were medically assessed on the beach.

“The 3 teenagers were medically assessed and with only 2 sustaining minor injuries they were reunited with family and they required no further assistance,” Gibson said.

Initial reports suggest the teenagers had been fishing from their boat on the Keurbooms Lagoon when their craft was swept out through the river mouth. Despite deploying an anchor in an attempt to stabilise the vessel, the boat dragged anchor before eventually capsizing in the rougher water.

While the incident could easily have had a far more serious outcome, the quick actions of those nearby and the rapid response from the NSRI ensured the situation was resolved safely.

The National Sea Rescue Institute operates as a non-profit organisation dedicated to drowning prevention and water safety across South Africa. Through education programmes, rescue operations and constant preparedness, its volunteers work around the clock to protect lives in and around the country’s waters.

NSRI volunteers remain on call 24 hours a day and rely heavily on donations and sponsorships to support their life saving work. Their goal is simple but powerful: to help create a future where drowning incidents are minimised and everyone can enjoy South Africa’s waterways safely.


Sources: NSRI 
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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. 

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‘I Owe Them My Life’ – Workers Carry Injured Tourist to Safety at Robberg https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/cape-nature-team-save-tourist-robberg/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/cape-nature-team-save-tourist-robberg/#respond Fri, 20 Feb 2026 13:14:22 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=178177

Rosalind will never forget the day when she took a tumble in South Africa, and three kind strangers stepped in to save her.   Western Cape, South Africa (20 February...

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Rosalind will never forget the day when she took a tumble in South Africa, and three kind strangers stepped in to save her.

 

Western Cape, South Africa (20 February 2026) – A hike along Robberg Nature Reserve took a painful turn for London tourist Rosalind Innes after she slipped on a rock and broke her ankle.

Rosalind and her husband had been exploring around the reserve when the accident happened. The rocky and uneven path back was impossible to manage with the injury. The weather was only getting worse. They knew that going back alone wasn’t an option.

That’s when CapeNature EPWP general worker Vuyani Charlie, who was busy with trail maintenance nearby, was alerted by Rosalind’s husband. He immediately grasped how serious the situation was, and without hesitation, he told them he would get help.

After climbing to higher ground to find a cell signal, Vuyani managed to contact the field rangers on duty, Charles Minnaar and Petrus Lamini. The rangers were on the Island section of Robberg at the time, meaning they still had to navigate their way across to reach Rosalind.

Ms Rosalind Innes being assisted by staff from Robberg Nature Reserve

“Together, the three men worked with calm precision and compassionate care, navigating slippery rocks, supporting Ms Innes’ injured leg, and shielding her from the harsh elements. What followed was a gruelling four-hour rescue effort, requiring physical endurance, teamwork, and unrelenting determination to bring her to safety.” shares CapeNature.

Rosalind says she still gets emotional thinking about it.

Robberg
Ms Rosalind Innes flanked by her rescuers Vuyani Charlie (l) and Petrus Lamini (r)

“I truly do not know what I would have done without them,” she said. “I owe them my life, particularly Vuyani Charlie, as I was simply not strong enough to get out on my own. They kept me calm and safe, and supported me both physically and mentally through a horrendous ordeal.”

Once safely off the reserve, she was transported to a local hospital for treatment.

Kindness is a quality South Africans have in abundance. Most of our people are good people. We help ducks cross the road.  We take care of the needy.  We do what we can to spread positivity and light. And when there’s a stranger in distress, we don’t think twice about helping.

Ms Rosalind Innes, a visitor from the UK saved by field rangers from a daunting experience at Robberg Nature Reserve

“Our field rangers are more than custodians of our natural heritage – they are protectors, guides, and often the first responders when things go wrong. Their rapid assessment, coordinated response, and sustained effort over several hours ensured the safe recovery and evacuation of a stranded hiker under challenging conditions. They turned a potentially devastating situation into a story of hope, resilience, and teamwork. These continue to be our South African themes.” shares CapeNature CEO, Dr Ashley Naidoo.

Heroes don’t wear capes, they work for CapeNature!

CapeNature has executed 21 successful search and rescues across its nature reserves in the Western Cape over the past year.


Sources: CapeNature. 
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. 

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Community Rescues Three Dogs Found Terrified on the N2 Freeway https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/three-dogs-rescued-safe/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/three-dogs-rescued-safe/#respond Wed, 28 Jan 2026 06:30:38 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=175423

A tense seven-hour rescue operation along the N2 brought three terrified dogs to safety, with the support of security teams, vets, and volunteers.   Durban, South Africa (28 January 2026)...

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A tense seven-hour rescue operation along the N2 brought three terrified dogs to safety, with the support of security teams, vets, and volunteers.

 

Durban, South Africa (28 January 2026) – What started as a drive to collect another dog turned into a mission none of the SAFE team could ignore. On a Sunday morning along the N2, three dogs were spotted.

They were small and running for their lives, but catching them proved impossible. Calls kept coming in the next two days from concerned residents who had seen the pups.

By Wednesday, the team finally got the break they needed. Marshall Security, keeping watch near Sibaya, contacted the rescue team. What followed was a seven-hour operation where every second counted. The dogs faced not only the dangers of speeding traffic but also the threat of traps scattered across the area. The stakes couldn’t have been higher.

This rescue was a team effort in every sense. Andreas and the Marshall Security guarding division were tireless. Tracking, communicating, and lending a hand every step of the way. Nathi from the SPCA assisted once the female dog was safely trapped, despite a busy schedule. Special thanks also went to Nanna Yvonne, who sponsored traps from last year that made the capture possible.

Even a holidaymaker from Johannesburg, who joined in Umdloti, ran tirelessly along the beach to ensure the final dog was safely secured. Westville Veterinary Hospital handled the two terrified boys with care, while Mich from Yvonne’s Kennels offered a safe space for them to start healing physically and emotionally.

Now the focus shifts to recovery. The male dog, named Hooter, is being treated for Erlichia with a course of antibiotics. Smooch, the other boy, remains shut down but has also started treatment. Both were riddled with ticks and will need time, care, and emotional support to regain trust and health.

SAFE is appealing to the public for help covering veterinary bills and kennel fees while the dogs recover and eventually get neutered.

Banking Details for Donations:

  • Account Name: SAFE FOSTERING NETWORK NPC
  • Account Type: Current
  • Account Number: 63008988694
  • Branch Code: 220229
  • Swift Code: FIRNZAJJ
  • Reference: Freeway Rescue

Sources: SAFE 
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How Masiphumelele Fires Spark Urgent Animal Rescue Efforts https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/masiphumelele-fires-animal-rescue-efforts/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/masiphumelele-fires-animal-rescue-efforts/#respond Wed, 21 Jan 2026 12:00:06 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=174799

The Animal Welfare Society of South Africa, alongside TEARS Animal Rescue, is working tirelessly to rescue and comfort pets and community animals affected by the recent Masiphumelele fires. Here’s how...

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The Animal Welfare Society of South Africa, alongside TEARS Animal Rescue, is working tirelessly to rescue and comfort pets and community animals affected by the recent Masiphumelele fires. Here’s how you can help.

 

Masiphumelele, South Africa (21 January 2026) – The recent fires in Masiphumelele have left many pets and community animals in urgent need of care, and the response from the Animal Welfare Society of South Africa (AWSSA) and its partners has been swift and unwavering. From rescuing animals trapped in flames to providing medical attention and essential supplies, these organisations are working tirelessly to bring relief to those who have lost so much.

Pretty the cat, one of the victims of the fires, was rescued and safely brought to the AWSSA hospital, where she is being closely monitored for smoke inhalation. She is now receiving the care and attention she needs to recover. Rescue teams, including TEARS Animal Rescue, remain on the ground daily, combing the affected areas to ensure that any injured or displaced animals are found and treated.

The Animal Welfare Society of South Africa has long been at the forefront of supporting animals in crisis. Beyond emergencies like the Masiphumelele fires, AWSSA provides ongoing veterinary care, rescue operations, and educational initiatives to protect animals and strengthen community involvement. The society’s dedication ensures that help reaches animals in both everyday and extraordinary situations, reflecting its commitment to real, tangible impact in the lives of animals.

In the wake of the fires, AWSSA is urgently calling on the public to help. Donations of blankets, Silbecor burn wound ointment, bottled water, dog food, and cat food are essential for ongoing rescue and care efforts. Drop-off points have been set up at:

  • Forest Drive Veterinary Clinic (Pinelands)
  • Gummi Bears (Plumstead)
  • The Pelican (Hout Bay)
  • TEARS Animal Rescue

Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a meaningful difference for animals who have lost everything in the blaze.

For those wishing to donate financially, contributions can be made directly to the AWSSA Fire Relief Fund:

  • Bank: Nedbank
  • Account Name: Animal Welfare Society of SA
  • Account Number: 114 822 258 8
  • Branch Code: 198765
  • Reference: Fire Relief

For online donations follow the link here.


Sources: Animal Welfare Society of SA 
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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. 

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Cape Town’s Mountains in Safe Hands During Festive Hikes https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/safe-hikers-wsar-festive-season/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/safe-hikers-wsar-festive-season/#respond Mon, 05 Jan 2026 13:30:54 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=172929

Thanks to Wilderness Search and Rescue and partner teams, Lion’s Head trails were safe, guiding hikers through busy paths during the holiday season.   Cape Town, South Africa (05 January...

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Thanks to Wilderness Search and Rescue and partner teams, Lion’s Head trails were safe, guiding hikers through busy paths during the holiday season.

 

Cape Town, South Africa (05 January 2026) – Cape Town is a magnet over the festive season, attracting South Africans from across the country as well as international visitors. With the Mother City buzzing, Wilderness Search And Rescue (WSAR) and a host of partner agencies stepped up to make sure Lion’s Head trails remained safe and enjoyable from Boxing Day through New Year’s Day, finishing with the first full moon hike of 2026 on Saturday, 3 January.

The final patrol coincided with the Wolf Moon, and spirits were high. Headlamps lit the way, groups laughed, and some even let out a few enthusiastic howls, adding a playful touch to the hike. Safety on the trails was anything but casual as the teams ensured that their presence meant hikers received guidance, water top-ups, and assistance with minor issues, like blister care.

Thanks to their efforts no significant incidents were reported across three patrols, highlighting the teams’ careful planning and coordination.

These patrols serve as a reminder that mountain safety is a shared responsibility. Hikers are encouraged to:

  • Start early
  • Carry enough water
  • Be patient
  • Look out for one another
  • Keep the correct emergency number handy: 021 937 0300

For more information on WSAR and supporting their work, visit their website.


Sources: WSAR Western Cape 
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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. 

 

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