When Sanchia Lemmer moved to Langebaan, her passion for animals quickly drew her to the local animal shelter. Although she had dreamed of becoming a veterinarian, life took her on a different path. Yet, her unwavering love for animals found its home here, where she has been volunteering since July 2022.
“I’ve always volunteered,” Sanchia shares. “Even before moving to Langebaan. Animals have always been my passion, and this shelter allows me to make a difference in their lives.”
Building a Better Cattery and Saving Lives
One of Sanchia’s most memorable moments was witnessing the transformation of the shelter’s cattery. “When the cattery was upgraded, it had a huge impact on the adult cats—and us volunteers too,” she recalls.
But it’s the individual stories of the fur babies that truly fuel her dedication. Two stand out vividly: Bree and Einstein.
Bree, a sweet cat who had her nose amputated due to cancer, was given only a few years to live. Einstein, on the other hand, was found emaciated and barely holding on at Calypso Beach. Both cats, with Sanchia’s care and the shelter’s support, found loving homes. “There are so many happy endings like these that stay with me,” she says with a smile.
A Day in the Life of a Volunteer
As Lynn Grinaker’s second-in-command, Sanchia’s involvement at the shelter goes beyond her Sunday and occasional Saturday shifts. From assisting with rescues and phone calls to handling admin work, adoption processes, and even small media posts, Sanchia’s commitment is constant. “I’m always available to help when needed,” she says.
When asked if she has a favourite cat, Sanchia laughs. “Max? Just kidding! I could never pick one. They’re all so unique, and I’d do anything for any animal in need.”
The Joys and Challenges of Shelter Work
For Sanchia, the most rewarding part of volunteering is seeing the cats transform. “Watching sick cats recover, wilder ones learn to trust humans, and then seeing them flourish in their forever homes—it’s all worth it.”
However, shelter life isn’t without its heartbreaks. One of the saddest moments she recalls involved a cat with severe cancer that had to be humanely euthanized. “The hardest part is the ignorance and cruelty from people. The animals aren’t the ones causing sadness—it’s always humans,” she says with quiet resolve.
A Lifelong Mission
If given the chance, Sanchia wouldn’t hesitate to do it all over again. “No one will stop me from volunteering. The animals need us to be their voice.”
Her dream for the shelter is simple yet profound: to educate the community, improve the lives of every cat, and find them the loving homes they deserve.
A Message to the Community
Sanchia believes the community plays a critical role in the shelter’s mission. “Educate yourself about cats and their wellbeing. Sterilize your pets, report cruelty, and get involved—whether it’s lending a hand or donating your time.”
For Aspiring Volunteers
Her advice for anyone considering shelter work is to think carefully about the commitment. “Ask yourself what you’re prepared to do and how it fits your lifestyle. If it feeds your soul, then you’re in the right place.”
A Call to Action
“All animals are innocent and voiceless,” Sanchia emphasizes. “As humans, we have a moral obligation to protect any living being that crosses our path.”
Sanchia’s dedication to the shelter and its cats is a testament to the difference one person can make. From fostering fragile lives to helping the shelter run smoothly, she is an inspiration to all who share her passion for animals.
