Hartbeespoort-based BarkingMad/Dog Town, South Africa’s largest animal welfare networking platform, has announced the launch of its powerful new initiative, “Not Without My Dog.”

Tracy McQuarrie

This campaign is an initiative dedicated to finding solutions that keep pets where they belong: at home, with the people who love them.
“Imagine being told you can’t keep your dog—the companion who is part of your family—simply because of a housing rule. This heartbreaking reality is facing many South African families, as estates and complexes look to impose blanket pet bans that leave residents with an impossible choice: their home or their beloved dog,” says Tracy McQuarrie, Founder of BarkingMad/Dog Town and leading voice in animal welfare advocacy. “At BarkingMad, we believe no one should ever have to say goodbye to their pet because of circumstances beyond their control.”
The first step in the campaign is a call-to-action for the public to participate in a nationwide survey, a vital step toward understanding the scope of South Africa’s pet surrender crisis. “The results of this survey will help shape policy recommendations, raise awareness, and develop real, life-saving solutions to keep pets out of shelters and in the homes where they belong. This campaign is about keeping families together,” she says.
The campaign aims to ensure the following:• Pet-friendly housing support: helping families find homes where their pets are welcome.
• Behavioural assistance: because sometimes, a little training can make all the difference.
• Temporary care solutions: so no pet is left behind when life gets hard.
• Advocacy and awareness: challenging no-pet policies and giving families a voice.
Through education, dialogue, and legal support resources provided on the campaign’s website (www.notwithoutmydog.co.za), BarkingMad aims to empower residents to advocate for their rights and the well-being of their dogs.
BarkingMad is calling on the public to take part in our nationwide survey, a vital step towards understanding the scope of South Africa’s pet surrender crisis. “Your voice matters. Every answer helps us better understand the challenges faced by pet owners and find real solutions—so fewer pets end up in shelters and more families stay whole.”
Because no one should have to choose between a roof over their head and their best friend.
Take the survey now at www.notwithoutmydog.co.za/survey.