A note from our Editor

Charis Torrance

Welcome to the first edition of your new best friend – Pet Pals

Pet Pals is more than just a magazine; it’s a community for pet lovers, created by pet lovers. We’re so excited to give you a glimpse into the pet news and trends we’re talking about.

When it comes to your pet’s health, we’ve got you covered. Dr Ingrid de Wet answers your most pressing questions, and we explore the true cost of pet care and explain why pet insurance isn’t just a scam – it could save your pet’s life.

We hope you and your furry friend enjoy our very first edition!

Charis

Dogs7 Articles
Cats5 Articles
Pocket Pets1 Articles
Aquatic Pets1 Articles
Birds1 Articles
Reptiles1 Articles
Amphibians0 Articles
Arachnids0 Articles

Pet Health

FeaturedPet Health

Why “itchy skin” is more than just a surface problem

We often think of itchy skin as something superficial, a quick fix with a cream or a change inweather. But increasingly, research is...

Pet ownership costs are rising in South Africa. Learn about vet bills, insurance and how to plan for your pet’s long-term care.
FeaturedPet Health

Understanding the heart and wallet of pet ownership in 2026

By Kavisha Parbhoo, Head of Strategy and Product at Miway The emotional rewards of owning a pet are undeniable, but the financial reality...

Chocolate can be dangerous for dogs. Learn how to keep your pet safe this Easter with simple tips for families.
FeaturedPet Health

How to keep your dog safe from chocolate this Easter

Easter is a time for family, fun and plenty of chocolate. From foil-wrapped eggs hidden in the garden to baskets filled with treats...

NSPCA News

207 dogs and cats sterilised in Lavender Hill drive as SPCA intensifies efforts to curb stray and unwanted animals.
FeaturedNSPCA NewsPet Health

World Spay Day: 207 animals sterilised in Cape Town

A two-day mass sterilisation drive in Lavender Hill and Cafda Village has resulted in 207 dogs and cats being sterilised, as the Cape...

Explore careers in animal welfare in South Africa and learn how professionals at the NSPCA protect animals through skilled, meaningful work.
NSPCA News

Careers That Count: Building a Future in Animal Welfare

Choosing a career goes beyond earning an income. You want work that reflects your values, uses your skills, and leaves a meaningful mark....

Learn how the public plays a vital role in animal welfare in South Africa, from reporting cruelty to making ethical choices.
NSPCA News

How the Public Plays a Vital Role in Animal Welfare

Animal welfare in South Africa does not rest on the shoulders of the National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) alone. Every day, our ability...

Facing financial strain and cannot care for your pet? Learn safe, compassionate options and how the NSPCA can help protect your animal.
NSPCA NewsAdoption & RescueFeaturedPet - friendly Living

When You Can No Longer Care for Your Pet: Making a Difficult Decision with Compassion

Across South Africa, rising living costs are forcing many households to make painful financial choices. Families are balancing school fees, transport, food and...

How pets fit into estate and sectional title living in South Africa, with guidance on welfare, nuisance issues and responsible ownership.
FeaturedNSPCA News

Living Together: Pets and Community Life in South Africa

As estate living, townhouses and sectional title developments continue to expand across South Africa, questions around pets in shared spaces are becoming more...

Animal cruelty videos are spreading fast on South African social media. The NSPCA explains why sharing abuse causes harm.
FeaturedNSPCA News

Cruelty for Clicks: Understanding Animal Abuse on Social Media

The rapid growth of social media platforms in South Africa has changed how people consume and share content. While these platforms support education...