Two dog brothers found hope in an unexpected place: a forgotten stretch of the R513.

Cullinan, South Africa (30 April 2025) — Hope can be found where it is expected least. This was the case for two dog brothers left to fend for themselves on a forgotten stretch of the R513 who, thanks to the effort of different humans, have a real shot at a good life.

The Ridgeback and the Africanis dogs had become brothers but had no family to care for them. They had been left in an area that the Tshwane SPCA describes as something of a ‘dumping ground’ for dogs, and had become skin and bone, consequentially.

Despite attempts from different people who tried to catch the dog brothers, the roadside duo did not have enough trust in humans to go with any of them.

However, this all changed recently when a grey bakkie stopped; armed with family buckets (one with fried chicken and one with water) and patience.

After the dogs tucked into the meal as if it were their last, the bakkie Good Samaritans attempted to catch the two to no avail. Not giving up and determined to watch over the young pooches, they waited for help.

Said help first came in the form of NSPCA Inspector Veronica van Greunen. However, not even the inspector could catch the two. This, of course, didn’t mean giving up. Rather, it meant that it was time to call for back-up.

The Tshwane SPCA entered the chat; eventually succeeding in securing the two and taking them to the SPCA. This is likely the closest thing to a home the two had enjoyed in a while.

“At this moment, the two brothers are in the care of the Tshwane SPCA, where thy are receiving the love, nutrition, and medical attention they so desperately need,” the Tshwane SPCA said. 

“With time, dedicated care, and patience, they will flourish and rediscover the joy they were so cruelly denied.” 

The Tshwane SPCA emphasizes bringing a dog to them before even considering abandoning them on a road.

“Dumping an animal is an act of cruelty and betrayal—they are left confused, broken, waiting for someone who will never return.”

Sources: Tshwane SPCA 

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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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The quietest little creature on Earth just made the loudest noise… and the world is finally listening. This might change the future of pangolins!

Global (30 April 2025) – The tides may finally be turning for Pangolins, often referred to as one of the most exploited creatures on Earth.

In a move that’s sending waves through conservation communities, China has announced that it will remove Guilingji, a traditional medicine containing pangolin ingredients, from its official 2025 Pharmacopoeia. The decision, confirmed in the revised edition released on the 25th of March, signals a significant step forward in wildlife protection and aligns with a growing global push to end the use of endangered animals in medicine.

And the news couldn’t have come at a more poetic time.

Just as China makes headlines for moving away from pangolin-based remedies, a breathtaking South African documentary is climbing the Netflix charts. Kulu: The Pangolin’s Journey (now in the global top 10) follows the tender and courageous path of a rescued pangolin being nursed back to health and returned to the wild. The film is beautiful. Heart-wrenching. Hopeful. And utterly unforgettable. It tells the story of these shy, scale-covered animals, often called the real-life dragons of the natural world, and the humans fighting for their survival.

And suddenly, the world is listening.

Pangolins are currently the most trafficked mammals on the planet. Poached for their scales (wrongly believed to have healing properties) and meat (considered a delicacy in some parts of Asia), they’ve suffered silently for decades. Despite international bans and increasing legal protections, demand for their body parts has continued, especially in traditional medicine markets. Guilingji, a widely known Chinese remedy that included red ginseng, deer antler, seahorse and pangolin, has long been controversial. First listed as a national secret prescription in 1957, it’s held symbolic value in the world of Traditional Chinese Medicine. But that status has now changed. While it doesn’t amount to a total ban, the removal from the Pharmacopoeia – China’s official reference for safe, standardised medical treatments – makes it harder to promote, prescribe, or legitimise its use.

According to experts, the shift reflects a growing awareness of ethical medicine and sustainable health practices. Animal-based products without proven medical value are slowly being phased out in favour of plant-based alternatives, particularly when those ingredients come at a high cost to biodiversity and species survival.

For pangolins, this move, paired with the momentum of the Netflix documentary,  could be a massive catalyst for change. Conservationists have been shouting into what may feel like a void for years, fighting for a species most people had never even heard of. But now, the world is paying attention. Millions of people are watching. And one of the most powerful nations on Earth is rewriting tradition with compassion at its core.

This is progress. Slow. Hard-won. But deeply meaningful.

Because when we choose empathy over exploitation, and understanding over outdated beliefs, we do more than protect a single species, we remind ourselves what kind of world we’re capable of creating.

Sources: Trade and Industry Development | World Animal Protection | Pangolin: Kulu’s journey 

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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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When hope was slipping away, two strangers living under a Johannesburg bridge risked everything to rescue a lost little dog… and reminded us all that true kindness still exists.

Johannesburg, South Africa (28 April 2025) – When a loved one goes missing, your world stops. And when that loved one has four paws, a scruffy little beard and a heart full of love, the panic is overwhelming.

That’s exactly what happened to Stoffel van Wyk, an internationally awarded hairstylist from Johannesburg, when his beloved Schnauzer, Ella, vanished shortly after moving into a new home. Gates jammed, doors unlatched… and in a blink, Ella was gone. What followed was a desperate race against time: posters plastered across the city, calls to vets and animal shelters, endless scrolling through lost-and-found groups. Some responses gave hope; others, sadly, were cruel attempts to scam a family already broken with worry.

But then, when it mattered most, kindness showed up, in the most unexpected place, from the most unexpected heroes. And the story that unfolded next is reminding thousands that humanity’s heart still beats strong.

After posting Ella’s disappearance across every platform they could find, Stoffel’s family received a message that would change everything.

A kind stranger named Thando reached out, “Hi, my name is Thando. I saw Ella this afternoon around 13h00 under the M1 bridge near the Melrose BP (Corlett Drive off-ramp). The homeless individuals living there had her tied to the bridge strut. I’m only seeing your poster now as I’m going through my gallery deleting pictures. I’m very sure it’s your pet because, as my girlfriend was driving, she asked, ‘how do those guys manage to feed their dog?’ Thanks to traffic, I was able to have a long, hard look and I wondered what kind of dog it was; it has a nicer moustache than most men.”

While Thando’s message was landing, another call came through. This time it was from Rastaman (affectionately known as Vickey) who lives under the bridge.

He told them he had seen a tiny black dog on the highway, running dangerously close to speeding cars. Without hesitation, he dashed into the traffic to rescue her. Together with his friend, Nhlanhla, they fed her, gave her water and even washed her down with Sunlight liquid to get the grime and rain off her little body.

Nhlanhla then spotted one of the posters at Norwood Spar, memorised the contact number by scribbling it onto his hand and they borrowed a phone to make the call that would reunite Ella with her devastated family.

They made no demands for reward, no hint of wanting anything in return, they were simply happy that Ella could be reunited with her family.

Of course, Stoffel’s family insisted on rewarding them properly, and, thanks to the support of good friends and the incredible Oaklands Veterinary Clinic, they also committed to providing Rastaman and Nhlanhla with food supplies for the months ahead.

But the story doesn’t end there either. It turns out these quiet heroes have been saving animals around the Corlett Drive area for quite some time, stepping up where no one else did, proving that kindness thrives in the most unexpected corners of society.

As one social media user beautifully summed up, “Rastaman and Nhlanhla are proof that there are some incredible people out there. Absolutely inspiring.”

Another added, “Awesome to hear… Ella was a lucky doggie… Does restore one’s faith… There are still lots of kind people out there.”

Others simply said, “What an incredible story. We have amazing people in South Africa.”

Ella’s name, fittingly, means “come to me” in Greek. And thanks to the love, courage, and pure humanity of two strangers under a bridge, she did exactly that… she found her way back home.

Sources: Stoffel van Wyk Facebook 

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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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Tammy was left for dead after a brutal panga attack… but today, she’s not just alive, she’s loved, safe and finally home (after becoming a Foster-Fail).

Eastern Cape, South Africa (23 March 2025) – Tammy the dog has defied every odd stacked against her – and now, she’s not just surviving, she’s thriving.

Last month, we shared a heartbreaking yet hopeful story about a brave Africanis pup who was viciously attacked with a panga. The assault left her with horrific injuries, but thanks to the unwavering love of her caregivers and the generosity of Good Things Guy readers, she began her road to recovery.

Today, we’re back with an update – and it’s the kind that will restore your faith in the power of kindness.

“She has improved in leaps and bounds – and we all at St Francis Animal Rescue are absolutely thrilled that we made the decision to fight for this little girlie’s life,” Chantel James, her devoted carer, told Good Things Guy.

“Needless to say, she is now a Foster-Fail, as I couldn’t bear to be without her happy smile and beautiful big brown eyes every day.”

Tammy’s story began when volunteers at St Francis Animal Rescue, an all-volunteer organisation based in the informal settlement of Sea Vista, St Francis Bay, received an urgent call. A young female dog had been brutally attacked by an alleged drug addict and her injuries were almost beyond comprehension. Her thigh had been stripped down to the muscle and she was in agonising pain.

But even then, she didn’t whimper.

Moved by her courage, Chantel and her best friend, Mae Dutton, jumped into action. With help from the incredible team at Humansdorp Vet Clinic, especially Dr Annelise Barker, they started the long and expensive journey to help Tammy heal. The little dog endured five surgeries in just four weeks, round-the-clock care, and countless bandage changes. Chantel poured her heart (and savings) into Tammy’s recovery – but she wasn’t alone.

“And I just wanted to send a BIG thank you for the role that you played in her road to recovery,” Chantel added, speaking to the Good Things Guy community.

“We received many donations which helped towards her astronomical vets bills (5 surgeries in 4 weeks!!) THANK YOU – and big sloppy kisses from our special TamTam.”

It’s not just the medical milestones that make this story so special. It’s the bond that has blossomed. Tammy, once traumatised and broken, is now a loved family member – a cheeky, loving pup who gets to travel with Chantel to KwaZulu-Natal and continue her healing journey by her side.

St Francis Animal Rescue – led by the extraordinary Susan Rae Fox and her team – continues to uplift their community with outreach programmes, free vaccinations, sterilisation campaigns, fencing initiatives, and a whole lot of heart. They’ve freed over 120 dogs from chains and given countless pets a second chance.

Tammy’s survival is more than just a feel-good update – it’s proof of what happens when people choose compassion. From the volunteers who rushed to her side, to the vets who treated her wounds, to every person who donated or shared her story – this win belongs to all of us.

Sources: Interview with Chantel James 

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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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In a race against time, conservationists in Northern Zululand rescued, rehabilitated and released two critically endangered African White-backed Vultures and a juvenile Bateleur after a devastating poisoning incident… turning tragedy into a powerful story of survival.

Northern Zululand, South Africa (25 February 2025) – In a moment of hope following a devastating poisoning incident, two critically endangered African White-backed Vultures and a juvenile Bateleur have been successfully rehabilitated and released back into the wild.

Their survival is thanks to the swift action and expertise of dedicated conservationists who refused to let tragedy have the final say.

The ordeal began in early November 2024 when rangers from Somkhanda Game Reserve, while on routine patrol, discovered a mass poisoning event. The Zululand Vulture Project immediately alerted Wildlife ACT’s Emergency Response team, and what they found was heartbreaking – several vultures had already succumbed. However, three birds were still alive, barely holding on, displaying severe poisoning symptoms. Their only chance at survival depended on immediate intervention.

Wildlife ACT’s team, working alongside Somkhanda rangers, wasted no time. They carefully captured the weakened birds and administered first aid on-site to counter the effects of the poison.

“It is essential to respond to events like these as quickly as possible and to provide treatment immediately, both to prevent further casualties and to hopefully save birds that have not yet succumbed to the effects of the poison. Timely intervention not only increases the chances of recovery but also prevents further harm to the ecosystem, ensuring that these endangered species have a fighting chance at survival,” said Chris du Toit, Wildlife ACT Emergency Response & Somkhanda Project Conservation Coordinator.

One of the African White-backed Vultures was in critical condition, requiring urgent specialist care. A Heligistix helicopter was swiftly deployed to airlift the bird to the Zululand Wildlife Treatment Centre, run by Kifaru Wildlife Veterinary Services. There, wildlife veterinarian Dr. Mike Toft and his team provided lifesaving care. The other two birds, once stabilised, were also transported to the centre for continued treatment.

What followed was nothing short of remarkable.

Over the next several weeks, all three birds made an inspiring recovery under the dedicated care of the veterinary team. The juvenile Bateleur, proving to be a fighter, bounced back quickly and was released within two weeks, fitted with a GPS tracker to monitor its movements.

The two African White-backed Vultures took longer to regain their strength but, after more than a month of rehabilitation, were also released back into the wild. Before their release, Wildlife ACT and the Zululand Vulture Project fitted the birds with GPS tracking devices and ring tags, ensuring their safety while also gathering valuable data on their post-release behaviour.

Vultures play an irreplaceable role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. As nature’s clean-up crew, they prevent the spread of disease by consuming carcasses that would otherwise rot and contaminate the environment. However, incidents like this highlight the ongoing threats they face – poisoning, both accidental and intentional, remains a serious concern.

“While we are delighted by the recovery of the birds that survived this mass poisoning event, we remain deeply troubled by the significant numbers of vultures that continue to be affected by the widespread illegal use of poisons and intentional vulture poisonings for body parts in Zululand. These birds are an essential component of our ecosystem, and we remain dedicated to promoting human-wildlife coexistence through advocacy and awareness initiatives,” said Anel Oliver, Wildlife ACT Species Conservation Director.

While the poisoning event was a stark reminder of the challenges endangered birds face, the rescue, rehabilitation, and successful release of these three birds highlight the power of conservation efforts. It is a story of teamwork, resilience and a commitment to protecting our wildlife.

Beyond saving individual birds, this effort sends a strong message – through collaboration, law enforcement, and education, we can fight back against wildlife crimes and safeguard these incredible species for future generations.

And for the three birds soaring once more over Zululand, this second chance at life is a triumph not just for them but for all who work tirelessly to keep our skies full of wings.

Sources: Wildlife ACT 

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & 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 & hear their incredible stories:

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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In St Francis Bay, a brave dog named Tammy fights for her life after a brutal panga attack. Volunteers from St Francis Animal Rescue are helping her heal – and South Africans can be part of her journey to recovery.

Eastern Cape, South Africa (18 February 2025) – St Francis Animal Rescue is a shining example of compassion in action. Run entirely by volunteers, the organisation works tirelessly to improve the lives of animals in the informal settlement of Sea Vista, St Francis Bay.

Led by Susan Rae Fox and her dedicated team, they have spent eight years making a real difference. From providing food and medical care to educating pet owners, their work has transformed the lives of countless dogs and cats. Their outreach includes free vaccinations, deworming, sterilisation programmes and even an assisted feeding initiative that ensures healthy diets for Sea Vista’s pets. They’ve freed over 120 dogs from chains through their fencing programme and continue to combat animal cruelty through education and hands-on care.

Two weeks ago, St Francis Animal Rescue received a call that broke their hearts. Chantel James, a friend and volunteer at the organisation, shared the tragic story with Good Things Guy.

A young female Africanis had been brutally attacked by an alleged drug addict wielding a panga. The vicious assault left her with a horrifying injury, stripping the skin from her thigh down to the muscle. Despite her unimaginable pain, the little dog was alive – and she needed urgent help.

Without hesitation, a volunteer rushed her to the Humansdorp Vet Clinic, where Dr Annelise Barker took immediate action.

“From the outset, there was something very special about this brave little girl,” Chantel shared.

“She didn’t so much as whimper during her agonising dressing changes and treatments.”

Chantel named her Tammy – a reflection of the fighter they saw in her eyes.

The incredible care team sprang into action. Vets cleaned and bandaged Tammy’s wounds, while Chantel and her best friend, Mae Dutton, stepped up to manage her rehabilitation. It was no small task. Tammy needed round-the-clock care – pain medication every 4-6 hours, regular wound dressings, and constant love. Chantel personally spent R4,000 on Tammy’s care, with veterinary bills exceeding R15,000. Donations from friends began to trickle in to help with the mounting costs.

Despite everything, Tammy’s spirit never dimmed.

“She has developed a close, loving, and trusting relationship with me,” said Chantel.

“Her recovery will be slow, but she’s worth every second.”

Now, with Chantel heading to KwaZulu-Natal for several months, the only option for Tammy’s continued care is to travel with her – an expensive journey costing over R8,000.

This is where South Africans can make a difference. Tammy’s story is a reminder that animal cruelty remains a heartbreaking reality – but it is one we can fight together. St Francis Animal Rescue saves lives but also prevents cruelty through education and sterilisation programmes. Supporting organisations like theirs helps protect more animals from suffering.

How can you help?

Donations towards Tammy’s transport and ongoing care will ensure she continues her road to recovery with the person she trusts most. But it doesn’t stop there – by supporting local animal rescues (whichever one you choose) or reporting cases of abuse, we can all help fight cruelty across South Africa.

Tammy’s journey is one of courage, resilience, and the power of community. She has survived the unthinkable and is now on her path to healing. With the help of compassionate South Africans, she will have her second chance at life. And that is something truly worth celebrating.

Sources: Interview with Chantel James 

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & 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 & hear their incredible stories:

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.

The post Pup Attacked with a Panga Fights for Life with Community’s Help appeared first on Good Things Guy.

A free pet clinic in Vrygrond turned into a dramatic rescue when a shack fire trapped seven dogs behind locked gates. With smoke billowing and time running out, a team of animal welfare heroes charged into the flames – saving every single one.

Western Cape, South Africa (09 February 2025) – What started as a routine free pet clinic in Vrygrond turned into a life-saving animal rescue when a shack fire trapped seven dogs inside a burning shebeen.

Thanks to the quick actions of local animal welfare teams, these beloved pets made it out alive.

The pet clinic—run by AfriPaw, TEARS Animal Rescue and supported by Network for Animals (NFA)—was already a much-needed service for the community, providing vital veterinary care for hundreds of animals. But in an unexpected turn, plumes of thick black smoke signalled an urgent crisis.

“As soon as we got there, we heard terrified dogs howling in distress from behind a solid sheetmetal gate,” explained Luke Barritt, NFA’s Campaign Director.

The challenge? The shebeen owner was hesitant to open the gate, fearing looters would ransack his stock. But behind that metal door, lives were hanging in the balance. After tense negotiations, the gate was cracked open just long enough for Barritt and his team to charge into the smoke-filled chaos.

In a heart-stopping moment, they managed to pull six adult dogs and a puppy to safety.

“It is so lucky we were there,” said Barritt.

“With everyone focused on fighting the fire and holding back looters, no-one was looking out for the animals, and we rescued them just in time.”

Vrygrond, a community facing the daily struggles of poverty and gang violence, was already on edge after a gang leader’s funeral earlier that day. Some locals believe the fire was a targeted attack, retaliation against the shebeen owner for refusing to pay protection money. But amid the chaos and tension, a team of dedicated animal lovers refused to let innocent lives be lost.

While NFA raced to save the trapped dogs, AfriPaw and TEARS carried on with their mission, treating over 420 dogs and 150 cats – providing vaccinations, deworming, sterilisation, and essential medical care.

But this wasn’t just an emergency rescue—it was a moment that highlighted the unwavering dedication of those working to protect Vrygrond’s most vulnerable animals. Their bravery and compassion turned what could have been a devastating loss into a powerful reminder: even in the face of fire and fear, there are people willing to risk it all for the sake of love, loyalty and life.

Sources: Network for Animals 

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & 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 & hear their incredible stories:

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.

The post Heroes in the Flames: Animal Welfare Team Saves Trapped Dogs from Vrygrond Fire appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Johannesburg has a bunny problem – but thankfully, it also has heroes. As abandoned pet rabbits struggle to survive in parks and office complexes, a small but mighty rescue group, Berario Bunnies, is working around the clock to save them.

Johannesburg, South Africa (07 February 2025) – Johannesburg has a bit of an unusual problem – and it’s covered in fur! Over the past few years, tame bunnies have been appearing in parks, office complexes and even suburban gardens, left to fend for themselves after being abandoned.

Domestic rabbits, unlike their wild counterparts, are not equipped for life outside. They struggle to find food, are easy prey for predators and often succumb to the elements.

But amidst this crisis, a group of dedicated individuals has been quietly working behind the scenes to turn the tide for these vulnerable creatures. Berario Bunnies, a nonprofit organisation, has become Joburg’s go-to rescue team for abandoned rabbits. Their mission? To trap, sterilise, and rehome these bunnies, ensuring they get the care and safety they deserve.

This small but mighty team has gained a reputation for their relentless efforts, and many Joburg residents now have them on “speed dial” when they spot a bunny in need.

One of their recent rescues was particularly heartbreaking. Kayla Harris, who calls herself a “concerned outsider trying to help,” shared the story with Good Things Guy after witnessing Berario Bunnies in action.

“A delicate Jersey Woolly was found terrified in an office park where she had been dumped. Her breed’s soft, long fur is not designed for the outdoors—it mats, traps moisture, and leads to infections if not groomed regularly,” Kayla explained.

“By the time we found her, her fur was thick with dirt and debris and her little body exhausted from trying to fend for herself in an unfamiliar territory. Another young female who had been fighting to survive was rescued in the same office park, with a badly broken leg that was beyond repair. Amputation was the only option—an unexpected cost. I asked Berario Bunnies to help and despite their drowning in vet bills and lack of space, they did.”

Kayla’s reason for sharing the story is simple: Berario Bunnies needs support to keep going. The organisation relies entirely on the generosity of South Africans to cover medical expenses, food and shelter for the rabbits they rescue.

“Every bunny that Berario Bunnies take in needs to be sterilised to prevent further unwanted litters. But the funds are so limited. The vet bills have piled up, even with special rescue rates.”

“Please, if there’s anything you can do—whether it’s raising awareness, helping to fundraise, or sharing Berario Bunnies’ story— we would be forever grateful. These animals have suffered enough at the hands of cruel humans. They deserve a chance at a safe, loving life. Berario Bunnies deserves to sigh a breath of relief. They need the community to pull together and help.”

At the heart of it all, this story is not just about abandoned rabbits – it’s about kindness, community and the extraordinary difference that can be made when people come together for good. Joburg may have a bunny problem, but thanks to Berario Bunnies, it also has a solution.

If you would like to help, learn more, or even adopt one of these special rescues, you can visit their Facebook page here: Berario Bunnies.

*There are many incredible organisations helping the bunnies in Johannesburg (and South Africa), this is just one story highlighting the good work they all do. If you want your good news story told (even if it’s not about bunnies), please email stories@goodthingsguy.com.

Sources: Kayla Harris | Berario Bunnies 

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & 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 & hear their incredible stories:

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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The best update! The Egyptian Goose on the loose who found himself trapped on the N2 after being struck by a car has not only made a full recovery; he’s also been returned with his goose partner back home. All this, thanks to an animal inspector who trusted her gut.

Somerset West, South Africa (31 January 2025) — Earlier this week, we shared the story of an Egyptian Goose who found himself on the loose and in the thick of quite the ordeal on the N2.

After sadly being struck by a car, the lucky goose managed to avoid any further collisions while the Animal Welfare Society of SA’s Trainee Inspector Crystal Fester pulled a Tom Cruise and embarked on a quick-thinking, fast-acting mission to rescue the goose from the highway havoc. It was by chance and good fortune that the Animal Welfare Society team were nearby.

The team have since shared an update on the goose’s recovery. Spoiler alert: this one has a very happy ending.

Not only has the goose made a full recovery, he has also made his way home to Poinsettia Dam in Somerset West where his goose partner couldn’t have been happier to have him back on the water following grief over his absence. This reunion and return was all thanks to Crystal once again!

Says the Animal Welfare Society:

“This fairytale ending is a tribute to his rescuer Trainee Inspector Crystal Fester who had an inkling that he’s home was Poinsettia Dam in Somerset West.”

The team added that the release was met with bouts of “hisses and hoots” from the happy-ever-after couple, which was music to the ears of those who made this happy ending and reunion possible.

Sources: AWS

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & 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 & hear their incredible stories:

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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An Egyptian Goose on the loose found itself in a terrible predicament after attempting to cross the road and getting struck by a car. Luckily, the road angels were on the Egyptian Goose’s side that day; allowing for a mission-impossible type of rescue!

Western Cape, South Africa (24 January 2025) — On the ever-busy N2, an Egyptian Goose on the loose found itself in some serious trouble. Attempting to cross the road, the poor goose was hit by a car, which resulted in the webbed-footed pedestrian zooming underneath the vehicle and right into oncoming traffic.

Like a cat with nine lives, luck and the road angels were on the goose’s side that day as the animal managed to avoid being run over by another car whilst in the opposing lane against all odds.

Distressed and trapped on the road, the goose’s luck hadn’t run out just yet. In need of a hero to save its weary tail, it was all too fortunate that The Animal Welfare Society of South Africa just so happened to be on their way to Somerset West at the time of the incident, meaning they were right at the scene and ready to help!

“The shocked driver of the vehicle who stopped to see if the goose was dead couldn’t believe her luck when she noticed our vehicle pullover to help,” shared the Animal Welfare Society of South Africa.

The team wasted no time pulling off an incredible rescue effort. After warning the oncoming traffic about the goose in peril, and when all was clear, Inspector Crystal Fester made a beeline across the road to grab the goose, getting it to safety in the nick of time.

Thanks to Crystal and her team, the lucky goose is now safely in the AWS’s care and receiving treatment. Plans are underway to release it into a safe location soon, but first, a little time in the hospital featuring all the rest and relaxation.

Sources: Animal Welfare Society of South Africa 

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 & 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 & hear their incredible stories:

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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