Become Part of a Trusted Animal Welfare Network in KZN
DAWN unites registered animal welfare organisations to improve lives, ensure compliance, and advocate for change.
Join the DAWN Network Today
Strengthen your impact. Connect with like‑minded organisations and professionals. Help build a more ethical, collaborative, and effective animal welfare ecosystem.
Why Join DAWN?
Becoming a member of Durban Animal Welfare Network (DAWN) means standing for accountability, ethics, and compassion in every aspect of your operations. If your organisation is committed to the Five Freedoms, complies with the Animals Protection Act, and actively supports sterilisation, education, and cruelty prevention—then DAWN is for you.
The Five Freedoms
Freedom from Hunger and Thirst
Ensuring animals have access to fresh water and a diet that maintains their health and vigour.
Freedom from Discomfort
Providing an appropriate environment, including shelter and a comfortable resting area
Freedom from Pain, Injury, or Disease
Preventing or rapidly diagnosing and treating any illnesses or injuries.
Freedom to Express Normal Behaviour
Providing sufficient space, proper facilities, and the company of the animal’s own kind.
Freedom from Fear and Distress
Ensuring conditions and treatment that avoid mental suffering.
Who Can Apply?
Membership is not automatic and is available to organisations registered as:
- Non-Profit Organisations (NPOs)
- Non-Profit Companies (NPCs)
- Trusts or Foundations involved in animal welfare
We also welcome:
- Licensed veterinary service providers
- Animal transporters
- Educators and trainers
- Animal rescue or rehab practitioners
- Environmental conservation projects working with animals
Note: We do not accept applications from any entity engaged in commercial or private breeding of animals for trade (including exotic or wild species).
Membership Responsibilities
DAWN members must adhere to our Constitution and our comprehensive Code of Conduct and Standards. Key responsibilities include:
Minimum Member Expectations
- Sterilising all animals before adoption or at age-appropriate intervals
- Conducting home checks prior to adoption
- Committing to zero tolerance for cruelty, neglect, or substandard housing
- Responding to public complaints in a transparent, ethical manner
- Supporting DAWN policies and group-wide campaigns
Step-by-Step: How to Join DAWN
Membership Process Overview
- Submit an application Email your request and NPO/NPC/Trust registration to the Secretary
- Give a short pitch Present your work briefly at a general meeting of DAWN members
- Member vote Existing members vote (75% approval required)
- Documentation Submit full legal registration documents within one month
- Inspection If you operate a shelter, a DAWN-recognised inspector will evaluate your premises
What You’ll Need to Provide
Before you apply, please ensure you’re ready to provide the following:
- Proof of NPO/NPC/Trust/Foundation status
- Contact details of your board/committee (including WhatsApp & email)
- Evidence of current sterilisation policies
- Adoption agreement templates
- Details of any kennels or foster networks
- A statement of commitment to DAWN’s mission
After You Join: What’s Next?
Once you become a member, you will:
- Be added to our official WhatsApp communication group
- Receive access to shared tools, reports, and resource templates
- Be eligible for joint clinics, inspections, and legal advocacy support
- Appear on our public-facing Members Directory
Are You Ready to Make a Difference?
When we work together, we can end the cycle of abuse, neglect, and overpopulation. But we need unified action and shared accountability.
Let’s raise the standard of animal welfare in KZN—one organisation, one animal, one action at a time.