A PLACE OF HOPE AND HEALING

Damaged people and abused dogs find a safe haven and a chance to start again at this farm in the Cape Winelands

- PIETER VAN ZYL

THE dogs on this farm are the picture of happiness, wagging their tails, jumping joyfully, barking with unbridled delight. They’re so full of life it’s almost impossible to imagine the horrors they were once subjected to.

Berry, an eight-year-old Jack Russell mix, was so abused he was close to death and vultures had begun to peck at him.

Pit bull Grace (9) was used as bait for dog fights and her past is written in a network of scars across her face.

Three-year-old Samantha was nursing her month-old puppies when someone threw acid at her.

These dogs bear the wounds of unthinkable cruelty – but things are very different now. They’re living their best lives at Roscan Sanctum farm near De Doorns in the Hex River Valley, looked after by 14 people who are here to heal themselves too.

Rules are strict here. No alcohol or drugs are allowed and everyone has to pitch in and do their bit.

Roscan Sanctum is both a safe haven for people who need a new start and a “retirement home” for animals rescued from dire circumstances. People share their space with the dogs and a variety of other animals, including sheep, pigs, geese, ducks, chickens and a turkey.

The 48-hectare farm is divided into three camps – an outdoor area for some of the animals, a farmstead and five Wendy houses for people and indoor dogs and a woodworking workshop and greenhouse. There’s also a pet cemetery where the animals are laid to rest when their time comes and little crosses bear the names of departed furry friends such as Oupa, Bekkie, Coco, King and Tripp.