AWS PE was founded in 1971 as a result of the difficulty that the municipality in Port Elizabeth was experiencing in coping adequately with the number of stray animals and cruelty cases in the city.

Our catteries and kennels house stray and surrendered pets who are available for adoption. 
We accept all animals brought to us, and run a 24-hour service to deal with the many cases of cruelty and neglect which are reported to us. Our animal crematorium is a much needed facility in the city and directly benefits the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality in terms of reducing landfill costs.

Our staff complement of 35 staff members, includes two full-time inspectors as well as a qualified veterinarian and we are privileged to enjoy the help of many volunteers.

As a registered NPO, AWS PE accepts the “Codes of Good Practice for South African Non-profit Organisations” as recommended by the Department of Social Development. We run monthly Executive Committee meetings and we are in possession of a current Tax Clearance Certificate, audited financials, Annual General Meeting Minutes and our NPO status is in good standing.