Pug life: Woman has rescued more than 2,500 of the lovable 'clowns of the dog world'

JOHANNESBURG -- Pugs bring joy, laughter, and a lot of shedding. Cheryl Gaw, who has rescued over 2,500 pugs in South Africa, knows this firsthand. After selling their house and living in a trailer, Gaw and her husband dedicated their lives to helping dogs in need. They founded Pug Rescue South Africa in 2010 in response to an overwhelming number of dogs requiring assistance, which Gaw admits was not part of their retirement plan.

Currently, the rescue center houses nearly 200 pugs, coming from various unfortunate situations such as abandonment, illness, or owners unable to care for them. Gaw's journey began in 2008 with a pug gifted by her husband, leading to a rapid increase in the number of pugs they fostered. Within the first year, they offered temporary homes to 60 pugs, sometimes having as many as 19 in their home concurrently.

Life at the rescue center operates on a strict schedule. Each morning starts at 5:15 a.m. with pugs waking up, followed by breakfast, medication, playtime, and grooming. The staff works tirelessly to maintain order among the energetic canines, although occasional fights do break out, indicating the challenges of managing such a large group of dogs. Veterinary expenses for the center are significant, approaching $40,000 annually, highlighting the continuous need for rescue and rehabilitation.

Health issues are common among pugs due to their distinctive short muzzles, which can lead to breathing difficulties and other ailments. Gaw cautions prospective owners about the potential veterinary costs and emphasizes the importance of obtaining comprehensive pet insurance. Many pugs find their way to the Gaw family because their previous owners can no longer afford necessary medical care.

Hair loss is another major consideration for pug owners; Gaw notes that pugs shed excessively, making it important for future adopters to be prepared for the fur that will invariably become part of their lives. Despite the challenges, Gaw describes pugs as lovable companions who offer endless entertainment and warmth, embodying the spirit of resilience that defines her charity work.