Pug Life: Woman Has Rescued More Than 2,500 of the Lovable ‘Clowns of the Dog World’
A Life Dedicated to Pugs
For Cheryl Gaw, life has become a whirlwind of fur, snorts, and unconditional love. Over the years, she has rescued more than 2,500 pugs in South Africa—an extraordinary mission that began with a simple act of kindness.
Alongside her husband, Malcolm, Cheryl made a life-changing decision to dedicate themselves entirely to these lovable dogs. They even sold their house and lived in a trailer home to accommodate the ever-growing number of pugs in need.
Eventually, their home was simply overflowing with rescued pups, leading them to establish Pug Rescue South Africa in Johannesburg in 2010.
“Of course, the pugs won,” Cheryl jokes, reflecting on their unexpected journey.
The Sanctuary for Pugs in Need
Today, the rescue center is home to nearly 200 pugs, each with a story of hardship. Some were abandoned, others were surrendered by owners unable to handle the vet costs, and many arrived in poor health, suffering from breathing problems, infections, and other medical conditions common to the breed.
Caring for these dogs is no small feat.
Every day follows a strict routine, ensuring each pug receives the love, medical attention, and socialization they need:
✔ 5:15 AM – Wake-up time, pugs emerge from their cottages (grouped by age and personality).
✔ Morning Meal & Medication – Those requiring treatment get their doses.
✔ Grooming & Playtime – Hair everywhere, but plenty of fun.
✔ Midday Snacks & Rest – A well-earned break before more activity.
✔ Evening Meal & Medication – Time to wind down.
✔ 6:00 – 7:00 PM – Pugs return to their cottages for the night.
With over $40,000 in vet bills annually, running the rescue is a never-ending commitment, but Cheryl and her team wouldn’t have it any other way.
“The operation doesn’t stop,” she says.
How One Gift Led to 2,500 Rescued Pugs
Cheryl’s pug-filled life started in 2008 when Malcolm gifted her a pug.
Soon after, they attended a pug club meeting, where they were asked if they’d be interested in fostering “a couple” of pugs. They agreed, but within the first year alone, they had provided shelter for 60 pugs—sometimes housing up to 19 at a time.
“They are known as the clowns of the dog world, and they can make you laugh,” Cheryl explains. “Always in your space. They’re just an amazing, lovable breed. And you always have hair on you.”
That endless shedding is a small price to pay for the unmatched companionship pugs offer, but Cheryl warns prospective owners:
✔ Expect medical expenses – Their short muzzles make them prone to breathing issues, ear infections, and eye conditions.
✔ Get pet insurance – Vet bills can add up quickly.
✔ Prepare for hair—lots of hair – No amount of brushing will stop it!
Despite their health challenges, Cheryl believes pugs are worth every effort, and she’s determined to help as many as possible.
A Mission That Never Ends
From a single rescue to thousands, Cheryl and her husband changed their lives completely to create a safe haven for pugs.
The work never stops, and new pugs arrive all the time, but for Cheryl, it’s a labor of love.
Her mission is simple: rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome—one pug at a time.
Watch the incredible story of Pug Rescue South Africa in the video below!
Watch how one woman dedicated her life to rescuing over 2,500 pugs.
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