According to Dogtown South Africa, the International Companion Animal Welfare Conference serves as a hub for animal welfare experts, advocates and stakeholders worldwide.

Dogtown South Africa's victory at ICAWC 2023 stands as a triumph for South African animal welfare on the global stage, says the organisation. Tracy McQuarrie's visionary leadership and commitment have elevated the profile of Dogtown South Africa, showcasing the transformative impact achievable in shelters.

McQuarrie's recognition is a testament to her ground-breaking contributions to the welfare and rehabilitation of shelter animals through Dogtown South Africa, the organisation adds. 

Dogtown South Africa says McQuarrie's dynamic talk, titled 'From Stress to Success: Transforming Shelter Dogs Through Behaviour Rehabilitation and Enrichment' addressed the critical need for affordable and practical enrichment techniques in resource-limited environments, spotlighting Dogtown South Africa's innovative approach in the context of South Africa's unique challenges. 

In her presentation, McQuarrie shed light on practical, cost-effective enrichment techniques uniquely tailored for shelters, focusing on resource-limited environments such as South Africa. Her message resonated deeply, emphasising the pivotal role of crafting personalised enrichment plans that cater to each shelter dog's distinctive background and challenges, adds Dogtown South Africa.  

The organisation says McQuarrie brought her presentation to life with heart-warming success stories from her own shelter. These narratives vividly demonstrated the profound transformations that shelters can achieve through dedication and ingenuity, even when faced with budget constraints. 

This recognition is a testament to McQuarrie's steadfast dedication to the welfare and rehabilitation of shelter animals, adds the organisation. Notably, her commitment is further underscored by creating the Barking Lot monthly Lottery — a fundraising initiative designed exclusively to support shelters throughout South Africa. 

McQuarrie was the sole South African attendee and reflects on the impact her talk has had on the worldwide community. 

"It was an honour to be invited to present the work Dogtown South Africa does on a world stage. Networking with leaders in Animal Welfare from across the globe was an incredible experience," McQuarrie says. 

McQuarrie's work at Dogtown South Africa serves as an inspiration for shelters worldwide, emphasising the significance of providing mental and physical stimulation to enhance the overall well-being and rehabilitation of shelter animals. Through her learnings and change-making efforts, McQuarrie has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the field of companion animal welfare, says Dogtown South Africa. 

"Every year, thousands of precious dogs lose their homes and their lives. With your help, Dogtown can save more lives and provide the best care for the abandoned and abused while we search for loving families that will give them their happy ever after," concludes Dogtown South Africa. 

To find out how to donate, visit Dogtown South Africa's website. 

For more information, visit www.dogtownsa.org. You can also follow Dogtown South Africa on Facebook, X or on Instagram.