Petshop Science and Montego Pet Nutrition lead nationwide campaign supporting animal shelters across South Africa
South Africa has secured a new Guinness World Record after collecting the largest donation of pet food within a 24-hour period, surpassing the previous global benchmark by a wide margin and drawing national attention to animal welfare efforts across the country.
The record-breaking campaign took place during the annual Bloemfontein Show through a partnership between Petshop Science and Montego Pet Nutrition. Organisers gathered an extraordinary 67,200 kilograms of pet food between May 1 and May 2, far exceeding the previous Guinness World Record of 36,750 kilograms set in the United States in 2023.
Guinness World Records officials monitored the initiative throughout the entire 24-hour period to verify every donation and ensure transparency during the counting process. The drive began at 5:00 p.m. on Friday and concluded at the same time on Saturday.
Held at one of South Africa’s most recognised agricultural and entertainment events, the campaign attracted thousands of supporters, including pet owners, families, and animal welfare advocates. Organisers said the overwhelming public response demonstrated the growing awareness surrounding animal rescue efforts and the urgent need for support at shelters nationwide.
The donated food will benefit eight registered animal welfare organisations in the Free State province, while additional supplies will be distributed to shelters in other parts of South Africa. Company leaders stressed that the initiative’s humanitarian impact carried greater importance than the world record itself.
“The achievement reflects what happens when communities unite for a cause,” said Trevor Paxton, General Manager of Petshop Science. He added that the true significance of the campaign lies in the assistance provided to vulnerable animals and struggling rescue organisations across the country.
Montego Pet Nutrition Managing Director Johan van Jaarsveld echoed that message, saying the collaboration helped shine a spotlight on rescue groups that continue operating under difficult financial and logistical conditions. “The commitment continues beyond the record itself,” he said.
Beyond the Guinness achievement, Petshop Science said it donated approximately R3.3 million worth of pet food and accessories to 35 animal welfare organisations during the past financial year. Since launching in 2021, the retailer has expanded rapidly to 174 stores across all nine provinces of South Africa, including through its partnership with Checkers Sixty60.
Founded by the Shoprite Group, Petshop Science has positioned itself as a growing force in affordable pet care and nutrition. The company offers private-label dog and cat food developed with balanced nutrition and natural ingredients, while also emphasizing environmental sustainability through locally produced products packaged in recyclable bags.
In late 2025, the company introduced an upgraded pet food range developed alongside veterinarians and animal nutritionists. The product line includes formulas tailored for puppies, adult and senior dogs, large breeds, kittens, and adult cats, with a focus on long-term health through dietary fibre, prebiotics, and probiotics.
As South Africa celebrates the new world record, organisers say the broader mission remains unchanged: improving animal welfare and making quality pet nutrition more accessible to households nationwide.
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