- South Africa’s first Museum of Dogs, founded by Karel Van der Vyver, showcases heartwarming stories of the profound impact dogs have on their owners’ lives.
- The museum, located in a historic building in Cape Town, features exhibits that highlight the emotional and historical significance of dogs.
- Visitors can explore personal stories, historical insights, and even listen to songs about dogs, making it a unique tribute to man’s best friend.
An ultrasound with the caption, “My dog kept me alive after my third miscarriage” is just one of 25 stories that can be found on display at the country’s first Museum of Dogs.
This unique establishment is based in a 350-year-old historical building at 95 Keerom Street in the City Bowl.
The minute someone sets foot through the door, they are taken on a journey and soon become aware of why dogs are considered, ‘man’s best friend’.
Karel Van der Vyver, the founder of the museum, explains that he got the idea five years ago when his aunt was diagnosed with cancer.
“She also worried about what was going to happen to the dogs when she died. This made me think about the impact dogs have on people’s lives.”
Research
Van der Vyver says for the past five years, he did his research and even did a few internships at museums. “I loved listening to people’s stories. I started collecting stories. I was also finishing my law degree.”
He had to complete his law articles but decided to take a bite at starting a dog museum instead. And as they say, anything is possible if you believe.
Because on Friday 2 August the museum opened its doors.
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Van der Vyver says he appealed on social media for people to send interesting tales about their dogs.
These stories are now displayed on the museum’s first floor where dog owners share their tales of their fur babies.
One would not necessarily expect to find a wedding gown in a dog museum. But apparently, dogs are marriage counsellors too, according to an Irish couple that is.
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The divorced couple remarried and fell in love again thanks to their dogs. They had joint custody of their dogs, and the back-and-forth visits led to them deciding to give their marriage another chance.
“Some love stories just need a dog to keep them going,” reads part of the caption attached to the wedding dress.
According to Van der Vyver, people can still submit their dog tales on their website.
The museum gives patrons a glimpse into the history of dogs in South Africa, a photography exhibition and for the music enthusiasts there is even a section to listen to songs about dogs.
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Van der Vyver says he reached out to the Whitehouse Historical Association in the United States of America (USA) which sent him photos of dogs who lived in the Whitehouse.
According to Van der Vyver, this is the first museum of its kind in the country. He explains that a similar facility exists in New York.
Dog-friendly
He explains that he still can’t believe that his dream came to fruition.
“I still have to pinch myself sometimes. It is exciting to have people visit. I am grateful to everyone for all the support. It’s been wonderful to see so many families come here.”
He says it is a dog-friendly facility as long as they are on their leash and well-trained.
“I think it will work better for smaller dogs but if you are confident your dog will be able to manage all of it then they are more than welcome. A relationship with your dog is probably the most unique relationship because it’s a constant.”
- The facility is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 17:00 and costs R100 for adults. Children under 16 pay R50 while children under 10 enter free.
