Painted Dog Conservation
Painted Dog Conservation (PDC), based just outside Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe, is led by Peter Blinston and a dedicated local team working to protect one of Africa’s most endangered predators — the painted dog.
Their work goes far beyond conservation alone. PDC combines anti-poaching efforts, painted dog monitoring, rehabilitation, and community education to create long-term protection for the species. As a non-profit organisation, they rely heavily on external funding and public support to continue this vital work.
On the ground, their operations are extensive. Rangers patrol the bush removing snares and tracking poachers. Specialist trackers monitor painted dog packs daily, ensuring their health and safety. A fully equipped rehabilitation centre treats injured animals, while education programmes and community initiatives work to change perceptions and build coexistence.
Changing Perceptions Through Education
A major challenge for painted dogs is misunderstanding. Many communities see them as dangerous, indiscriminate hunters — despite there being no recorded instance of a painted dog attacking a human.
PDC tackles this through education, most notably at the Wilson Nsimango Children’s Bush Camp. Each year, around 1,000 children aged 11–12 attend four-day courses, learning about wildlife, conservation, and the importance of protecting their natural heritage. Local children attend free.
One former student, Belinda, returned home after attending the camp and found a kudu caught in a snare. She persuaded her family not only to release the animal but to track down the poacher responsible. 12 Years later, she joined PDC and is now their Head Female Ranger — a powerful example of how education creates lasting impact.
Experience & People
Hari and I were joined on the leg of our journey from Maun in Botswana via the Caprivi Strip in Namibia to Vic Falls and then to PDC by Shari Thompson, a photographer and videographer from South Africa who had reached out to join the journey and build her portfolio. PDC provided the perfect setting, and the images you see here that stand out for the quality — are Shari’s work, as are others on this site.
We were welcomed warmly by Maria Njamba, who runs the visitor centre and gave us a tour of the centre and told us the story of a real dog depicted on the walls by pictures and text. We stayed at the, temporarily, empty childrens bush camp and during our time there, we met many of the team whose passion and commitment drive PDC forward.
Ronnie Sibanda, responsible for marketing, shared the wider story of the organisation and helped guide our content. Agnes Ncube, who oversees the Iganyana Arts Centre, and Ganizani Phiri, Education Officer, brought insight, humour, and energy to our visit. We also spent time at the rehab centre where injured dogs are treated and convalesce before being reunited with their pack.
Out in the field, we joined tracker Jealous Mpofu, whose deep knowledge of the dogs is remarkable. Through his tracking, we were fortunate enough to find the Nkoto pack — 23 dogs including adults and pups — resting, playing, and feeding after a successful hunt. An unforgettable experience.
On our last day a new group of children had arrived and we were privileged to spend some time with them over the lunch period. They were all eager and interested and clearly enjoying themselves.
Why This Matters
Painted dogs are among Africa’s most endangered carnivores. Originally roaming 34 countries they can now be found in only 7. Without organisations like PDC — and the people behind them — their future would be uncertain.
By supporting PDC, you are not only protecting a species, but also helping to educate the next generation, empower local communities, and create sustainable conservation solutions from within.
Learn More & Support Their Work
If you’d like to learn more about Painted Dog Conservation, or support the incredible work they are doing on the ground, you can visit their website and donate directly.
