Alberton man rescues stray dog, takes it to safety

After a long day at work, most people just want to get home. But for Azula Jemis, his journey home took a different turn when he came across a small cream-coloured Chihuahua wandering near traffic lights in Alberton.

Jemis did not hesitate. He picked up the dog and took it home for the night.

“I thought maybe the dog was hungry, so I made soup and pap, and gave it something to eat. I even gave it a place to sleep. It did not want the basket, though; it came onto the bed. But it was not a problem. I let it sleep next to me,” said Jemis.

The next morning, Jemis walked the dog to the Alberton SPC, where he filled in a form and hoped for the best.

Staff told him they would keep the dog in the pound for seven days in case the owner came forward.

Fortunately, the owners were found and collected their dog. It was healthy, safe, and showed no signs of neglect.
Grateful to Jemis’ actions, the owners left him a small reward.

Despite this being his first time rescuing an animal, Jemis said it was empathy that drove him to act.

“I just thought the owners must be crying somewhere. It is like losing a baby. I could not just leave it.”

He affectionately called the dog “Puppy” during their short time together and ensured it was well cared for before parting ways.

Although he grew up around animals in the Eastern Cape, Jemis does not have any pets. He said it is because he works long hours and would not be able to give a pet the care it needs.

“I was happy to help, but I know a dog is a big responsibility. It is not just about wanting one, it is about making sure it is safe and fed when you are not there,” he said.

Jemis hopes more people will choose compassion when they come across animals in need.

“If you see a dog on the street, do not sell it and do not ignore it. Try to help. It might belong to someone who is still looking.”